Senescent cells can be harmful to the body from "summary" of Lifespan by David Sinclair,Matthew D. Laplante
As we age, our bodies accumulate a type of cell known as senescent cells. These cells have stopped dividing and are essentially in a state of suspended animation. While this may sound harmless, senescent cells can actually be quite harmful to our bodies. One of the main reasons senescent cells are detrimental is because they secrete a variety of molecules that can cause inflammation. This chronic inflammation can contribute to a number of age-related diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's. In addition to triggering inflammation, senescent cells can also disrupt the normal functioning of surrounding cells. Furthermore, senescent cells have been shown to contribute to the aging process itself. By accumulating in our bodies over time, these cells can impair tissue regeneration and repair, leading to a decline in overall health and function. In essence, senescent cells can act like a toxin within our bodies, slowly causing damage and dysfunction. Researchers have been exploring ways to remove senescent cells from the body in order to combat these negative effects. This approach, known as senolytic therapy, has shown promising results in animal studies, with the potential to improve healthspan and extend lifespan. By targeting and eliminating senescent cells, scientists hope to delay the onset of age-related diseases and promote overall wellness.- While senescent cells may seem innocuous at first glance, their presence in the body can have serious consequences. By understanding the harmful effects of these cells, researchers are working towards developing innovative therapies to combat aging and improve longevity.
