A versatile drug delivery system targeting senescent cells

Guidelines for minimal information on cellular senescence experimentation in vivo

Cellular senescence is a cell fate triggered in response to stress and is characterized by stable cell-cycle arrest and a hypersecretory state. It has diverse biological roles, ranging from tissue repair to chronic disease. The development of new tools to study senescence in vivo has paved the way for uncovering its physiological and pathological roles and testing senescent cells as a therapeutic target. However, the lack of specific and broadly applicable markers makes it difficult to identify and characterize senescent cells in tissues and living organisms. To address this, we provide practical guidelines called "minimum information for cellular senescence experimentation in vivo" (MICSE). It presents an overview of senescence markers in rodent tissues, transgenic models, non-mammalian systems, human tissues, and tumors and their use in the identification and specification of senescent cells. These guidelines provide a uniform, state-of-the-art, and accessible toolset to improve our understanding of cellular senescence in vivo.

An Indocyanine Green-Based Nanoprobe for In Vivo Detection of Cellular Senescence

There is an urgent need to improve conventional cancer-treatments by preventing detrimental side effects, cancer recurrence and metastases. Recent studies have shown that presence of senescent cells in tissues treated with chemo- or radiotherapy can be used to predict the effectiveness of cancer treatment. However, although the accumulation of senescent cells is one of the hallmarks of cancer, surprisingly little progress has been made in development of strategies for their detection in vivo. To address a lack of detection tools, we developed a biocompatible, injectable organic nanoprobe (NanoJagg), which is selectively taken up by senescent cells and accumulates in the lysosomes. The NanoJagg probe is obtained by self-assembly of indocyanine green (ICG) dimers using a scalable manufacturing process and characterized by a unique spectral signature suitable for both photoacoustic tomography (PAT) and fluorescence imaging. In vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies all indicate that NanoJaggs are a clinically translatable probe for detection of senescence and their PAT signal makes them suitable for longitudinal monitoring of the senescence burden in solid tumors after chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

β-Galactosidase-Triggered Photodynamic Elimination of Senescent Cells with a Boron Dipyrromethene-Based Photosensitizer

Senescence is a cellular response having physiological and reparative functions to preserve tissue homeostasis and suppress tumor growth. However, the accumulation of senescent cells would cause deleterious effects that lead to age-related dysfunctions and cancer progression. Hence, selective detection and elimination of senescent cells are crucial yet remain a challenge. A β-galactosidase (β-gal)-activated boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY)-based photosensitizer (compound 1) is reported here that can selectively detect and eradicate senescent cells. It contains a galactose moiety connected to a pyridinium BODIPY via a self-immolative nitrophenylene linker, of which the photoactivity is effectively quenched. Upon interactions with the senescence-associated β-gal, it undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis followed by self-immolation, leading to the release of an activated BODIPY moiety by which the fluorescence emission and singlet oxygen generation are restored. The ability of 1 to detect and eliminate senescent cells is demonstrated in vitro and in vivo, using SK-Mel-103 tumor-bearing mice treated with senescence-inducing therapy. The results demonstrate that 1 can be selectively activated in senescent cells to trigger a robust senolytic effect upon irradiation. This study breaks new ground in the design and application of new senolytic agents based on photodynamic therapy.

Remarkable enhancement of cinnamaldehyde antimicrobial activity encapsulated in capped mesoporous nanoparticles: A new "nanokiller" approach in the era of antimicrobial resistance

Combating antimicrobial resistance is one of the biggest health challenges because of the ineffectiveness of standard biocide treatments. This challenge could be approached using natural products, which have demonstrated powerful therapeutics against multidrug-resistant microbes. In the present work, a nanodevice consisting of mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with an essential oil component (cinnamaldehyde) and functionalized with the polypeptide ε-poly-l-lysine is developed and used as an antimicrobial agent. In the presence of the corresponding stimuli (i.e., exogenous proteolytic enzymes from bacteria or fungi), the polypeptide is hydrolyzed, and the cinnamaldehyde delivery is enhanced. The nanodevice's release mechanism and efficacy are evaluated in vitro against the pathogenic microorganisms Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. The results demonstrate that the new device increases the delivery of the cinnamaldehyde via a biocontrolled uncapping mechanism triggered by proteolytic enzymes. Moreover, the nanodevice notably improves the antimicrobial efficacy of cinnamaldehyde when compared to the free compound, ca. 52-fold for E. coli, ca. 60-fold for S. aureus, and ca. 7-fold for C. albicans. The enhancement of the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil component is attributed to the decrease of its volatility due to its encapsulation in the porous silica matrix and the increase of its local concentration when released due to the presence of microorganisms.

Combining rejuvenation interventions in rodents: a milestone in biomedical gerontology whose time has come

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.

Effects of senescence on the tumour microenvironment and response to therapy

Cellular senescence is a state of durable cell arrest that has been identified both in vitro and in vivo. It is associated with profound changes in gene expression and a specific secretory profile that includes pro-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors and matrix-remodelling enzymes, referred to as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). In cancer, senescence can have anti- or pro-tumour effects. On one hand, it can inhibit tumour progression in a cell autonomous manner. On the other hand, senescence can also promote tumour initiation, progression, metastatic dissemination and resistance to therapy in a paracrine manner. Therefore, despite efforts to target senescence as a potential strategy to inhibit tumour growth, senescent cancer and microenvironmental cells can eventually lead to uncontrolled proliferation and aggressive tumour phenotypes. This can happen either through overcoming senescence growth arrest or through SASP-mediated effects in adjacent tumour cells. This review will discuss how senescence affects the tumour microenvironment, including extracellular matrix remodelling, the immune system and the vascular compartment, to promote tumourigenesis, metastasis and resistance to DNA-damaging therapies. It will also discuss current approaches used in the field to target senescence: senolytics, improving the immune clearance of senescent cells and targeting the SASP.

Cellular senescence in lung cancer: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic interventions

Lung cancer stands as the primary contributor to cancer-related fatalities worldwide, affecting both genders. Two primary types exist where non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), accounts for 80-85% and SCLC accounts for 10-15% of cases. NSCLC subtypes include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Smoking, second-hand smoke, radon gas, asbestos, and other pollutants, genetic predisposition, and COPD are lung cancer risk factors. On the other hand, stresses such as DNA damage, telomere shortening, and oncogene activation cause a prolonged cell cycle halt, known as senescence. Despite its initial role as a tumor-suppressing mechanism that slows cell growth, excessive or improper control of this process can cause age-related diseases, including cancer. Cellular senescence has two purposes in lung cancer. Researchers report that senescence slows tumor growth by constraining multiplication of impaired cells. However, senescent cells also demonstrate the pro-inflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which is widely reported to promote cancer. This review will look at the role of cellular senescence in lung cancer, describe its diagnostic markers, ask about current treatments to control it, look at case studies and clinical trials that show how senescence-targeting therapies can be used in lung cancer, and talk about problems currently being faced, and possible solutions for the same in the future.

Targeting senescent cells to reshape the tumor microenvironment and improve anticancer efficacy

Cancer is daunting pathology with remarkable breadth and scope, spanning genetics, epigenetics, proteomics, metalobomics and cell biology. Cellular senescence represents a stress-induced and essentially irreversible cell fate associated with aging and various age-related diseases, including malignancies. Senescent cells are characterized of morphologic alterations and metabolic reprogramming, and develop a highly active secretome termed as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Since the first discovery, senescence has been understood as an important barrier to tumor progression, as its induction in pre-neoplastic cells limits carcinogenesis. Paradoxically, senescent cells arising in the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to tumor progression, including augmented therapeutic resistance. In this article, we define typical forms of senescent cells commonly observed within the TME and how senescent cells functionally remodel their surrounding niche, affect immune responses and promote cancer evolution. Furthermore, we highlight the recently emerging pipelines of senotherapies particularly senolytics, which can selectively deplete senescent cells from affected organs in vivo and impede tumor progression by restoring therapeutic responses and securing anticancer efficacies. Together, co-targeting cancer cells and their normal but senescent counterparts in the TME holds the potential to achieve increased therapeutic benefits and restrained disease relapse in future clinical oncology.

The potential for senotherapy as a novel approach to extend life quality in veterinary medicine

Cellular senescence, a condition where cells undergo arrest and can assume an inflammatory phenotype, has been associated with initiation and perpetuation of inflammation driving multiple disease processes in rodent models and humans. Senescent cells secrete inflammatory cytokines, proteins, and matrix metalloproteinases, termed the senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which accelerates the aging processes. In preclinical models, drug interventions termed "senotherapeutics" selectively clear senescent cells and represent a promising strategy to prevent or treat multiple age-related conditions in humans and veterinary species. In this review, we summarize the current available literature describing in vitro evidence for senotheraputic activity, preclinical models of disease, ongoing human clinical trials, and potential clinical applications in veterinary medicine. These promising data to date provide further justification for future studies identifying the most active senotherapeutic combinations, dosages, and routes of administration for use in veterinary medicine.

Selective Elimination of Senescent Cancer Cells by Galacto-Modified PROTACs

Although the selective and effective clearance of senescent cancer cells can improve cancer treatment, their development is confronted by many challenges. As part of efforts designed to overcome these problems, prodrugs, whose design is based on senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), have been developed to selectively eliminate senescent cells. However, chemotherapies relying on targeted molecular inhibitors as senolytic drugs can induce drug resistance. In the current investigation, we devised a new strategy for selective degradation of target proteins in senescent cancer cells that utilizes a prodrug composed of the SA-β-gal substrate galactose (galacto) and the proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) as senolytic agents. Prodrugs Gal-ARV-771 and Gal-MS99 were found to display senolytic indexes higher than those of ARV-771 and MS99. Significantly, results of in vivo studies utilizing a human lung A549 xenograft mouse model demonstrated that concomitant treatment with etoposide and Gal-ARV-771 leads to a significant inhibition of tumor growth without eliciting significant toxicity.

Chemical Strategies for the Detection and Elimination of Senescent Cells

Cellular senescence can be defined as an irreversible stopping of cell proliferation that arises in response to various stress signals. Cellular senescence is involved in diverse physiological and pathological processes in different tissues, exerting effects on processes as differentiated as embryogenesis, tissue repair and remodeling, cancer, aging, and tissue fibrosis. In addition, the development of some pathologies, aging, cancer, and other age-related diseases has been related to senescent cell accumulation. Due to the complexity of the senescence phenotype, targeting senescent cells is not trivial, is challenging, and is especially relevant for in vivo detection in age-related diseases and tissue samples. Despite the elimination of senescent cells (senolysis) using specific drugs (senolytics) that have been shown to be effective in numerous preclinical disease models, the clinical translation is still limited due to the off-target effects of current senolytics and associated toxicities. Therefore, the development of new chemical strategies aimed at detecting and eliminating senescent cells for the prevention and selective treatment of senescence-associated diseases is of great interest. Such strategies not only will contribute to a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving field but also will delineate and inspire new possibilities for future research.In this Account, we report our recent research in the development of new chemical approaches for the detection and elimination of senescent cells based on new probes, nanoparticles, and prodrugs. The designed systems take advantage of the over-representation in senescent cells of certain biomarkers such as β-galactosidase and lipofuscin. One- and two-photon probes, for higher tissue penetration, have been developed. Moreover, we also present a renal clearable fluorogenic probe for the in vivo detection of the β-galactosidase activity, allowing for correlation with the senescent burden in living animals. Moreover, as an alternative to molecular-based probes, we also developed nanoparticles for senescence detection. Besides, we describe advances in new therapeutic agents to selectively eradicate senescent cells using β-galactosidase activity-sensitive gated nanoparticles loaded with cytotoxic or senolytic agents or new prodrugs aiming to increase the selectivity and reduction of off-target toxicities of current drugs. Moreover, new advances therapies have been applied in vitro and in vivo. Studies with the probes, nanoparticles, and prodrugs have been applied in several in vitro and in vivo models of cancer, fibrosis, aging, and drug-induced cardiotoxicity in which senescence plays an important role. We discuss the benefits of these chemical strategies toward the development of more specific and sophisticated probes, nanoparticles, and prodrugs targeting senescent cells.

Neutrophil-activating secretome characterizes palbociclib-induced senescence of breast cancer cells

Senescent cells have a profound impact on the surrounding microenvironment through the secretion of numerous bioactive molecules and inflammatory factors. The induction of therapy-induced senescence by anticancer drugs is known, but how senescent tumor cells influence the tumor immune landscape, particularly neutrophil activity, is still unclear. In this study, we investigate the induction of cellular senescence in breast cancer cells and the subsequent immunomodulatory effects on neutrophils using the CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib, which is approved for the treatment of breast cancer and is under intense investigation for additional malignancies. Our research demonstrates that palbociclib induces a reversible form of senescence endowed with an inflammatory secretome capable of recruiting and activating neutrophils, in part through the action of interleukin-8 and acute-phase serum amyloid A1. The activation of neutrophils is accompanied by the release of neutrophil extracellular trap and the phagocytic removal of senescent tumor cells. These findings may be relevant for the success of cancer therapy as neutrophils, and neutrophil-driven inflammation can differently affect tumor progression. Our results reveal that neutrophils, as already demonstrated for macrophages and natural killer cells, can be recruited and engaged by senescent tumor cells to participate in their clearance. Understanding the interplay between senescent cells and neutrophils may lead to innovative strategies to cope with chronic or tumor-associated inflammation.

Nanocarriers for natural polyphenol senotherapeutics

Senescence is a heterogenous and dynamic process in which various cell types undergo cell-cycle arrest due to cellular stressors. While senescence has been implicated in aging and many human pathologies, therapeutic interventions remain inadequate due to the absence of a comprehensive set of biomarkers in a context-dependent manner. Polyphenols have been investigated as senotherapeutics in both preclinical and clinical settings. However, their use is hindered by limited stability, toxicity, modest bioavailability, and often inadequate concentration at target sites. To address these limitations, nanocarriers such as polymer nanoparticles and lipid vesicles can be utilized to enhance the efficacy of senolytic polyphenols. Focusing on widely studied senolytic agents-specifically fisetin, quercetin, and resveratrol-we provide concise summaries of their physical and chemical properties, along with an overview of preclinical and clinical findings. We also highlight common signaling pathways and potential toxicities associated with these agents. Addressing challenges linked to nanocarriers, we present examples of senotherapeutic delivery to various cell types, both with and without nanocarriers. Finally, continued research and development of senolytic agents and nanocarriers are encouraged to reduce the undesirable effects of senescence on different cell types and organs. This review underscores the need for establishing reliable sets of senescence biomarkers that could assist in evaluating the effectiveness of current and future senotherapeutic candidates and nanocarriers.

Cellular senescence in cancer: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets

Aging exhibits several hallmarks in common with cancer, such as cellular senescence, dysbiosis, inflammation, genomic instability, and epigenetic changes. In recent decades, research into the role of cellular senescence on tumor progression has received widespread attention. While how senescence limits the course of cancer is well established, senescence has also been found to promote certain malignant phenotypes. The tumor-promoting effect of senescence is mainly elicited by a senescence-associated secretory phenotype, which facilitates the interaction of senescent tumor cells with their surroundings. Targeting senescent cells therefore offers a promising technique for cancer therapy. Drugs that pharmacologically restore the normal function of senescent cells or eliminate them would assist in reestablishing homeostasis of cell signaling. Here, we describe cell senescence, its occurrence, phenotype, and impact on tumor biology. A "one-two-punch" therapeutic strategy in which cancer cell senescence is first induced, followed by the use of senotherapeutics for eliminating the senescent cells is introduced. The advances in the application of senotherapeutics for targeting senescent cells to assist cancer treatment are outlined, with an emphasis on drug categories, and the strategies for their screening, design, and efficient targeting. This work will foster a thorough comprehension and encourage additional research within this field.

Therapeutic strategies targeting cellular senescence for cancer and other diseases

Cellular senescence occurs in response to endogenous or exogenous stresses and is characterized by stable cell cycle arrest, alterations in nuclear morphology and secretion of proinflammatory factors, referred to as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). An increase of senescent cells is associated with the development of several types of cancer and aging-related diseases. Therefore, senolytic agents that selectively remove senescent cells may offer opportunities for developing new therapeutic strategies against such cancers and aging-related diseases. This review outlines senescence inducers and the general characteristics of senescent cells. We also discuss the involvement of senescent cells in certain cancers and diseases. Finally, we describe a series of senolytic agents and their utilization in therapeutic strategies.

Revolutionizing Diabetic Foot Ulcer Care: The Senotherapeutic Approach

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a prevalent and profoundly debilitating complication that afflicts individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM). These ulcers are associated with substantial morbidity, recurrence rates, disability, and mortality, imposing substantial economic, psychological, and medical burdens. Timely detection and intervention can mitigate the morbidity and disparities linked to DFU. Nevertheless, current therapeutic approaches for DFU continue to grapple with multifaceted limitations. A growing body of evidence emphasizes the crucial role of cellular senescence in the pathogenesis of chronic wounds. Interventions that try to delay cellular senescence, eliminate senescent cells (SnCs), or suppress the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) have shown promise for helping chronic wounds to heal. In this context, targeting cellular senescence emerges as a novel therapeutic strategy for DFU. In this comprehensive review, we look at the pathology and treatment of DFU in a systematic way. We also explain the growing importance of investigating SnCs in DFU and highlight the great potential of senotherapeutics that target SnCs in DFU treatment. The development of efficacious and safe senotherapeutics represents a pioneering therapeutic approach aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by DFU.

Chemo-Senolytic Therapeutic Potential against Angiosarcoma

Angiosarcoma is an aggressive soft-tissue sarcoma with a poor prognosis. Chemotherapy for this cancer typically employs paclitaxel, a taxane (genotoxic drug), although it has a limited effect owing to chemoresistance to prolonged treatment. In this study, we examine an alternative angiosarcoma treatment approach that combines chemotherapeutic and senolytic agents. We find that the chemotherapeutic drugs cisplatin and paclitaxel efficiently induce senescence in angiosarcoma cells. Subsequent treatment with the senolytic agent ABT-263 eliminates senescent cells by activating the apoptotic pathway. In addition, expression analysis indicates that senescence-associated secretory phenotype genes are activated in senescent angiosarcoma cells and that ABT-263 treatment downregulates IFN-I pathway genes in senescent cells. Moreover, we show that cisplatin treatment alone requires high doses to remove angiosarcoma cells. In contrast, lower doses of cisplatin are sufficient to induce senescence, followed by the elimination of senescent cells by the senolytic treatment. This study sheds light on a potential therapeutic strategy against angiosarcoma by combining a relatively low dose of cisplatin with the ABT-263 senolytic agent, which can help ease the deleterious side effects of chemotherapy.

Osteoclasts and osteoarthritis: Novel intervention targets and therapeutic potentials during aging

Osteoarthritis (OA), a chronic degenerative joint disease, is highly prevalent among the aging population, and often leads to joint pain, disability, and a diminished quality of life. Although considerable research has been conducted, the precise molecular mechanisms propelling OA pathogenesis continue to be elusive, thereby impeding the development of effective therapeutics. Notably, recent studies have revealed subchondral bone lesions precede cartilage degeneration in the early stage of OA. This development is marked by escalated osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, subsequent imbalances in bone metabolism, accelerated bone turnover, and a decrease in bone volume, thereby contributing significantly to the pathological changes. While the role of aging hallmarks in OA has been extensively elucidated from the perspective of chondrocytes, their connection with osteoclasts is not yet fully understood. There is compelling evidence to suggest that age-related abnormalities such as epigenetic alterations, proteostasis network disruption, cellular senescence, and mitochondrial dysfunction, can stimulate osteoclast activity. This review intends to systematically discuss how aging hallmarks contribute to OA pathogenesis, placing particular emphasis on the age-induced shifts in osteoclast activity. It also aims to stimulate future studies probing into the pathological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches targeting osteoclasts in OA during aging.

Network of extracellular vesicles surrounding senescent cells

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid bilayers released from cells that contain cellular components such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and metabolites. Biological information is transmitted between cells via the EV content. Cancer and senescent cells secrete more EVs than normal cells, delivering more information to the surrounding recipient cells. Cellular senescence is a state of irreversible cell cycle arrest caused by the accumulation of DNA damage. Senescent cells secrete various inflammatory proteins known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Inflammatory SASP factors, including small EVs, induce chronic inflammation and lead to various age-related pathologies. Recently, senolytic drugs that selectively induce cell death in senescent cells have been developed to suppress the pathogenesis of age-related diseases. This review describes the characteristics of senescent cells, the functions of EVs released from senescent cells, and the therapeutic effects of EVs on age-related diseases. Understanding the biology of EVs secreted from senescent cells will provide valuable insights for achieving healthy longevity in an aging society.

Preclinical evaluation of CDK4 phosphorylation predicts high sensitivity of pleural mesotheliomas to CDK4/6 inhibition

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive cancer with limited therapeutic options. We evaluated the impact of CDK4/6 inhibition by palbociclib in 28 MPM cell lines including 19 patient-derived ones, using various approaches including RNA-sequencing. Palbociclib strongly and durably inhibited the proliferation of 23 cell lines, indicating a unique sensitivity of MPM to CDK4/6 inhibition. When observed, insensitivity to palbociclib was mostly explained by the lack of active T172-phosphorylated CDK4. This was associated with high p16INK4A (CDKN2A) levels that accompany RB1 defects or inactivation, or (unexpectedly) CCNE1 overexpression in the presence of wild-type RB1. Prolonged palbociclib treatment irreversibly inhibited proliferation despite re-induction of cell cycle genes upon drug washout. A senescence-associated secretory phenotype including various potentially immunogenic components was irreversibly induced. Phosphorylated CDK4 was detected in 80% of 47 MPMs indicating their sensitivity to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Its absence in some highly proliferative MPMs was linked to very high p16 (CDKN2A) expression, which was also observed in public datasets in tumours from short-survival patients. Our study supports the evaluation of CDK4/6 inhibitors for MPM treatment, in monotherapy or combination therapy.

The senescence journey in cancer immunoediting

Cancer progression is continuously controlled by the immune system which can identify and destroy nascent tumor cells or inhibit metastatic spreading. However, the immune system and its deregulated activity in the tumor microenvironment can also promote tumor progression favoring the outgrowth of cancers capable of escaping immune control, in a process termed cancer immunoediting. This process, which has been classified into three phases, i.e. "elimination", "equilibrium" and "escape", is influenced by several cancer- and microenvironment-dependent factors. Senescence is a cellular program primed by cells in response to different pathophysiological stimuli, which is based on long-lasting cell cycle arrest and the secretion of numerous bioactive and inflammatory molecules. Because of this, cellular senescence is a potent immunomodulatory factor promptly recruiting immune cells and actively promoting tissue remodeling. In the context of cancer, these functions can lead to both cancer immunosurveillance and immunosuppression. In this review, the authors will discuss the role of senescence in cancer immunoediting, highlighting its context- and timing-dependent effects on the different three phases, describing how senescent cells promote immune cell recruitment for cancer cell elimination or sustain tumor microenvironment inflammation for immune escape. A potential contribution of senescent cells in cancer dormancy, as a mechanism of therapy resistance and cancer relapse, will be discussed with the final objective to unravel the immunotherapeutic implications of senescence modulation in cancer.

Amide Alkaloids as Privileged Sources of Senomodulators for Therapeutic Purposes in Age-Related Diseases

Nature is an important source of bioactive compounds and has continuously made a large contribution to the discovery of new drug leads. Particularly, plant-derived compounds have long been identified as highly interesting in the field of aging research and senescence. Many plants contain bioactive compounds that have the potential to influence cellular processes and provide health benefits. Among them, Piper alkaloids have emerged as interesting candidates in the context of age-related diseases and particularly senescence. These compounds have been shown to display a variety of features, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and other bioactive properties that may help counteracting the effects of cellular aging processes. In the review, we will put the emphasis on piperlongumine and other related derivatives, which belong to the Piper alkaloids, and whose senomodulating potential has emerged during the last several years. We will also provide a survey on their potential in therapeutic perspectives of age-related diseases.

Emerging role of cellular senescence in normal lung development and perinatal lung injury

Cellular senescence is a status of irreversible growth arrest, which can be triggered by the p53/p21cip1 and p16INK4/Rb pathways via intrinsic and external factors. Senescent cells are typically enlarged and flattened, and characterized by numerous molecular features. The latter consists of increased surfaceome, increased residual lysosomal activity at pH 6.0 (manifested by increased activity of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase [SA-β-gal]), senescence-associated mitochondrial dysfunction, cytoplasmic chromatin fragment, nuclear lamin b1 exclusion, telomere-associated foci, and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. These features vary depending on the stressor leading to senescence and the type of senescence. Cellular senescence plays pivotal roles in organismal aging and in the pathogenesis of aging-related diseases. Interestingly, senescence can also both promote and inhibit wound healing processes. We recently report that senescence as a programmed process contributes to normal lung development. Lung senescence is also observed in Down Syndrome, as well as in premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and in a hyperoxia-induced rodent model of this disease. Furthermore, this senescence results in neonatal lung injury. In this review, we briefly discuss the molecular features of senescence. We then focus on the emerging role of senescence in normal lung development and in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia as well as putative signaling pathways driving senescence. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic approaches targeting senescent cells to prevent perinatal lung diseases.

Prophylactic and long-lasting efficacy of senolytic CAR T cells against age-related metabolic dysfunction

Senescent cells, which accumulate in organisms over time, contribute to age-related tissue decline. Genetic ablation of senescent cells can ameliorate various age-related pathologies, including metabolic dysfunction and decreased physical fitness. While small-molecule drugs that eliminate senescent cells ('senolytics') partially replicate these phenotypes, they require continuous administration. We have developed a senolytic therapy based on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting the senescence-associated protein urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), and we previously showed these can safely eliminate senescent cells in young animals. We now show that uPAR-positive senescent cells accumulate during aging and that they can be safely targeted with senolytic CAR T cells. Treatment with anti-uPAR CAR T cells improves exercise capacity in physiological aging, and it ameliorates metabolic dysfunction (for example, improving glucose tolerance) in aged mice and in mice on a high-fat diet. Importantly, a single administration of these senolytic CAR T cells is sufficient to achieve long-term therapeutic and preventive effects.

Senescence-Targeted and NAD+-Dependent SIRT1-Activated Nanoplatform to Counteract Stem Cell Senescence for Promoting Aged Bone Regeneration

Age-related bone defects are a leading cause of disability and mortality in elderly individuals, and targeted therapy to delay the senescence of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has emerged as a promising strategy to rejuvenate bone regeneration in aged scenarios. More specifically, activating the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) pathway is demonstrated to effectively counteract MSC senescence and thus promote osteogenesis. Herein, based on an inventively identified senescent MSC-specific surface marker Kremen1, a senescence-targeted and NAD+ dependent SIRT1 activated nanoplatform is fabricated with a dual delivery of resveratrol (RSV) (SIRT1 promoter) and nicotinamide riboside (NR, NAD+ precursor). This targeting nanoplatform exhibits a strong affinity for senescent MSCs through conjugation with anti-Kremen1 antibodies and enables specifically responsive release of NR and RSV in lysosomes via senescence-associated β-galactosidase-stimulated enzymatic hydrolysis of the hydrophilic chain. Furthermore, this nanoplatform performs well in promoting aged bone formation both in vitro and in vivo by boosting NAD+, activating SIRT1, and delaying MSC senescence. For the first time, a novel senescent MSC-specific surface marker is identified and aged bone repair is rejuvenated by delaying senescence of MSCs using an active targeting platform. This discovery opens up new insights for nanotherapeutics aimed at age-related diseases.

Senolysis Enabled by Senescent Cell-Sensitive Bioorthogonal Tetrazine Ligation

Although the clearance of senescent cells has been proven to slow down the aging process and promote anti-cancer chemotherapy, the development of senolytics remains challenging. Herein, we report a senolytic strategy enabled by senescent cell-sensitive bioorthogonal tetrazine ligation. Our design is based on linking dihydrotetrazine (Tz) to a galactose (Gal) moiety that serves both as a recognition moiety for senescence-associated β-galactosidase and a caging group for the control of tetrazine activity. Gal-Tz enables efficient click-release of a fluorescent hemicyanine and doxorubicin from a trans-cyclooctene-caged prodrug to detect and eliminate senescent HeLa and A549 cells over non-senescent counterparts with a 16.44 senolytic index. Furthermore, we leverage the strategy for the selective activation and delivery of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) as senolytics. PROTAC prodrug TCO-ARV-771 can be selectively activated by Gal-Tz and delivered into senescent HeLa and A549 cells to induce the degradation of bromodomain-containing protein 4. Senolytic PROTACs may offer an efficient way for intervention on cell senescence thanks to their unique capacity to degrade target proteins in a sub-stoichiometric and catalytic fashion. The results of this study establish the bioorthogonal tetrazine ligation approach as a viable strategy for selective removal of senescent cells.

Senotherapeutics to Counteract Senescent Cells Are Prominent Topics in the Context of Anti-Ageing Strategies

Cellular senescence is implicated in ageing and associated with a broad spectrum of age-related diseases. Importantly, a cell can initiate the senescence program irrespective of the organism's age. Various stress signals, including those defined as ageing hallmarks and alterations leading to cancer development, oncogene activation, or loss of cancer-suppressive functions, can trigger cellular senescence. The primary outcome of these alterations is the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, thereby inducing the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, components of this phenotype, contribute to chronic systemic sterile inflammation, commonly referred to as inflamm-ageing. This inflammation is linked to age-related diseases (ARDs), frailty, and increased mortality in older individuals. Additionally, senescent cells (SCs) accumulate in multiple tissues with age and are believed to underlie the organism functional decline, as demonstrated by models. An escalating effort has been dedicated to identify senotherapeutics that selectively target SCs by inducing apoptosis; these drugs are termed senolytics. Concurrently, small molecules that suppress senescent phenotypes without causing cell death are known as senomorphics. Both natural and synthetic senotherapeutics, along with immunotherapies employing immune cell-mediated clearance of SCs, currently represent the most promising strategies to combat ageing and ARDs. Indeed, it is fascinating to observe that information regarding the immune reaction to SCs indicates that regulation by specific lymphocyte subsets, elevated in the oldest centenarians, plays a role in attaining extreme longevity. Regardless, the application of methods already utilized in cancer treatment, such as CAR cells and monoclonal antibodies, broadens the spectrum of potential approaches to be utilized.

Current senolytics: Mode of action, efficacy and limitations, and their future

Senescence is a cellular state characterized by its near-permanent halted cell cycle and distinct secretory phenotype. Although senescent cells have a variety of beneficial physiological functions, progressive accumulation of these cells due to aging or other conditions has been widely shown to provoke deleterious effects on the normal functioning of the same or higher-level biological organizations. Recently, erasing senescent cells in vivo, using senolytics, could ameliorate diseases identified with an elevated number of senescent cells. Since then, researchers have struggled to develop new senolytics each with different selectivity and potency. In this review, we have gathered and classified the proposed senolytics and discussed their mechanisms of action. Moreover, we highlight the heterogeneity of senolytics regarding their effect sizes, and cell type specificity as well as comment on the exploited strategies to improve these features. Finally, we suggest some prospective routes for the novel methods for ablation of senescent cells.

Detection and Elimination of Senescent Cells with a Self-Assembled Senescence-Associated β-Galactosidase-Activatable Nanophotosensitizer

Senescent cells have become an important therapeutic target for many age-related dysfunctions and diseases. We report herein a novel nanophotosensitizing system that is responsive to the senescence-associated β-galactosidase (β-gal) for selective detection and elimination of these cells. It involves a dimeric zinc(II) phthalocyanine linked to a β-galactose unit via a self-immolative linker. This compound can self-assemble in aqueous media, forming stable nanoscale particles in which the phthalocyanine units are stacked and self-quenched for fluorescence emission and singlet oxygen production. Upon internalization into senescent HeLa cells, these nanoparticles interact with the overproduced senescence-associated β-gal inside the cells to trigger the disassembly process through enzymatic cleavage of the glycosidic bonds, followed by self-immolation to release the photoactive monomeric phthalocyanine units. These senescent cells can then be lit up with fluorescence and eliminated through the photodynamic action upon light irradiation with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 0.06 μM.

Recent Advancement in Elimination Strategies and Potential Rejuvenation Targets of Senescence

Cellular senescence is a state of exiting the cell cycle, resisting apoptosis, and changing phenotype. Senescent cells (SCs) can be identified by large, distorted morphology and irreversible inability to replicate. In early development, senescence has beneficial roles like tissue patterning and wound healing, where SCs are cleared by the immune system. However, there is a steep rise in SC number as organisms age. The issue with SC accumulation stems from the loss of cellular function, alterations of the microenvironment, and secretions of pro-inflammatory molecules, consisting of cytokines, chemokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), interleukins, and extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated molecules. This secreted cocktail is referred to as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), a hallmark of cellular senescence. The SASP promotes inflammation and displays a bystander effect where paracrine signaling turns proliferating cells into senescent states. To alleviate age-associated diseases, researchers have developed novel methods and techniques to selectively eliminate SCs in aged individuals. Although studies demonstrated that selectively killing SCs improves age-related disorders, there are drawbacks to SC removal. Considering favorable aspects of senescence in the body, this paper reviews recent advancements in elimination strategies and potential rejuvenation targets of senescence to bring researchers in the field up to date.

Implications of cellular senescence in paediatric pituitary tumours

The long-standing view of senescent cells as passive and dysfunctional biological remnants has recently shifted into a new paradigm where they are main players in the development of many diseases, including cancer. The senescence programme represents a first line of defence that prevents tumour cell growth but also leads to the secretion of multiple pro-inflammatory and pro-tumourigenic factors that fuel tumour initiation, growth, and progression. Here, we review the main molecular features and biological functions of senescent cells in cancer, including the outcomes of inducing or targeting senescence. We discuss evidence on the role of cellular senescence in pituitary tumours, with an emphasis on adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) and pituitary adenomas. Although senescence has been proposed to be a tumour-preventing mechanism in pituitary adenomas, research in ACP has shown that senescent cells are tumour-promoting in both murine models and human tumours. Future studies characterizing the impact of targeting senescent cells may result in novel therapies against pituitary tumours.

Targeting Senescent Cells as Therapy for CKD

Senescent cells accumulate in the kidney with aging, after acute and chronic injuries, and are present in increased numbers in deteriorating kidney transplants. Senescent cells have undergone permanent cell cycle arrest and release many proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines and profibrotic factors: the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Recent work from several groups including our own has shown that senescent cells play a causative role in progression of kidney disease. Experimental evidence also indicates that targeting senescent cells has potential to alter the renal regenerative response, reducing progressive fibrosis and improving functional recovery after injury. Research and clinical interest is focused on understanding how accumulating chronic senescent cells link acute injury to progressive fibrosis, dysfunction, and mortality in human CKD. In this review, we outline current protocols for the identification of how senescent cells are identified in vitro and in vivo . We discuss the proposed mechanisms of actions of first-generation senolytic and senomorphic agents, such as ABT-263 (navitoclax) which targets the BCL2 family of survival factors, and senomorphic agents such as metformin which targets aspects of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. We also review that emerging technologies, such as nanocarriers, are now being developed to have safer delivery systems for senolytics, greater specificity, fewer off-target effects, and less toxicity. Other methods of senescent cell elimination being developed target various immune evasion tactics displayed by these cells. By understanding the role of senescence in kidney homeostasis and disease, developing new, targeted compounds and the tools to allow their efficacy to be charted noninvasively, it should become possible for senolytic treatments to move from the bench to bedside.

The stromal microenvironment and ovarian aging: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

For decades, most studies of ovarian aging have focused on its functional units, known as follicles, which include oocytes and granulosa cells. However, in the ovarian stroma, there are a variety of somatic components that bridge the gap between general aging and ovarian senescence. Physiologically, general cell types, microvascular structures, extracellular matrix, and intercellular molecules affect folliculogenesis and corpus luteum physiology alongside the ovarian cycle. As a result of damage caused by age-related metabolite accumulation and external insults, the microenvironment of stromal cells is progressively remodeled, thus inevitably perturbing ovarian physiology. With the established platforms for follicle cryopreservation and in vitro maturation and the development of organoid research, it is desirable to develop strategies to improve the microenvironment of the follicle by targeting the perifollicular environment. In this review, we summarize the role of stromal components in ovarian aging, describing their age-related alterations and associated effects. Moreover, we list some potential techniques that may mitigate ovarian aging based on their effect on the stromal microenvironment.

Enzyme-responsive nanospheres target senescent cells for diabetic wound healing by employing chemodynamic therapy

Evidence indicates that prolonged low-level inflammation and elevated-glucose-induced oxidative stress in diabetic wounds can accelerate senescence. The accumulation of senescent cells, in turn, inhibits cellular proliferation and migration, aggravating the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, ultimately impeding wound healing. In this study, we exploited the heightened lysosomal β-galactosidase activity detected in senescent cells to develop an innovative drug delivery system by encapsulating Fe3O4 with galactose-modified poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) (F@GP). We found that F@GP can selectively release Fe3O4 into senescent cells, inducing ferroptosis via the Fenton reaction in the presence of elevated intracellular H2O2 levels. This showed that F@GP administration can serve as a chemodynamic therapy to eliminate senescent cells and promote cell proliferation. Furthermore, the F@GP drug delivery system gradually released iron ions into the diabetic wound tissues, enhancing the attenuation of cellular senescence, stimulating cell proliferation, promoting re-epithelialization, and accelerating the healing of diabetic wounds in mice. Our groundbreaking approach unveiled the specific targeting of senescence by F@GP, demonstrating its profound effect on promoting the healing of diabetic wounds. This discovery underscores the therapeutic potential of F@GP in effectively addressing challenging cases of wound repair. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The development of galactose-modified PLGA nanoparticles loaded with Fe3O4 (F@GP) represents a significant therapeutic approach for the treatment of diabetic wounds. These nanoparticles exhibit remarkable potential in selectively targeting senescent cells, which accumulate in diabetic wound tissue, through an enzyme-responsive mechanism. By employing chemodynamic therapy, F@GP nanoparticles effectively eliminate senescent cells by releasing iron ions that mediate the Fenton reaction. This targeted approach holds great promise for promoting diabetic wound healing by selectively eliminating senescent cells, which play a crucial role in impairing the wound healing process. The innovative utilization of F@GP nanoparticles as a therapeutic intervention offers a novel and potentially transformative strategy for addressing the challenges associated with diabetic wound healing.

Cellular senescence and frailty: a comprehensive insight into the causal links

Senescent cells may have a prominent role in driving inflammation and frailty. The impact of cellular senescence on frailty varies depending on the assessment tool used, as it is influenced by the criteria or items predominantly affected by senescent cells and the varying weights assigned to these items across different health domains. To address this challenge, we undertook a thorough review of all available studies involving gain- or loss-of-function experiments as well as interventions targeting senescent cells, focusing our attention on those studies that examined outcomes based on the individual frailty phenotype criteria or specific items used to calculate two humans (35 and 70 items) and one mouse (31 items) frailty indexes. Based on the calculation of a simple "evidence score," we found that the burden of senescent cells related to musculoskeletal and cerebral health has the strongest causal link to frailty. We deem that insight into these mechanisms may not only contribute to clarifying the role of cellular senescence in frailty but could additionally provide multiple therapeutic opportunities to help the future development of a desirable personalized therapy in these extremely heterogeneous patients.

COPI vesicle formation and N-myristoylation are targetable vulnerabilities of senescent cells

Drugs that selectively kill senescent cells (senolytics) improve the outcomes of cancer, fibrosis and age-related diseases. Despite their potential, our knowledge of the molecular pathways that affect the survival of senescent cells is limited. To discover senolytic targets, we performed RNAi screens and identified coatomer complex I (COPI) vesicle formation as a liability of senescent cells. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of COPI results in Golgi dispersal, dysfunctional autophagy, and unfolded protein response-dependent apoptosis of senescent cells, and knockdown of COPI subunits improves the outcomes of cancer and fibrosis in mouse models. Drugs targeting COPI have poor pharmacological properties, but we find that N-myristoyltransferase inhibitors (NMTi) phenocopy COPI inhibition and are potent senolytics. NMTi selectively eliminated senescent cells and improved outcomes in models of cancer and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Our results suggest that senescent cells rely on a hyperactive secretory apparatus and that inhibiting trafficking kills senescent cells with the potential to treat various senescence-associated diseases.

Cellular senescence promotes progenitor cell expansion during axolotl limb regeneration

Axolotl limb regeneration is accompanied by the transient induction of cellular senescence within the blastema, the structure that nucleates regeneration. The precise role of this blastemal senescent cell (bSC) population, however, remains unknown. Here, through a combination of gain- and loss-of-function assays, we elucidate the functions and molecular features of cellular senescence in vivo. We demonstrate that cellular senescence plays a positive role during axolotl regeneration by creating a pro-proliferative niche that supports progenitor cell expansion and blastema outgrowth. Senescent cells impact their microenvironment via Wnt pathway modulation. Further, we identify a link between Wnt signaling and senescence induction and propose that bSC-derived Wnt signals facilitate the proliferation of neighboring cells in part by preventing their induction into senescence. This work defines the roles of cellular senescence in the regeneration of complex structures.

Cellular senescence in skeletal disease: mechanisms and treatment

The musculoskeletal system supports the movement of the entire body and provides blood production while acting as an endocrine organ. With aging, the balance of bone homeostasis is disrupted, leading to bone loss and degenerative diseases, such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and intervertebral disc degeneration. Skeletal diseases have a profound impact on the motor and cognitive abilities of the elderly, thus creating a major challenge for both global health and the economy. Cellular senescence is caused by various genotoxic stressors and results in permanent cell cycle arrest, which is considered to be the underlying mechanism of aging. During aging, senescent cells (SnCs) tend to aggregate in the bone and trigger chronic inflammation by releasing senescence-associated secretory phenotypic factors. Multiple signalling pathways are involved in regulating cellular senescence in bone and bone marrow microenvironments. Targeted SnCs alleviate age-related degenerative diseases. However, the association between senescence and age-related diseases remains unclear. This review summarises the fundamental role of senescence in age-related skeletal diseases, highlights the signalling pathways that mediate senescence, and discusses potential therapeutic strategies for targeting SnCs.

Cellular Senescence in Human Skin Aging: Leveraging Senotherapeutics

BACKGROUND

As the largest organ in the human body, the skin is continuously exposed to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli that impact its functionality and morphology with aging. Skin aging entails dysregulation of skin cells and loss, fragmentation, or fragility of extracellular matrix fibers that are manifested macroscopically by wrinkling, laxity, and pigmentary abnormalities. Age-related skin changes are the focus of many surgical and nonsurgical treatments aimed at improving overall skin appearance and health.

SUMMARY

As a hallmark of aging, cellular senescence, an essentially irreversible cell cycle arrest with apoptosis resistance and a secretory phenotype, manifests across skin layers by affecting epidermal and dermal cells. Knowledge of skin-specific senescent cells, such as melanocytes (epidermal aging) and fibroblasts (dermal aging), will promote our understanding of age-related skin changes and how to optimize patient outcomes in esthetic procedures.

KEY MESSAGES

This review provides an overview of skin aging in the context of cellular senescence and discusses senolytic intervention strategies to selectively target skin senescent cells that contribute to premature skin aging.

Reactive X (where X = O, N, S, C, Cl, Br, and I) species nanomedicine

Reactive oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, carbonyl, chlorine, bromine, and iodine species (RXS, where X = O, N, S, C, Cl, Br, and I) have important roles in various normal physiological processes and act as essential regulators of cell metabolism; their inherent biological activities govern cell signaling, immune balance, and tissue homeostasis. However, an imbalance between RXS production and consumption will induce the occurrence and development of various diseases. Due to the considerable progress of nanomedicine, a variety of nanosystems that can regulate RXS has been rationally designed and engineered for restoring RXS balance to halt the pathological processes of different diseases. The invention of radical-regulating nanomaterials creates the possibility of intriguing projects for disease treatment and promotes advances in nanomedicine. In this comprehensive review, we summarize, discuss, and highlight very-recent advances in RXS-based nanomedicine for versatile disease treatments. This review particularly focuses on the types and pathological effects of these reactive species and explores the biological effects of RXS-based nanomaterials, accompanied by a discussion and the outlook of the challenges faced and future clinical translations of RXS nanomedicines.

New Dawn for Atherosclerosis: Vascular Endothelial Cell Senescence and Death

Endothelial cells (ECs) form the inner linings of blood vessels, and are directly exposed to endogenous hazard signals and metabolites in the circulatory system. The senescence and death of ECs are not only adverse outcomes, but also causal contributors to endothelial dysfunction, an early risk marker of atherosclerosis. The pathophysiological process of EC senescence involves both structural and functional changes and has been linked to various factors, including oxidative stress, dysregulated cell cycle, hyperuricemia, vascular inflammation, and aberrant metabolite sensing and signaling. Multiple forms of EC death have been documented in atherosclerosis, including autophagic cell death, apoptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms underlying EC senescence or death in atherogenesis are not fully understood. To provide a comprehensive update on the subject, this review examines the historic and latest findings on the molecular mechanisms and functional alterations associated with EC senescence and death in different stages of atherosclerosis.

Impact of senolytic treatment on immunity, aging, and disease

Cellular senescence has been implicated in the pathophysiology of many age-related diseases. However, it also plays an important protective role in the context of tumor suppression and wound healing. Reducing senescence burden through treatment with senolytic drugs or the use of genetically targeted models of senescent cell elimination in animals has shown positive results in the context of mitigating disease and age-associated inflammation. Despite positive, albeit heterogenous, outcomes in clinical trials, very little is known about the short-term and long-term immunological consequences of using senolytics as a treatment for age-related conditions. Further, many studies examining cellular senescence and senolytic treatment have been demonstrated in non-infectious disease models. Several recent reports suggest that senescent cell elimination may have benefits in COVID-19 and influenza resolution and disease prognosis. In this review, we discuss the current clinical trials and pre-clinical studies that are exploring the impact of senolytics on cellular immunity. We propose that while eliminating senescent cells may have an acute beneficial impact on primary immune responses, immunological memory may be negatively impacted. Closer investigation of senolytics on immune function and memory generation would provide insight as to whether senolytics could be used to enhance the aging immune system and have potential to be used as therapeutics or prophylactics in populations that are severely and disproportionately affected by infections such as the elderly and immunocompromised.

Biosafety of mesoporous silica nanoparticles; towards clinical translation

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have attracted the attention of chemists, who have developed numerous systems for the encapsulation of a plethora of molecules, allowing the use of mesoporous silica nanoparticles for biomedical applications. MSNs have been extensively studied for their use in nanomedicine, in applications such as drug delivery, diagnosis, and bioimaging, demonstrating significant in vivo efficacy in different preclinical models. Nevertheless, for the transition of MSNs into clinical trials, it is imperative to understand the characteristics that make MSNs effective and safe. The biosafety properties of MSNs in vivo are greatly influenced by their physicochemical characteristics such as particle shape, size, surface modification, and silica framework. In this review, we compile the most relevant and recent progress in the literature up to the present by analyzing the contributions on biodistribution, biodegradability, and clearance of MSNs. Furthermore, the ongoing clinical trials and the potential challenges related to the administration of silica materials for advanced therapeutics are discussed. This approach aims to provide a solid overview of the state-of-the-art in this field and to encourage the translation of MSNs to the clinic.

Prophylactic and long-lasting efficacy of senolytic CAR T cells against age-related metabolic dysfunction

Senescent cells accumulate in organisms over time because of tissue damage and impaired immune surveillance and contribute to age-related tissue decline1,2. In agreement, genetic ablation studies reveal that elimination of senescent cells from aged tissues can ameliorate various age-related pathologies, including metabolic dysfunction and decreased physical fitness3-7. While small-molecule drugs capable of eliminating senescent cells (known as 'senolytics') partially replicate these phenotypes, many have undefined mechanisms of action and all require continuous administration to be effective. As an alternative approach, we have developed a cell-based senolytic therapy based on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting uPAR, a cell-surface protein upregulated on senescent cells, and previously showed these can safely and efficiently eliminate senescent cells in young animals and reverse liver fibrosis8. We now show that uPAR-positive senescent cells accumulate during physiological aging and that they can be safely targeted with senolytic CAR T cells. Treatment with anti uPAR CAR T cells ameliorates metabolic dysfunction by improving glucose tolerance and exercise capacity in physiological aging as well as in a model of metabolic syndrome. Importantly, a single administration of a low dose of these senolytic CAR T cells is sufficient to achieve long-term therapeutic and preventive effects.

Reversing and modulating cellular senescence in beta cells, a new field of opportunities to treat diabetes

Diabetes constitutes a world-wide pandemic that requires searching for new treatments to halt its progression. Cellular senescence of pancreatic beta cells has been described as a major contributor to development and worsening of diabetes. The concept of reversibility of cellular senescence is critical as is the timing to take actions against this "dormant" senescent state. The reversal of cellular senescence can be considered as rejuvenation of the specific cell if it returns to the original "healthy state" and doesn't behave aberrantly as seen in some cancer cells. In rodents, treatment with senolytics and senomorphics blunted or prevented disease progression, however their use carry drawbacks. Modulators of cellular senescence is a new area of research that seeks to reverse the senescence. More research in each of these modalities should lead to new treatments to stop diabetes development and progression.

[Skin aging-cellular senescence : What is the future?]

BACKGROUND

Cellular senescence is the main cause of skin and organ aging and is associated with a wide range of aging-related diseases.

OBJECTIVES

To understand which senolytics, senomorphics, and cell-based therapies have been developed to alleviate and even rejuvenate skin aging and reduce cellular senescence.

METHODS

Basic literature for the mode of action of senolytics and senomorphics and their clinical perspectives in daily routine are discussed.

RESULTS

Various causes lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and the activation of pro-aging signaling pathways, which eventually lead to cellular senescence with degradation of structural proteins of the dermal connective tissue and severe suppression of regenerative stem cell niches of the skin.

CONCLUSIONS

Depletion of senescent cells suppress skin aging and enforce rejuvenation of skin and other organs and their function. The removal of senescent cells by cells of the native immune system is severely disturbed during aging. Selected senolytics and senomorphics are approved and are already on the market.

Senescence in cancer: Advances in detection and treatment modalities

Senescence is a form of irreversible cell cycle arrest. Senescence plays a dual role in cancer, as both a tumor suppressor by preventing the growth of damaged cells and a cancer promoter by creating an inflammatory milieu. Stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) and replicative senescence are the two major sub-types of senescence. Senescence plays a dual role in cancer, depending on the context and kind of senescence involved. SIPS can cause cancer by nurturing an inflammatory environment, whereas replicative senescence may prevent cancer. Major pathways that are involved in senescence are the p53-p21, p16INK4A-Rb pathway along with mTOR, MAPK, and PI3K pathways. The lack of universal senescence markers makes it difficult to identify senescent cells in vivo. A combination of reliable detection methods of senescent cells in vivo is of utmost importance and will help in early detection and open new avenues for future treatment. New strategies that are being developed in order to tackle these shortcomings are in the field of fluorescent probes, nanoparticles, positron emission tomography probes, biosensors, and the detection of cell-free DNA from liquid biopsies. Along with detection, eradication of these senescent cells is also important to prevent cancer reoccurrence. Recently, the field of nano-senolytic and immunotherapy has also been emerging. This review provides up-to-date information on the various types of advancements made in the field of detection and treatment modalities for senescent cells that hold promise for the future treatment and prognosis of cancer, as well as their limitations and potential solutions.

Nanomedical research and development in Spain: improving the treatment of diseases from the nanoscale

The new and unique possibilities that nanomaterials offer have greatly impacted biomedicine, from the treatment and diagnosis of diseases, to the specific and optimized delivery of therapeutic agents. Technological advances in the synthesis, characterization, standardization, and therapeutic performance of nanoparticles have enabled the approval of several nanomedicines and novel applications. Discoveries continue to rise exponentially in all disease areas, from cancer to neurodegenerative diseases. In Spain, there is a substantial net of researchers involved in the development of nanodiagnostics and nanomedicines. In this review, we summarize the state of the art of nanotechnology, focusing on nanoparticles, for the treatment of diseases in Spain (2017-2022), and give a perspective on the future trends and direction that nanomedicine research is taking.