Senolytics

Category: mechanism

A class of drugs that selectively clear senescent cells — damaged cells that accumulate with age and secrete pro-inflammatory factors (SASP) driving tissue dysfunction.

Mechanism Detail

Senescent cells resist apoptosis through upregulated survival networks (BCL-2/BCL-XL, PI3K/AKT, p53/p21). Senolytics transiently disable these networks, allowing apoptosis. The senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) includes IL-6, IL-8, MMP3, and other factors that promote inflammation, fibrosis, and tumor growth in neighboring cells.

Clinical Status

Dasatinib + quercetin (D+Q) most studied combination. Phase II trials for multiple age-related conditions. Unity Biotechnology developing targeted senolytics. Fisetin also being tested as a senolytic.

Relevant Diseases

Relevant Therapies

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