Cellular senescence is a state in which cells enter permanent a cell cycle arrest in response to stress or damage yet remain viable and metabolically active. Far from being inert, senescent cells serve many important functions, particularly in tissue repair, tumour suppression, and embryogenesis. First described by Leonard Hayflick in the early 1960s, what started as an initial observation in in vitro experiments has evolved today into a well-researched fundamental pillar of ageing and age-associated diseases.
With new insights into the morphology, metabolism, and role of senescent cells in different pathologies, researchers are uncovering opportunities to target senescent cells as potential therapeutic strategies for ageing, cancer, and other diseases. This huge surge in knowledge makes now an especially exciting time for cellular senescence research.
As such, FEBS Open Bio is pleased to present its May ‘In the Limelight’ issue on this very topic. Guest Editor Dimitris Kletsas (NCSR "Demokritos", Greece) summarises the issue contents and highlights the current developments in the field in an introductory editorial.
Following this are three timely review articles, each focusing on different areas of cellular senescence research:
- Nnintas et al. discuss the importance of accurate detection of senescent cells, highlighting the limitations of existing biomarkers and the urgent need for a more comprehensive, multi-omic approach.
- Mazan-Mamczarz et al. explore how disrupted communication between organelles contributes to senescence and highlight emerging technologies that can map these interactions to identify therapeutic opportunities.
- Tsagkari et al. review alterations in lipid metabolism that drive senescence in neuronal and glial cells, their effect in brain ageing and neurodegenerative diseases, and discuss potential treatments targeting these pathways.
We invite you to read the full issue here.
To accompany this special issue, FEBS Open Bio will be holding a free webinar on 18th June, hosted by guest editor Dimitris Kletsas. Follow FEBS Open Bio on LinkedIn to be notified of registration details and ensure you don’t miss this exciting event!