Cellular senescence is a state of stable cell cycle arrest where cells cease dividing but remain metabolically active, secreting a complex mixture of pro-inflammatory molecules known as the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP). This biological program serves as a tumor-suppressive mechanism in youth but accumulates with age, contributing significantly to tissue dysfunction and the aging process. Managing the burden of senescent cells is a key focus in modern longevity research.
Origin
The phenomenon was first observed in the early 1960s by Leonard Hayflick, who noted that normal human cells in culture have a finite capacity to divide, a limit now known as the Hayflick limit. Senescence is derived from the Latin word senex, meaning “old man,” accurately reflecting its association with biological aging.
Mechanism
Senescence is typically triggered by telomere shortening, DNA damage, or oncogenic stress, activating cell cycle inhibitors like p53 and p16. The arrested cell develops a distinct morphology and begins secreting the SASP, which includes cytokines, chemokines, and proteases. These secreted factors can promote chronic low-grade inflammation in surrounding tissue and even induce senescence in neighboring healthy cells, perpetuating systemic aging.
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