What is the Origin of Senolytic Activation?

The term is a compound of the Latin senex (old) and the Greek lysis (to loosen or break down), formally introduced in the field of aging research to describe compounds capable of selectively clearing senescent cells. This concept emerged from the recognition that senescent cells accumulate with age and contribute significantly to tissue degeneration and age-related disease. It is a frontier in regenerative and anti-aging medicine.

What is the Mechanism of Senolytic Activation?

Senolytic agents operate by targeting the pro-survival pathways that senescent cells rely on to resist apoptosis, such as the BCL-2 family of proteins. By inhibiting these survival mechanisms, the senolytic compounds trigger the cell's intrinsic apoptotic cascade, leading to its controlled death and subsequent clearance by the immune system. This reduction in the senescent cell burden decreases the inflammatory SASP signaling, thereby restoring a healthier tissue microenvironment and supporting hormonal receptor sensitivity.

Senolytic Activation ∞ Area

Senolytic Activation

Meaning

Senolytic Activation is a therapeutic strategy focused on selectively inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in senescent cells—those cells that have ceased dividing but remain metabolically active and secrete pro-inflammatory molecules, known as the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP). The targeted elimination of these dysfunctional cells is a primary goal in longevity medicine, aiming to reduce chronic, low-grade inflammation and improve tissue function.