Metabolic regulation in the senescence process of stem cells.

Abstract

Background: Aging is an inevitable and complex biological process characterized by progressive cellular and functional deterioration, leading to increased disease susceptibility and mortality. Stem cells, endowed with unique self-renewal and multipotent differentiation capabilities, play a pivotal role in tissue homeostasis and regenerative processes. However, the aging process triggers stem cell senescence, manifested by diminished proliferative capacity and differentiation potential, ultimately compromising tissue regeneration and contributing to the pathogenesis of various age-related disorders, including neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndromes.

Main findings: Metabolic plasticity serves as a fundamental mechanism enabling stem cells to dynamically adapt their energy requirements during self-renewal and lineage commitment. Emerging evidence indicates that cellular metabolism extends beyond its conventional role in energy production, actively participating in the regulation of stem cell fate decisions. Notably, nutrient-sensitive metabolites constitute a sophisticated metabolism-epigenetic axis that integrates metabolic flux, signaling pathways, and epigenetic modifications to precisely orchestrate cellular behavior. This regulatory axis is indispensable for maintaining tissue homeostasis and facilitating regeneration, thereby positioning metabolic reprogramming as a promising therapeutic strategy for mitigating aging-associated decline.

Conclusions: In conclusion, elucidating the intricate crosstalk between stem cell metabolism and the aging process unveils novel opportunities for developing innovative anti-aging interventions and enhancing tissue repair. Future investigations should focus on the precise manipulation of metabolic pathways to effectively counteract age-related functional deterioration and promote longevity.