So Long Senescence

Elimination of worn out cells extends mice life span.

Senescence is the term given to cells which have stopped dividing. It is a natural process in the body but it can lead to damage. Senescent cells release molecules that can harm nearby tissues and are linked to diseases, which occur in old age, such as kidney failure. Our own body’s immune system usually does a fine job of keeping these cells in check. However, as we age, it becomes less efficient.

This week in Nature molecular biologists, Darren Baker and Jan van Deursen, have published a study investigating the role of senescent cells in ageing. Their research team, based in the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, used genetically altered rodents to carry out their experiment so that an injection with with a specific drug (a compound called AP20187) would cause their senescent cells to die.

After the injection, the genetically modified mice were found to have improved function of kidneys and hearts, when compared to a control group (of regular mice). Additionally the modified mice developed cancer at a later age and tended to explore their cages more. But the most impressive result was the fact that these mice with the senescent cells killed had their lifespans extended by 20-30%.

The next step of the study is to look for drugs that directly eliminate the senescent cells, or, at least prevent them from releasing harmful molecules. Jan van Deursen has, in fact, co-founded a company that hopes to produce such drugs.

Photo: Flickr, Global Panorama