Targeting senescent cell clearance: An approach to delay aging and age-associated disorders

Abstract

Cellular senescence is the occurrence of irreversible cell cycle arrest resulting from accumulated DNA damage and the loss of proteostasis over time. Senescent cells contribute to age-related diseases and aging itself. Therefore, the targeted elimination of senescent cells may be beneficial for long-term human health in general. In this review, we summarize three key areas of recent research into the clearance of senescent cells, including senolysis via senolytic drugs, immune-based senescent cell clearance, and neutralization of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Therapeutic strategies for the targeted clearance of senescent cells are being developed at a rapid pace, with some already undergoing clinical trials in humans. In the future, advances in the targeted clearance of senescent cells will undoubtedly yield further beneficial ways to improve human health during aging and increase human longevity.