Cellular senescence, neuroinflammation, and microRNAs: Possible interactions driving aging and neurodegeneration in the hippocampal neurogenic niche

Abstract

Cellular senescence influences normal physiology and ageing-related diseases, including neurodegeneration. Senescent cells accumulate with age in the brain, secreting pro-inflammatory factors that promote neuroinflammation, which has been linked to disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Neurons and other brain cells such as microglia, astrocytes, and neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs), exhibit senescence in aged brains. NSPCs, essential for neurogenesis, may enter senescence due to inflammatory signals and other factors and microRNAs may regulate this process. Here we discuss senescence mechanisms, neuroinflammation, and potential therapeutic targets, proposing that modulating senescence by microRNA-mediated pathways could help combat neurodegenerative diseases.