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Liu Y, Sheng Z, Sun L. Exosomes derived from hTERT-immortalized cells delay cellular senescence of human fibroblasts. Exp Gerontol 2024; 194:112508. [PMID: 38986855 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2024.112508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
hTERT gene therapies hold significant promise for treating age-related diseases. However, further research is required to address the challenges of delivery and ethical considerations. We hypothesized that exosomes derived from hTERT-immortalized cells could function similarly to hTERT gene therapies by maintaining telomere length and attenuating cellular senescence biomarkers. In this study, we overexpressed the hTERT gene in Human Foreskin Fibroblast-1 cells (HFF cells) to produce hTERT-immortalized HFF cells (hT-HFF cells). We then used exosomes derived from these hT-HFF cells to treat human fibroblasts, HFF cells. Our results demonstrated that these exosomes effectively attenuated biomarkers of cellular senescence in HFF cells. Furthermore, analysis revealed that hTERT mRNA was indeed packaged into the exosomes from hT-HFF cells. This mRNA was capable of elongating telomeres and delaying cellular senescence in HFF cells. Therefore, exosomes from hT-HFF cells show potential as a treatment for age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhaoying Sheng
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Linlin Sun
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China.
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2
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Banda A, Impomeni O, Singh A, Baloch AR, Hu W, Jaijyan DK. Precision in Action: The Role of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas in Gene Therapies. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:636. [PMID: 38932365 PMCID: PMC11209408 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12060636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat (CRISPR)-associated enzyme-CAS holds great promise for treating many uncured human diseases and illnesses by precisely correcting harmful point mutations and disrupting disease-causing genes. The recent Food and Drug Association (FDA) approval of the first CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell anemia marks the beginning of a new era in gene editing. However, delivering CRISPR specifically into diseased cells in vivo is a significant challenge and an area of intense research. The identification of new CRISPR/Cas variants, particularly ultra-compact CAS systems with robust gene editing activities, paves the way for the low-capacity delivery vectors to be used in gene therapies. CRISPR/Cas technology has evolved beyond editing DNA to cover a wide spectrum of functionalities, including RNA targeting, disease diagnosis, transcriptional/epigenetic regulation, chromatin imaging, high-throughput screening, and new disease modeling. CRISPR/Cas can be used to engineer B-cells to produce potent antibodies for more effective vaccines and enhance CAR T-cells for the more precise and efficient targeting of tumor cells. However, CRISPR/Cas technology has challenges, including off-target effects, toxicity, immune responses, and inadequate tissue-specific delivery. Overcoming these challenges necessitates the development of a more effective and specific CRISPR/Cas delivery system. This entails strategically utilizing specific gRNAs in conjunction with robust CRISPR/Cas variants to mitigate off-target effects. This review seeks to delve into the intricacies of the CRISPR/Cas mechanism, explore progress in gene therapies, evaluate gene delivery systems, highlight limitations, outline necessary precautions, and scrutinize the ethical considerations associated with its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrutha Banda
- Department of Biology, The College of New Jersey, Ewing Township, NJ 08618, USA
| | - Olivia Impomeni
- Department of Biology, The College of New Jersey, Ewing Township, NJ 08618, USA
| | - Aparana Singh
- Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology Agartala, Agartala 799046, India;
| | - Abdul Rasheed Baloch
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | - Wenhui Hu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | - Dabbu Kumar Jaijyan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
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Vedunova M, Borysova O, Kozlov G, Zharova AM, Morgunov I, Moskalev A. Candidate molecular targets uncovered in mouse lifespan extension studies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:513-528. [PMID: 38656034 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2346597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple interventions have demonstrated an increase in mouse lifespan. However, non-standardized controls, sex or strain-specific factors, and insufficient focus on targets, hinder the translation of these findings into clinical applications. AREAS COVERED We examined the effects of genetic and drug-based interventions on mice from databases DrugAge, GenAge, the Mouse Phenome Database, and publications from PubMed that led to a lifespan extension of more than 10%, identifying specific molecular targets that were manipulated to achieve the maximum lifespan in mice. Subsequently, we characterized 10 molecular targets influenced by these interventions, with particular attention given to clinical trials and potential indications for each. EXPERT OPINION To increase the translational potential of mice life-extension studies to clinical research several factors are crucial: standardization of mice lifespan research approaches, the development of clear criteria for control and experimental groups, the establishment of criteria for potential geroprotectors, and focusing on targets and their clinical application. Pinpointing the targets affected by geroprotectors helps in understanding species-specific differences and identifying potential side effects, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of clinical trials. Additionally, target review facilitates the optimization of treatment protocols and the evaluation of the clinical feasibility of translating research findings into practical therapies for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vedunova
- Institute of Biomedicine, Institute of Biogerontology, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod (Lobachevsky University), Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | | | - Grigory Kozlov
- Institute of Biomedicine, Institute of Biogerontology, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod (Lobachevsky University), Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Anna-Maria Zharova
- Institute of Biomedicine, Institute of Biogerontology, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod (Lobachevsky University), Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | | | - Alexey Moskalev
- Institute of Biomedicine, Institute of Biogerontology, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod (Lobachevsky University), Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Longaevus Technologies LTD, London, United Kingdom
- Russian Gerontology Research and Clinical Centre, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Lewis CJ, de Grey AD. Combining rejuvenation interventions in rodents: a milestone in biomedical gerontology whose time has come. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:501-511. [PMID: 38477630 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2330425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Longevity research has matured to the point where significantly postponing age-related decline in physical and mental function is now achievable in the laboratory and foreseeable in the clinic. The most promising strategies involve rejuvenation, i.e. reducing biological age, not merely slowing its progression. AREAS COVERED We discuss therapeutic strategies for rejuvenation and results achieved thus far, with a focus on in vivo studies. We discuss the implications of interventions which act on mean or maximum lifespan and those showing effects in accelerated disease models. While the focus is on work conducted in mice, we also highlight notable insights in the field from studies in other model organisms. EXPERT OPINION Rejuvenation was originally proposed as easier than slowing aging because it targets initially inert changes to tissue structure and composition, rather than trying to disentangle processes that both create aging damage and maintain life. While recent studies support this hypothesis, a true test requires a panel of rejuvenation interventions targeting multiple damage categories simultaneously. Considerations of cost, profitability, and academic significance have dampened enthusiasm for such work, but it is vital. Now is the time for the field to take this key step toward the medical control of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin J Lewis
- Longevity Escape Velocity Foundation, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Hurley K, Ozaki M, Philippot Q, Galvin L, Crosby D, Kirwan M, Gill DR, Alysandratos KD, Jenkins G, Griese M, Nathan N, Borie R. A roadmap to precision treatments for familial pulmonary fibrosis. EBioMedicine 2024; 104:105135. [PMID: 38718684 PMCID: PMC11096859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) in adults and children (chILD) are a heterogeneous group of lung disorders leading to inflammation, abnormal tissue repair and scarring of the lung parenchyma often resulting in respiratory failure and death. Inherited factors directly cause, or contribute significantly to the risk of developing ILD, so called familial pulmonary fibrosis (FPF), and monogenic forms may have a poor prognosis and respond poorly to current treatments. Specific, variant-targeted or precision treatments are lacking. Clinical trials of repurposed drugs, anti-fibrotic medications and specific treatments are emerging but for many patients no interventions exist. We convened an expert working group to develop an overarching framework to address the existing research gaps in basic, translational, and clinical research and identified areas for future development of preclinical models, candidate medications and innovative clinical trials. In this Position Paper, we summarise working group discussions, recommendations, and unresolved questions concerning precision treatments for FPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Killian Hurley
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland; Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Mari Ozaki
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Education and Research Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland; Tissue Engineering Research Group, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Quentin Philippot
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PHERE, Hôpital Bichat, AP-HP, Service de Pneumologie A, Centre Constitutif du Centre de Référence des Maladies Pulmonaires Rares, FHU APOLLO, Paris, France; Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Respiratory Diseases, Inserm U1152, UFR de Médecine, Université Paris Cité, 75018, Paris, France
| | - Liam Galvin
- European Pulmonary Fibrosis Federation, Overijse, Belgium
| | | | - Mary Kirwan
- Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deborah R Gill
- UK Respiratory Gene Therapy Consortium, London, United Kingdom; Gene Medicine Research Group, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (NDCLS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Konstantinos-Dionysios Alysandratos
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Boston University and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; The Pulmonary Center and Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Gisli Jenkins
- Imperial College London, 4615, National Heart & Lung Institute, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Matthias Griese
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology, German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Nadia Nathan
- Sorbonne Université, Pediatric Pulmonology and Reference Center for Rare Lung Diseases RespiRare, Inserm U933 Laboratory of Childhood Genetic Diseases, Armand Trousseau Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Raphael Borie
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PHERE, Hôpital Bichat, AP-HP, Service de Pneumologie A, Centre Constitutif du Centre de Référence des Maladies Pulmonaires Rares, FHU APOLLO, Paris, France
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Gao Z, Santos RB, Rupert J, Van Drunen R, Yu Y, Eckel‐Mahan K, Kolonin MG. Endothelial-specific telomerase inactivation causes telomere-independent cell senescence and multi-organ dysfunction characteristic of aging. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14138. [PMID: 38475941 PMCID: PMC11296101 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
It has remained unclear how aging of endothelial cells (EC) contributes to pathophysiology of individual organs. Cell senescence results in part from inactivation of telomerase (TERT). Here, we analyzed mice with Tert knockout specifically in EC. Tert loss in EC induced transcriptional changes indicative of senescence and tissue hypoxia in EC and in other cells. We demonstrate that EC-Tert-KO mice have leaky blood vessels. The blood-brain barrier of EC-Tert-KO mice is compromised, and their cognitive function is impaired. EC-Tert-KO mice display reduced muscle endurance and decreased expression of enzymes responsible for oxidative metabolism. Our data indicate that Tert-KO EC have reduced mitochondrial content and function, which results in increased dependence on glycolysis. Consistent with this, EC-Tert-KO mice have metabolism changes indicative of increased glucose utilization. In EC-Tert-KO mice, expedited telomere attrition is observed for EC of adipose tissue (AT), while brain and skeletal muscle EC have normal telomere length but still display features of senescence. Our data indicate that the loss of Tert causes EC senescence in part through a telomere length-independent mechanism undermining mitochondrial function. We conclude that EC-Tert-KO mice is a model of expedited vascular senescence recapitulating the hallmarks aging, which can be useful for developing revitalization therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanguo Gao
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Rafael Bravo Santos
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Joseph Rupert
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Rachel Van Drunen
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Yongmei Yu
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Kristin Eckel‐Mahan
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Mikhail G. Kolonin
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular MedicineUniversity of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonTexasUSA
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Holmannova D, Borsky P, Andrys C, Kremlacek J, Fiala Z, Parova H, Rehacek V, Esterkova M, Poctova G, Maresova T, Borska L. The Influence of Metabolic Syndrome on Potential Aging Biomarkers in Participants with Metabolic Syndrome Compared to Healthy Controls. Biomedicines 2024; 12:242. [PMID: 38275413 PMCID: PMC10813522 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biological aging is a physiological process that can be altered by various factors. The presence of a chronic metabolic disease can accelerate aging and increase the risk of further chronic diseases. The aim of the study was to determine whether the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) affects levels of markers that are associated with, among other things, aging. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 169 subjects (58 with MetS, and 111 without metabolic syndrome, i.e., non-MetS) participated in the study. Levels of telomerase, GDF11/15, sirtuin 1, follistatin, NLRP3, AGEs, klotho, DNA/RNA damage, NAD+, vitamin D, and blood lipids were assessed from blood samples using specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. RESULTS Telomerase (p < 0.01), DNA/RNA damage (p < 0.006) and GDF15 (p < 0.02) were higher in MetS group compared to non-MetS group. Only vitamin D levels were higher in the non-MetS group (p < 0.0002). Differences between MetS and non-MetS persons were also detected in groups divided according to age: in under 35-year-olds and those aged 35-50 years. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that people with MetS compared to those without MetS have higher levels of some of the measured markers of biological aging. Thus, the presence of MetS may accelerate biological aging, which may be associated with an increased risk of chronic comorbidities that accompany MetS (cardiovascular, inflammatory, autoimmune, neurodegenerative, metabolic, or cancer diseases) and risk of premature death from all causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drahomira Holmannova
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
| | - Pavel Borsky
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
| | - Ctirad Andrys
- Institute of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove and Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kremlacek
- Institute of Medical Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Fiala
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
| | - Helena Parova
- Institute of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Kralove and Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Vit Rehacek
- Transfusion Department, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Esterkova
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
| | - Gabriela Poctova
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
| | - Tereza Maresova
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
| | - Lenka Borska
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Charles University, 500 03 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic (L.B.)
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Huang K, Liu X, Zhang Z, Wang T, Xu H, Li Q, Jia Y, Huang L, Kim P, Zhou X. AgeAnnoMO: a knowledgebase of multi-omics annotation for animal aging. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:D822-D834. [PMID: 37850649 PMCID: PMC10767957 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging entails gradual functional decline influenced by interconnected factors. Multiple hallmarks proposed as common and conserved underlying denominators of aging on the molecular, cellular and systemic levels across multiple species. Thus, understanding the function of aging hallmarks and their relationships across species can facilitate the translation of anti-aging drug development from model organisms to humans. Here, we built AgeAnnoMO (https://relab.xidian.edu.cn/AgeAnnoMO/#/), a knowledgebase of multi-omics annotation for animal aging. AgeAnnoMO encompasses an extensive collection of 136 datasets from eight modalities, encompassing 8596 samples from 50 representative species, making it a comprehensive resource for aging and longevity research. AgeAnnoMO characterizes multiple aging regulators across species via multi-omics data, comprehensively annotating aging-related genes, proteins, metabolites, mitochondrial genes, microbiotas and age-specific TCR and BCR sequences tied to aging hallmarks for these species and tissues. AgeAnnoMO not only facilitates a deeper and more generalizable understanding of aging mechanisms, but also provides potential insights of the specificity across tissues and species in aging process, which is important to develop the effective anti-aging interventions for diverse populations. We anticipate that AgeAnnoMO will provide a valuable resource for comprehending and integrating the conserved driving hallmarks in aging biology and identifying the targetable biomarkers for aging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Huang
- The Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics and West China Biomedical Big Data Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
- Center for Computational Systems Medicine, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Xi Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Zhaocan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Tiangang Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Haixia Xu
- The Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics and West China Biomedical Big Data Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Qingxuan Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Yuhao Jia
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Liyu Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710071, PR China
| | - Pora Kim
- Center for Computational Systems Medicine, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaobo Zhou
- Center for Computational Systems Medicine, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- School of Dentistry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Kitaeva KV, Solovyeva VV, Blatt NL, Rizvanov AA. Eternal Youth: A Comprehensive Exploration of Gene, Cellular, and Pharmacological Anti-Aging Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:643. [PMID: 38203812 PMCID: PMC10778954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The improvement of human living conditions has led to an increase in average life expectancy, creating a new social and medical problem-aging, which diminishes the overall quality of human life. The aging process of the body begins with the activation of effector signaling pathways of aging in cells, resulting in the loss of their normal functions and deleterious effects on the microenvironment. This, in turn, leads to chronic inflammation and similar transformations in neighboring cells. The cumulative retention of these senescent cells over a prolonged period results in the deterioration of tissues and organs, ultimately leading to a reduced quality of life and an elevated risk of mortality. Among the most promising methods for addressing aging and age-related illnesses are pharmacological, genetic, and cellular therapies. Elevating the activity of aging-suppressing genes, employing specific groups of native and genetically modified cells, and utilizing senolytic medications may offer the potential to delay aging and age-related ailments over the long term. This review explores strategies and advancements in the field of anti-aging therapies currently under investigation, with a particular emphasis on gene therapy involving adeno-associated vectors and cell-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina V. Kitaeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (K.V.K.); (V.V.S.); (N.L.B.)
| | - Valeriya V. Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (K.V.K.); (V.V.S.); (N.L.B.)
| | - Nataliya L. Blatt
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (K.V.K.); (V.V.S.); (N.L.B.)
| | - Albert A. Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (K.V.K.); (V.V.S.); (N.L.B.)
- Division of Medical and Biological Sciences, Tatarstan Academy of Sciences, 420111 Kazan, Russia
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10
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Gao Z, Yu Y, Dai Y, Zhao Z, Eckel-Mahan K, Kolonin MG. Gene expression in mice with endothelium-specific telomerase knockout. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1295072. [PMID: 38161328 PMCID: PMC10755458 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1295072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhanguo Gao
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yongmei Yu
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Yulin Dai
- Center for Precision Health, Cancer Genomics Core, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, Cancer Genomics Core, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Kristin Eckel-Mahan
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mikhail G. Kolonin
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
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Wang C, Bi L, Du Y, Lu C, Zhao M, Lin X, Ding Y, Fan W. The role of telomerase in hair growth and relevant disorders: A review. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023; 22:2925-2929. [PMID: 37667425 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.15992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hair diseases may present with hair loss, hirsutism, hair melanin abnormalities and other manifestations. Hair follicles are known as mini-organs that undergo periodic remodeling, and their constant regeneration in vivo reflects interesting anti-aging functions. Telomerase prevents cellular senescence by maintaining telomere length, but its excessive proliferation in cancer cells may also induce cancer. However, the effects of telomerase in hair growth have rarely been reported. METHODS In this study, we reviewed the role of telomerase in hair growth and the effects of hair disorders through literature search and analysis. RESULTS There is growing evidence that telomerase plays an important role in maintaining hair follicle function and proliferation. Changes in telomerase levels in hair follicles have also been found in a variety of hair disorders. CONCLUSION Telomerase plays a positive role in hair growth and is expected to become a new target for the treatment of alopecia or other hair diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaofan Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingbo Bi
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yimei Du
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Changpei Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuewen Lin
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunbu Ding
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weixin Fan
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Zeng J, Jaijyan DK, Yang S, Pei S, Tang Q, Zhu H. Exploring the Potential of Cytomegalovirus-Based Vectors: A Review. Viruses 2023; 15:2043. [PMID: 37896820 PMCID: PMC10612100 DOI: 10.3390/v15102043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral vectors have emerged as powerful tools for delivering and expressing foreign genes, playing a pivotal role in gene therapy. Among these vectors, cytomegalovirus (CMV) stands out as a promising viral vector due to its distinctive attributes including large packaging capacity, ability to achieve superinfection, broad host range, capacity to induce CD8+ T cell responses, lack of integration into the host genome, and other qualities that make it an appealing vector candidate. Engineered attenuated CMV strains such as Towne and AD169 that have a ~15 kb genomic DNA deletion caused by virus passage guarantee human safety. CMV's large genome enables the efficient incorporation of substantial foreign genes as demonstrated by CMV vector-based therapies for SIV, tuberculosis, cancer, malaria, aging, COVID-19, and more. CMV is capable of reinfecting hosts regardless of prior infection or immunity, making it highly suitable for multiple vector administrations. In addition to its broad cellular tropism and sustained high-level gene expression, CMV triggers robust, virus-specific CD8+ T cell responses, offering a significant advantage as a vaccine vector. To date, successful development and testing of murine CMV (MCMV) and rhesus CMV (RhCMV) vectors in animal models have demonstrated the efficacy of CMV-based vectors. These investigations have explored the potential of CMV vectors for vaccines against HIV, cancer, tuberculosis, malaria, and other infectious pathogens, as well as for other gene therapy applications. Moreover, the generation of single-cycle replication CMV vectors, produced by deleting essential genes, ensures robust safety in an immunocompromised population. The results of these studies emphasize CMV's effectiveness as a gene delivery vehicle and shed light on the future applications of a CMV vector. While challenges such as production complexities and storage limitations need to be addressed, ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between animal models and human translation continue to fuel the optimism surrounding CMV-based vectors. This review will outline the properties of CMV vectors and discuss their future applications as well as possible limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Zeng
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Dabbu Kumar Jaijyan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Shaomin Yang
- Department of Pain Medicine and Shenzhen Municipal Key Laboratory for Pain Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Shakai Pei
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Qiyi Tang
- Department of Microbiology, Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
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13
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Yu C, He S, Zhu W, Ru P, Ge X, Govindasamy K. Human cytomegalovirus in cancer: the mechanism of HCMV-induced carcinogenesis and its therapeutic potential. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1202138. [PMID: 37424781 PMCID: PMC10327488 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1202138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a well-studied herpesvirus, has been implicated in malignancies derived from breast, colorectal muscle, brain, and other cancers. Intricate host-virus interactions are responsible for the cascade of events that have the potential to result in the transformed phenotype of normal cells. The HCMV genome contains oncogenes that may initiate these types of cancers, and although the primary HCMV infection is usually asymptomatic, the virus remains in the body in a latent or persistent form. Viral reactivation causes severe health issues in immune-compromised individuals, including cancer patients, organ transplants, and AIDS patients. This review focuses on the immunologic mechanisms and molecular mechanisms of HCMV-induced carcinogenesis, methods of HCMV treatment, and other studies. Studies show that HCMV DNA and virus-specific antibodies are present in many types of cancers, implicating HCMV as an important player in cancer progression. Importantly, many clinical trials have been initiated to exploit HCMV as a therapeutic target for the treatment of cancer, particularly in immunotherapy strategies in the treatment of breast cancer and glioblastoma patients. Taken together, these findings support a link between HCMV infections and cellular growth that develops into cancer. More importantly, HCMV is the leading cause of birth defects in newborns, and infection with HCMV is responsible for abortions in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Yu
- Animal Diseases and Public Health Engineering Research Center of Henan Province, Luoyang Polytechnic, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Suna He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Wenwen Zhu
- Animal Diseases and Public Health Engineering Research Center of Henan Province, Luoyang Polytechnic, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Penghui Ru
- Animal Diseases and Public Health Engineering Research Center of Henan Province, Luoyang Polytechnic, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Xuemei Ge
- School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kavitha Govindasamy
- School of Arts and Science, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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14
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Penrice DD, Jalan-Sakrikar N, Jurk D, Passos JF, Simonetto DA. Telomere dysfunction in chronic liver disease: The link from aging. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00410. [PMID: 37102475 PMCID: PMC10848919 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D. Penrice
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nidhi Jalan-Sakrikar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Diana Jurk
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - João F. Passos
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Douglas A. Simonetto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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15
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Khalil R, Diab-Assaf M, Lemaitre JM. Emerging Therapeutic Approaches to Target the Dark Side of Senescent Cells: New Hopes to Treat Aging as a Disease and to Delay Age-Related Pathologies. Cells 2023; 12:915. [PMID: 36980256 PMCID: PMC10047596 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Life expectancy has drastically increased over the last few decades worldwide, with important social and medical burdens and costs. To stay healthy longer and to avoid chronic disease have become essential issues. Organismal aging is a complex process that involves progressive destruction of tissue functionality and loss of regenerative capacity. One of the most important aging hallmarks is cellular senescence, which is a stable state of cell cycle arrest that occurs in response to cumulated cell stresses and damages. Cellular senescence is a physiological mechanism that has both beneficial and detrimental consequences. Senescence limits tumorigenesis, lifelong tissue damage, and is involved in different biological processes, such as morphogenesis, regeneration, and wound healing. However, in the elderly, senescent cells increasingly accumulate in several organs and secrete a combination of senescence associated factors, contributing to the development of various age-related diseases, including cancer. Several studies have revealed major molecular pathways controlling the senescent phenotype, as well as the ones regulating its interactions with the immune system. Attenuating the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) or eliminating senescent cells have emerged as attractive strategies aiming to reverse or delay the onset of aging diseases. Here, we review current senotherapies designed to suppress the deleterious effect of SASP by senomorphics or to selectively kill senescent cells by "senolytics" or by immune system-based approaches. These recent investigations are promising as radical new controls of aging pathologies and associated multimorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Khalil
- IRMB, University Montpellier, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France;
| | - Mona Diab-Assaf
- Fanar Faculty of Sciences II, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon;
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Ji S, Xiong M, Chen H, Liu Y, Zhou L, Hong Y, Wang M, Wang C, Fu X, Sun X. Cellular rejuvenation: molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions for diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:116. [PMID: 36918530 PMCID: PMC10015098 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01343-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The ageing process is a systemic decline from cellular dysfunction to organ degeneration, with more predisposition to deteriorated disorders. Rejuvenation refers to giving aged cells or organisms more youthful characteristics through various techniques, such as cellular reprogramming and epigenetic regulation. The great leaps in cellular rejuvenation prove that ageing is not a one-way street, and many rejuvenative interventions have emerged to delay and even reverse the ageing process. Defining the mechanism by which roadblocks and signaling inputs influence complex ageing programs is essential for understanding and developing rejuvenative strategies. Here, we discuss the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that counteract cell rejuvenation, and the targeted cells and core mechanisms involved in this process. Then, we critically summarize the latest advances in state-of-art strategies of cellular rejuvenation. Various rejuvenation methods also provide insights for treating specific ageing-related diseases, including cellular reprogramming, the removal of senescence cells (SCs) and suppression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), metabolic manipulation, stem cells-associated therapy, dietary restriction, immune rejuvenation and heterochronic transplantation, etc. The potential applications of rejuvenation therapy also extend to cancer treatment. Finally, we analyze in detail the therapeutic opportunities and challenges of rejuvenation technology. Deciphering rejuvenation interventions will provide further insights into anti-ageing and ageing-related disease treatment in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaifei Ji
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Mingchen Xiong
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Huating Chen
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Yiqiong Liu
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Laixian Zhou
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Yiyue Hong
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Mengyang Wang
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China
| | - Chunming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China.
| | - Xiaobing Fu
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Research Center for Tissue Repair and Regeneration Affiliated to Medical Innovation Research Department and 4th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital and PLA Medical College; PLA Key Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regenerative Medicine and Beijing Key Research Laboratory of Skin Injury, Repair and Regeneration; Research Unit of Trauma Care, Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU051, Beijing, 100048, P. R. China.
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A Unified Model of Age-Related Cardiovascular Disease. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11121768. [PMID: 36552277 PMCID: PMC9775230 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite progress in biomedical technologies, cardiovascular disease remains the main cause of mortality. This is at least in part because current clinical interventions do not adequately take into account aging as a driver and are hence aimed at suboptimal targets. To achieve progress, consideration needs to be given to the role of cell aging in disease pathogenesis. We propose a model unifying the fundamental processes underlying most age-associated cardiovascular pathologies. According to this model, cell aging, leading to cell senescence, is responsible for tissue changes leading to age-related cardiovascular disease. This process, occurring due to telomerase inactivation and telomere attrition, affects all components of the cardiovascular system, including cardiomyocytes, vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, cardiac fibroblasts, and immune cells. The unified model offers insights into the relationship between upstream risk factors and downstream clinical outcomes and explains why interventions aimed at either of these components have limited success. Potential therapeutic approaches are considered based on this model. Because telomerase activity can prevent and reverse cell senescence, telomerase gene therapy is discussed as a promising intervention. Telomerase gene therapy and similar systems interventions based on the unified model are expected to be transformational in cardiovascular medicine.
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18
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The landscape of aging. SCIENCE CHINA LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:2354-2454. [PMID: 36066811 PMCID: PMC9446657 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2161-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aging is characterized by a progressive deterioration of physiological integrity, leading to impaired functional ability and ultimately increased susceptibility to death. It is a major risk factor for chronic human diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurological degeneration, and cancer. Therefore, the growing emphasis on “healthy aging” raises a series of important questions in life and social sciences. In recent years, there has been unprecedented progress in aging research, particularly the discovery that the rate of aging is at least partly controlled by evolutionarily conserved genetic pathways and biological processes. In an attempt to bring full-fledged understanding to both the aging process and age-associated diseases, we review the descriptive, conceptual, and interventive aspects of the landscape of aging composed of a number of layers at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, and organismal levels.
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