Question 262 of 433
What are senescent “zombie” cells?
The short answer
Damaged cells that stop dividing but refuse to die. They release inflammatory chemicals that harm nearby healthy cells.
When we are young, the immune system clears them. With age, they accumulate in fat, joints, blood vessels, and the brain. In mice, removing these cells delays several age-related diseases and extends healthy life. The chemical stew they release has a name, SASP, and it is a major source of the chronic inflammation of aging.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ESTABLISHED BIOLOGY / PRECLINICAL — Cellular senescence; removing senescent cells has not established longer human life.Evidence grade (draft mapping)EEstablished clinical knowledgePart 18, Q262 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.