What is the Origin of Senescence Cell Clearance?

The concept combines "senescence," referring to cellular aging and irreversible cell cycle arrest, with "clearance," denoting the removal process. This area of research is a cornerstone of geroscience, focusing on senolytics—agents that selectively induce apoptosis in these dysfunctional cells.

What is the Mechanism of Senescence Cell Clearance?

Senescent cells typically display markers that should trigger their elimination by the innate immune system, primarily through phagocytosis. When this immune surveillance fails, the cells accumulate and secrete SASP factors, including inflammatory cytokines and proteases, which disrupt the local tissue microenvironment and impair the function of adjacent healthy cells. Clearance mechanisms, whether endogenous or pharmacologically induced, work to eliminate these cells, thereby reducing chronic systemic inflammation and promoting tissue rejuvenation.

Senescence Cell Clearance ∞ Area

Senescence Cell Clearance

Meaning

A vital biological process involving the targeted removal of senescent cells, which are metabolically active but non-proliferating cells that accumulate with age and chronic disease. Senescence Cell Clearance is essential for maintaining tissue health and functional integrity because these cells secrete a pro-inflammatory cocktail of factors known as the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP). The accumulation of senescent cells is a key driver of aging and age-related hormonal and metabolic dysfunction.