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Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype

Meaning

The Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP) is a complex biological state characterized by senescent cells actively secreting a wide array of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and proteases into the surrounding tissue microenvironment. This persistent, detrimental secretome contributes significantly to chronic low-grade inflammation, often termed ‘inflammaging,’ and promotes the decline of tissue function. SASP is a critical driver of age-related pathologies and systemic endocrine disruption.