Cells in our body divide a limited number of times. When they reach that limit, they can become “senescent.” This means that the cells stop dividing and enter a kind of ‘resting state’ in response to stress or damage. This process was first discovered in cultured cells and played an important role in cancer research.
Recent studies show that these senescent cells accumulate in our tissues as we age. This accumulation strongly contributes to the signs of aging and the decline in health at old age. Therefore, modern biotechnological developments focus primarily on tackling these cells.
New therapies are being developed that can selectively remove senescent cells or alter their behavior. This can help slow or reduce age-related problems and improve quality of life in later life. Understanding this process is an important step in the quest for healthier and more vibrant aging.
These breakthroughs offer hope for future treatments aimed at extending healthspan and reducing age-related symptoms.
Source: Reason
