Beijing, June. 8 (SANA) A study published in the journal Aging-US suggests that senescent cells — cells that have stopped dividing but remain metabolically active — may have both harmful and beneficial functions in the human body depending on tissue environment and biological context.
Researchers at West China Hospital of Sichuan University report that while the accumulation of these cells has long been associated with chronic inflammation and age-related diseases affecting organs such as the liver, lungs, heart and brain, they may also play a role in tissue repair and regeneration.
According to the study, senescent cells may contribute to processes such as wound healing, tissue regeneration and the maintenance of tissue stability. This challenges the traditional assumption that these cells are solely detrimental in ageing-related conditions.
The findings suggest that senescence is not a uniform biological state, but one that varies depending on the surrounding cellular environment. Some senescent cells may contribute to inflammation and disease progression, while others may support repair mechanisms and structural recovery.
Researchers emphasized that future therapies targeting senescent cells should be designed with precision. Rather than eliminating all such cells, treatments may need to selectively target harmful populations while preserving those that support regeneration.
Current scientific efforts are focusing on developing targeted drugs and immune-based interventions aimed at modulating senescent cell activity. The goal is to reduce disease-related impacts while maintaining potential regenerative benefits.
The study adds to growing evidence that ageing is a highly regulated biological process rather than a simple decline in function. It also highlights the need for more nuanced therapeutic strategies in treating age-related diseases.
R.H/R.K
