The Future of Targeted Cell Therapy
As we age, our bodies undergo numerous changes that can lead to a decline in physical and cognitive function. One of the main drivers of these changes is the accumulation of senescent cells in our tissues. Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing but remain active and can contribute to the aging process by secreting harmful substances that cause inflammation and damage to surrounding tissue. Imagine them as Zombie-cells 🧟♀️
Recently, a new class of drugs called senolytics has emerged that aims to target and eliminate these senescent cells, potentially slowing down the aging process and reducing age-related diseases.
One of the most remarkable scientists in the field of senolytics is Dr. James Kirkland of the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Kirkland has been studying the effects of senescent cells on aging for over a decade and was one of the first researchers to propose the use of senolytics as a way to combat age-related diseases. His groundbreaking research has shown that senolytics can improve healthspan and lifespan in animal models, and has paved the way for human clinical trials of these drugs.
NORMAL CELLS SENESCENT CELLS
β-Galactosidase staining detects expression of pH-dependent β-galactosidase activity (cells stained in blue), a known characteristic of senescent cells.
Studies on senolytics have shown promising results in both animal models and humans. In a study published in the journal Nature Medicine in 2015, researchers showed that the senolytic drug dasatinib and quercetin could extend the lifespan of mice by 36%. Another study published in the journal Science in 2019 showed that senolytic treatment improved physical function and reduced senescent cell burden in humans with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease that is associated with aging.
One of the most well-known brands in the senolytics space is Unity Biotechnology. Unity is a biotech company that is focused on developing drugs that target senescent cells to treat age-related diseases. The company has several senolytic drugs in development, including UBX0101, which is being tested for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Unity's innovative approach to anti-aging has garnered attention from investors and has helped to fuel interest in senolytics as a potential new class of drugs.
Senolytics have the potential to revolutionize the way we approach aging and age-related diseases. By targeting senescent cells, these drugs may be able to slow down the aging process and improve healthspan, leading to a longer and healthier life.
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