Stem Cells and Senescence Promising Targets for Longevity Research

As the human body ages, individual cells progressively lose their ability to complete biological functions. As cell function degrades, the human body experiences an increase in biological aging, meaning the rapid development of age-related disorders. Typically, the body has several systems that rejuvenate and regenerate cells and tissues, and new research has indicated that encouraging rejuvenation can slow biological aging. 

When rejuvenating naturally, the body usually relies upon stem cells somewhere in the stem cells. Stem cells are pluripotent, meaning they can transform into any cell in the body. Researchers can now use stem cell therapies to reintroduce young, healthy cells into a part of a patient’s body damaged by age. Researchers are also investigating methods to investigate cell senescence. 

Scientists believe that reversing senescence is key to slowing or reversing aging. A senescent cell is one that is not replicating, not dying, but progressively degrading.  As senescent cells deteriorate, their ability to perform essential functions is reduced, and the cells can produce toxins that can harm nearby tissues. 

Researchers are using cutting-edge technologies to investigate potential treatments for cell senescence. Dr. Julie K Andersen of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging believes that breakthroughs in epigenetic remodeling will be necessary before senescence can be reversed. Other scientists are investigating metabolic reprogramming as a viable path, and even more researchers believe rewiring the signals between cells is the solution. 

Stem cell and epigenetic research have granted new insights in recent years, spurring the launch of dozens of biotech companies. Stem cells have already demonstrated utility in treating loss of vision, Parkinson’s and age-related disorders. Epigeneticists continue to home in on biomarkers and cellular mechanisms and biomarkers associated with senescence, hoping one day soon to develop a viable treatment that follows the promising path of stem cell therapies.