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Cell biology

Senomorphics

DESenomorphika

Senomorphics are compounds that quiet senescent cells, rather than killing them. (They are also called senostatics.) Specifically, they tone down the harmful molecules these cells secrete into your tissues. They do it by targeting the signaling pathways that drive the SASP. Those pathways include NF-kB, mTOR, JAK/STAT, and p38 MAPK. Examples studied in the lab include rapamycin, metformin, ruxolitinib, and certain flavonoids. The aim is twofold. First, cut the chronic inflammation and tissue damage that senescent cells cause. Second, preserve any helpful roles they may play, in wound healing and tumor suppression.

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Sources

  1. Zhang L, Pitcher LE, Prahalad V, Niedernhofer LJ, Robbins PD. (2022). Targeting cellular senescence with senotherapeutics: senolytics and senomorphics. *FEBS Journal*doi:10.1111/febs.16350
  2. Mannick JB, Del Giudice G, Lattanzi M, et al.. (2014). mTOR inhibition improves immune function in the elderly. *Science Translational Medicine*doi:10.1126/scitranslmed.3009892