What is the Origin of Anti-Senescence Compounds?

The term and the underlying research emerged from cellular and molecular gerontology, where scientists identified cellular senescence as a fundamental driver of aging and pathology. Initial discoveries involved identifying small molecules capable of selectively inducing apoptosis in senescent cells. This field rapidly advanced with the understanding that clearing these dysfunctional cells could reverse aspects of tissue aging in preclinical models.

What is the Mechanism of Anti-Senescence Compounds?

Senolytic compounds function by selectively inducing programmed cell death, or apoptosis, in senescent cells by disrupting their pro-survival pathways. Conversely, senomorphic compounds modulate the SASP, altering the inflammatory secretome without necessarily killing the cell. Both mechanisms serve to mitigate the paracrine effects of senescent cells on neighboring healthy tissue, thereby reducing chronic inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration and repair throughout the body.

Anti-Senescence Compounds

Meaning

Anti-Senescence Compounds, often referred to as senolytics or senomorphics, are a class of therapeutic agents specifically designed to target and manage senescent cells within the body. Senescent cells are damaged cells that cease dividing but remain metabolically active, secreting pro-inflammatory molecules known as the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype, or SASP. These compounds are crucial tools in longevity medicine, as they aim to reduce the systemic inflammatory burden associated with age-related decline and chronic disease. The administration of these agents is a novel approach to improving tissue function and extending healthspan.