Clearance of senescent macrophages ameliorates tumorigenesis in KRAS-driven lung cancer

Aging microvasculature: Effects on immune cell trafficking and inflammatory diseases

Leukocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation is vital for orchestrating an effective immune response. Key to this process is the ability of leukocytes to migrate through venular walls, engaging in sequential interactions with endothelial cells, pericytes, and the venular basement membrane. The aging process exerts profound effects on the molecular and functional properties of the vasculature, thereby influencing the profile and dynamics of leukocyte trafficking during inflammation. In this review, by focusing mainly on neutrophils, we summarize key examples of how the aged microvasculature and perivascular stroma cells promote dysregulated leukocyte-venular wall interactions and present the associated molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we discuss the functional implications of such aberrant leukocyte behavior to age-related and chronic inflammatory pathologies.

Senescence in cancer

Cellular senescence is a state of stable cell-cycle arrest induced by various intrinsic and extrinsic stressors, serving as a protective mechanism to prevent the proliferation of damaged cells. While this process is crucial for tissue homeostasis and tumor suppression, the progressive accumulation of senescent cells (SnCs) over time is implicated in age-related pathologies, including immune dysfunction and cancer. In oncology, senescence plays a paradoxical role: it can inhibit tumor development by halting the growth of potentially malignant cells, yet it may also facilitate tumor progression through the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This review explores the defining features of senescence in cancer, its complex interactions with tumor cells, the stroma, and the immune system, and its context-dependent outcomes. We also discuss current and emerging therapeutic strategies that target SnCs-either by inducing or eliminating them-as well as AI-driven approaches for their detection and characterization in cancer.

Design and in vitro evaluation of novel tetrazole derivatives of dianisidine as anticancer agents targeting Bcl-2 apoptosis regulator

This study examines the synthesis and biological evaluation of novel tetrazole derivatives of 3,3'-dimethoxybenzidine as potential anticancer agents, focusing on their cytotoxic, apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Ten derivatives were synthesized using thioureas as precursors, characterized through spectroscopic methods, and assessed for their in silico toxicological profiles using the ADMET-AI and ProTox 3.0 platforms. In vitro cytotoxic activity was evaluated against four human cancer cell lines (HTB-140, A549, HeLa, SW620) and one normal cell line (HaCaT) using MTT and LDH assays. Mechanistic studies included apoptosis assessment via flow cytometry and interleukin-6 (IL-6) analysis using ELISA. The synthesized tetrazole derivatives demonstrated significant anticancer potential, exhibiting selective cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines, robust induction of apoptosis, and a notable reduction in IL-6 levels. Their favorable toxicity profiles, as observed in both in silico and in vitro evaluations, support their potential as promising candidates for further development. The tested compounds showed strong inhibitory activity against the apoptosis regulator Bcl-2, with binding affinities comparable to those of native ligands. Western blot analysis revealed a dramatic loss of Bcl-2 protein expression in selected cancer cells during exposure to compound 5. Additionally, this research highlights the innovative use of hazardous substrates in drug discovery, aligning with the principles of green chemistry. Future efforts should focus on optimizing the most active derivatives and conducting in vivo studies to confirm their therapeutic potential and safety.

Berbamine as potential STING inhibitor For KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Poor prognostic results in LUAD are frequently associated with KRAS mutations and drug resistance. KRAS mutations can induce STING activation by triggering DNA damage response (DDR) activation. This persistently activated STING signaling gives rise to an immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby complicating treatment efforts. In this study, we identified that the low-toxicity pro-apoptotic drug Berbamine (BBM) as a potential therapeutic agent for LUAD cells with KRAS mutations. BBM exhibits anti-tumor effects by triggering cell cycle arrest, enhancing senescence, and activating apoptosis. BBM also targets STING, leading to the downregulation of p-STING (Ser366) and CCL2. This in turn reduced the infiltration of M-MDSCs into the tumor microenvironment. These combined mechanisms not only suppress STING-dependent tumor growth but also remodel the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing anti-tumor immunity. Collectively, our findings position BBM as a promising therapeutic agent for LUAD with KRAS mutations, offering a strategy to target STING-associated pathways, overcome immune suppression, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Tumour and microenvironment crosstalk in NSCLC progression and response to therapy

The treatment landscape of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is evolving rapidly, driven by advances in the development of targeted agents and immunotherapies. Despite this progress, some patients have suboptimal responses to treatment, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies. In the past decade, the important role of the tumour microenvironment (TME) in NSCLC progression, metastatic dissemination and response to treatment has become increasingly evident. Understanding the complexity of the TME and its interactions with NSCLC can propel efforts to improve current treatment modalities, overcome resistance and develop new treatments, which will ultimately improve the outcomes of patients. In this Review, we provide a comprehensive view of the NSCLC TME, examining its components and highlighting distinct archetypes characterized by spatial niches within and surrounding tumour nests, which form complex neighbourhoods. Next, we explore the interactions within these components, focusing on how inflammation and immunosuppression shape the dynamics of the NSCLC TME. We also address the emerging influences of patient-related factors, such as ageing, sex and health disparities, on the NSCLC-TME crosstalk. Finally, we discuss how various therapeutic strategies interact with and are influenced by the TME in NSCLC. Overall, we emphasize the interconnectedness of these elements and how they influence therapeutic outcomes and tumour progression.

CD103+ T Cells Eliminate Damaged Alveolar Epithelial Type II Cells Under Oxidative Stress to Prevent Lung Tumorigenesis

The nexus between aging-associated immune deteriorations and tumorigenesis of lung cancers remains elusive. In a mouse model with Med23 depletion in T cells (Med23 -/-), it is found a strong association between the decline of CD103+ T cells and spontaneous alveolar epithelial type II cell (AT2 cell)-originated lung adenocarcinomas. The reduction of CD103+ T cells in the lung results in an accumulation of AT2 cells bearing oxidative damages, which appears to be the major origin of the lung adenocarcinoma. Functional experiments reveal CD103+ T cells can eradicate oxidative-damage-bearing AT2 cells as well as ROS-dependent, KRAS (G12D)-driven tumorigenesis. In vitro co-cultures prove CD103+ T cells, especially CD103+ CD8+ T cells, exhibit a killing capacity that matches the oxidative stress level in the target cells. In aged animals, it is found the abundance of CD103+ CD8+ T cells in the lung declines with age, accompanied by an accumulation of oxidative-damage-bearing AT2 cells. Collectively, the study establishes the vital function of CD103+ T cells in surveilling epithelial cells under oxidative stress to prevent malignancies, and unravels a potential immuno-dysregulation in the aged lung which contributes to tumorigenesis.

Spatial and multiomics analysis of human and mouse lung adenocarcinoma precursors reveals TIM-3 as a putative target for precancer interception

How tumor microenvironment shapes lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) precancer evolution remains poorly understood. Spatial immune profiling of 114 human LUAD and LUAD precursors reveals a progressive increase of adaptive response and a relative decrease of innate immune response as LUAD precursors progress. The immune evasion features align the immune response patterns at various stages. TIM-3-high features are enriched in LUAD precancers, which decrease in later stages. Furthermore, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial immune and transcriptomics profiling of LUAD and LUAD precursor specimens from 5 mouse models validate high TIM-3 features in LUAD precancers. In vivo TIM-3 blockade at precancer stage, but not at advanced cancer stage, decreases tumor burden. Anti-TIM-3 treatment is associated with enhanced antigen presentation, T cell activation, and increased M1/M2 macrophage ratio. These results highlight the coordination of innate and adaptive immune response/evasion during LUAD precancer evolution and suggest TIM-3 as a potential target for LUAD precancer interception.

T-cell Senescence in the Tumor Microenvironment

T-cell senescence occurs in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and influences cancer outcomes as well as the effectiveness of immunotherapies. The TME triggers this T-cell senescence via multiple pathways, including persistent stimulation with tumor-associated antigens, altered metabolic pathways, and activation of chronic inflammatory responses. Senescent T cells exhibit characteristics such as genomic instability, loss of protein homeostasis, metabolic dysregulation, and epigenetic alterations. Direct cross-talk between senescent T cells and other immune cells further exacerbates the immunosuppressive TME. This immune-tumor cell interaction within the TME contributes to impaired tumor antigen recognition and surveillance by T cells. The presence of senescent T cells is often associated with poor prognosis and reduced efficacy of immunotherapies; thus, targeting the tumor-promoting mechanisms of T-cell senescence may provide novel insights into improving tumor immunotherapy and patient outcomes. This review explores the contributors to tumor-derived T-cell senescence, the link between T-cell senescence and tumor prognosis, and the potential for targeting T-cell senescence to enhance tumor immunotherapy.

Melatonin-mediated cGAS-STING signal in senescent macrophages promote TNBC chemotherapy resistance and drive the SASP

The build-up of senescent cells in tissues is a key indicator of aging, associated with negative prognosis and therapy resistance. Despite immune dysfunction related to aging, also known as immunosenescence, is recognized as a factor in this process, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, we reported that melatonin deficiency accelerated macrophage senescence in triple-negative breast cancer, whereas melatonin could defend macrophages against senescence through the Nfatc1-Trim26-cgas-Sting pathway. Mechanistically, melatonin enhanced the nuclear translocation of Nfatc1 and elevated Trim26 transcription levels. Trim26, functioning as an E3 ligase, ubiquitinates cgas, thereby inhibiting the activation of the cgas-Sing pathway and consequently preventing cell senescence. Conversely, melatonin deficiency induced cgas-Sting pathway activation to promote macrophage aging. Our results show that melatonin inhibited macrophage senescence and improved chemotherapy responsiveness, with further enhancement when combined with the cgas inhibitor (G150). Overall, our findings indicated that melatonin protects macrophages from immunosenescence, suggesting its therapeutic potential for enhancing chemotherapy response.

Decoding the crossroads of aging and cancer through single-cell analysis: Implications for precision oncology

Single-cell analysis is a transformative approach to understanding cellular heterogeneity in aging and cancer, interconnected processes driven by mechanisms like senescence and immune modulation. This review explores how aging influences cancer initiation, progression, and treatment resistance within the tumor microenvironment (TME). By examining recent studies using single-cell technologies, we reveal the nuanced roles of aging in tumorigenesis, immune interactions, and therapeutic outcomes. Aging is closely tied to cancer progression, with senescent cells demonstrating heightened proliferative, invasive, and metastatic capabilities. Emerging senolytic therapies targeting aging-related pathways hold promise for enhancing treatment efficacy. Advanced tools such as spatial transcriptomics, molecular probes, and artificial intelligence further refine our understanding of aging-related heterogeneity in the TME. By integrating single-cell analysis with these technologies, future research can clarify the intricate interactions between aging and cancer, advancing precision oncology and improving outcomes for aging cancer patients.

Signaling networks in cancer stromal senescent cells establish malignant microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment (TME) encompasses various cell types, blood and lymphatic vessels, and noncellular constituents like extracellular matrix (ECM) and cytokines. These intricate interactions between cellular and noncellular components contribute to the development of a malignant TME, such as immunosuppressive, desmoplastic, angiogenic conditions, and the formation of a niche for cancer stem cells, but there is limited understanding of the specific subtypes of stromal cells involved in this process. Here, we utilized p16-CreERT2-tdTomato mouse models to investigate the signaling networks established by senescent cancer stromal cells, contributing to the development of a malignant TME. In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) allograft models, these senescent cells were found to promote cancer fibrosis, enhance angiogenesis, and suppress cancer immune surveillance. Notably, the selective elimination of senescent cancer stromal cells improves the malignant TME, subsequently reducing tumor progression in PDAC. This highlights the antitumor efficacy of senolytic treatment alone and its synergistic effect when combined with conventional chemotherapy. Taken together, our findings suggest that the signaling crosstalk among senescent cancer stromal cells plays a key role in the progression of PDAC and may be a promising therapeutic target.

Senescent cell reduction does not improve recovery in mice under experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced demyelination

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by immune cell-driven demyelination and progressive neurodegeneration. Senescent cells (SCs) have recently been observed in chronic MS lesions indicating their possible involvement in disease progression. However, the role of SCs and the potential therapeutic benefit of their reduction through senolytic therapy remains to be determined in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a widely used preclinical model of MS. Here, we show that senescent-like myeloid cells accumulate in the spinal cord parenchyma and meninges in mice after myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG33-55) EAE induction. Treatment with the senolytic cocktail, Dasatinib and Quercetin (DQ), effectively reduces the senescent-like myeloid cells, but this does not translate into improved clinical outcomes in EAE mice. Increasing DQ dosage or using INK-ATTAC transgenic mice also failed to ameliorate EAE severity. Additionally, histopathological analysis shows no significant differences in demyelination or axonal degeneration between treated and control groups. Our findings indicate that senescent-like myeloid cells are present in an immune-mediated demyelinating model of MS and can be reduced through senolytic therapy with Dasatinib and Quercetin. However, their reduction through DQ does not significantly impact inflammation or recovery, suggesting that the therapeutic potential of senolytics as disease-modifying drugs in MS may be limited.

The Role and Molecular Pathways of SIRT6 in Senescence and Age-related Diseases

SIRT6 is a NAD+-dependent histone deacetylase with crucial roles in controlling DNA damage repair, telomere homeostasis, oxidative stress, autophagy, and other cellular processes, and it has long been recognized as a longevity-associated protein. This review details its anti-aging-related mechanisms. First, SIRT6 facilitates DNA repair pathways and maintains genome stability by deacetylating histone H3 at K56, K9, and K18 residues, in addition to participating in DNA damage repair through mono-ADP-ribosylation and other mechanisms. Second, SIRT6 preserves telomere integrity and mitigates cellular senescence by reducing oxidative stress-induced damage through the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibition of inflammation, and other pathways. Furthermore, SIRT6 promotes autophagy, slowing cellular senescence via the modulation of various signaling pathways, including AMPK, IGF-Akt-mTOR, H133Y, IL-1β, and mitochondrial autophagy-related proteins. Finally, SIRT6 regulates multiple signaling pathways, such asNF-κB, FOXO, and AMPK, to counteract the aging process. This review particularly delves into the interplay between SIRT6 and various diseases, including tumors, cardiovascular diseases (e.g., atherosclerosis, heart failure), metabolic diseases (e.g., type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, gluconeogenesis, osteoporosis), and neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease). Moreover, recent advancements in SIRT6-regulated compounds (e.g., C3G, BZBS, Fisetin, FNDC5, Lycorine hydrochloride, and Ergothioneine) are discussed as potential therapeutic agents for these mediated diseases.

Cellular senescence offers distinct immunological vulnerabilities in cancer

Chronic damage following oncogene induction or cancer therapy can produce cellular senescence. Senescent cells not only exit the cell cycle but communicate damage signals to their environment that can trigger immune responses. Recent work has revealed that senescent tumor cells are highly immunogenic, leading to new ways to activate antitumor immunosurveillance and potentiate T cell-directed immunotherapies. However, other studies have determined that heterogeneous senescent stromal cell populations contribute to immunosuppression and tumor progression, sparking the development of senotherapeutics to target senescent cells that evade immune detection. We review current findings that provide deeper insights into the mechanisms contributing to the dichotomous role of senescence in immune modulation and how that can be leveraged for cancer immunotherapy.

Angiogenesis and targeted therapy in the tumour microenvironment: From basic to clinical practice

Angiogenesis, as a core marker of cancer survival and growth, is integral to the processes of tumour growth, invasion and metastasis. In recent years, targeted angiogenesis treatment strategies have gradually become an important direction in cancer treatment. Single-cell sequencing technology can provide new insights into targeted angiogenesis by providing a deeper understanding of the heterogeneity of tumour endothelial cells and exploring the interactions between endothelial cells and surrounding cells in the tumour microenvironment. Here, we systematically review the research progress in endothelial cell pathophysiology and its endothelial‒mesenchymal transition and illustrate the heterogeneity of endothelial cells from a single-cell perspective. Finally, we examine the contributions of different cell types within the tumour microenvironment in relation to tumour angiogenesis, as well as the latest progress and strategies in targeted angiogenesis therapy, hoping to provide useful insights into the clinical application of antiangiogenic treatment. Furthermore, a summary of the present progress in the development of potential angiogenesis inhibitors and the ongoing clinical trials for combination therapies is provided. KEY POINTS: Angiogenesis plays a key role in tumour progression, invasion and metastasis, so strategies targeting angiogenesis are gradually becoming an important direction in cancer therapy. Interactions between endothelial cells and stromal cells and immune cells in the tumour microenvironment are significant in angiogenesis. The application of antiangiogenic immunotherapy and nanotechnology in antiangiogenic therapy provides a vital strategy for prolonging the survival of cancer patients.

Enhancing immunity during ageing by targeting interactions within the tissue environment

Immunity declines with age. This results in a higher risk of age-related diseases, diminished ability to respond to new infections and reduced response to vaccines. The causes of this immune dysfunction are cellular senescence, which occurs in both lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissue, and chronic, low-grade inflammation known as 'inflammageing'. In this Review article, we highlight how the processes of inflammation and senescence drive each other, leading to loss of immune function. To break this cycle, therapies are needed that target the interactions between the altered tissue environment and the immune system instead of targeting each component alone. We discuss the relative merits and drawbacks of therapies that are directed at eliminating senescent cells (senolytics) and those that inhibit inflammation (senomorphics) in the context of tissue niches. Furthermore, we discuss therapeutic strategies designed to directly boost immune cell function and improve immune surveillance in tissues.

The Regulation of Cellular Senescence in Cancer

Cellular senescence is a stable state of cell cycle arrest caused by telomere shortening or various stresses. After senescence, cells cease dividing and exhibit many age-related characteristics. Unlike the halted proliferation of senescence cells, cancer cells are considered to have unlimited growth potential. When cells display senescence-related features, such as telomere loss or stem cell failure, they can inhibit tumor development. Therefore, inducing cells to enter a senescence state can serve as a barrier to tumor cell development. However, many recent studies have found that sustained senescence of tumor cells or normal cells under certain circumstances can exert environment-dependent effects of tumor promotion and inhibition by producing various cytokines. In this review, we first introduce the causes and characteristics of induced cellular senescence, analyze the senescence process of immune cells and cancer cells, and then discuss the dual regulatory role of cell senescence on tumor growth and senescence-induced therapies targeting cancer cells. Finally, we discuss the role of senescence in tumor progression and treatment opportunities, and propose further studies on cellular senescence and cancer therapy.

Immunosenescence promotes cancer development: from mechanisms to treatment strategies

The body's innate immune system plays a pivotal role in identifying and eliminating cancer cells. However, as the immune system ages, its functionality can deteriorate, becoming dysfunctional, inefficient, or even inactive-a condition referred to as immunosenescence. This decline significantly increases the risk of malignancies. While the pro-cancer effects of T-cell aging have been widely explored, there remains a notable gap in the literature regarding the impact of aging on innate immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils. This review seeks to address this gap, with emphasis on these cell types. Furthermore, although certain cancer immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have demonstrated efficacy across a broad spectrum of cancers, elderly patients are less likely to derive clinical benefit from these treatments. In some cases, they may even experience immune-related adverse events (irAEs). While senolytic strategies have shown promise in exerting anti-cancer effects, their adverse reactions and potential off-target effects present significant challenges. This review aims to elucidate the pro-cancer effects of immunosenescence, its implications for the efficacy and safety of ICIs, and potential anti-aging treatment strategies. In addition, optimizing anti-aging therapies to minimize adverse reactions and enhance therapeutic outcomes remains a critical focus for future research endeavors.

The complex interplay between aging and cancer

Cancer is an age-related disease, but the interplay between cancer and aging is complex and their shared molecular drivers are deeply intertwined. This Review provides an overview of how different biological pathways affect cancer and aging, leveraging evidence mainly derived from animal studies. We discuss how genome maintenance and accumulation of DNA mutations affect tumorigenesis and tissue homeostasis during aging. We describe how age-related telomere dysfunction and cellular senescence intricately modulate tumor development through mechanisms involving genomic instability and inflammation. We examine how an aged immune system and chronic inflammation shape tumor immunosurveillance, fueling DNA damage and cellular senescence. Finally, as animal models are important to untangling the relative contributions of these aging-modulated pathways to cancer progression and to test interventions, we discuss some of the limitations of physiological and accelerated aging models, aiming to improve experimental designs and enhance translation.

Radiotherapy-Associated Cellular Senescence and EMT Alterations Contribute to Distinct Disease Relapse Patterns in Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer

A notable number of locally advanced cervical carcinoma (LACC) patients experience local or distant disease relapse following radiotherapy. The contribution of tumor microenvironment (TME) to tumor recurrence at different sites remains unclear. Here, single-nucleus RNA sequencing data from 28 pre- and on-treatment LACC samples from patients with different disease relapse patterns is analyzed. The findings revealed opposing alterations in the expression levels of the cellular senescence pathway after radiotherapy in patients with local and distant relapses. In contrast, an increase in the expression of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition module after radiotherapy in both relapse groups is observed. Cell-cell interactions, drug-target expression analyses in malignant cells after radiation, and multiplex immunofluorescence of tumor tissue identified interleukin-1 receptor type I (IL1R1) as a potential therapeutic target. It is demonstrated that combining the IL1R1 inhibitor anakinra with radiation can mitigate the effects of radiation on tumor cells. This study highlights the distinct roles of cellular senescence and EMT in tumor recurrence.

Advancements in cellular immunotherapy: overcoming resistance in lung and colorectal cancer

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, offering hope for patients with otherwise treatment-resistant tumors. Among the most promising approaches are cellular therapies, particularly chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, which has shown remarkable success in hematologic malignancies. However, the application of these therapies to solid tumors, such as lung and colorectal cancers, has faced significant challenges. Tumor resistance mechanisms-ranging from immune evasion, antigen loss, and immune checkpoint upregulation, to tumor microenvironment immunosuppression-remain major obstacles. This mini-review highlights the latest advancements in tumor immunotherapy, with a focus on cellular therapies, and addresses the resistance mechanisms that hinder their effectiveness in lung and colorectal cancers. We examine the evolution of CAR-T cell therapy, as well as the potential of engineered natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages in solid tumor treatment. The review also explores cutting-edge strategies aimed at overcoming resistance, including combination therapies, gene editing technologies, and nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery. By discussing the molecular, cellular, and microenvironmental factors contributing to resistance, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of how these challenges can be overcome, paving the way for more effective, personalized immunotherapies in lung and colorectal cancer treatment.

Analysis of the causal relationship between five chosen factors and early-onset Alzheimer's disease: A Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

This study aims to explore the causal relationship between five selected factors-lysosome, migrasomes, macrophage, fibroblast, and endothelium cell-and early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) through related genes, providing clues for EOAD research.

METHODS

Using genes related to the five selected factors as exposure variables and EOAD as the disease outcome, significant genes were screened through Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method, based on the OpenGWAS database. The selected genes were intersected with genes related to the exposure factors to assess the causal relationships between the five factors and EOAD.

RESULTS

MR analysis identified 13 genes in total. Six of these genes were protective factors for EOAD, with LYST being the most significant (OR = 0.4259, 95% CI: 0.2218-0.8178, p = 0.0103). Seven genes were risk factors for EOAD, with NCF4 being the most significant (OR = 2.7207, 95% CI: 1.0229-7.2362, p = 0.0449). A total of 1925 genes related to lysosome, migrasomes, macrophage, fibroblast, and endothelium cell were analyzed. After intersection, 10 lysosome-related genes (NCF4, VIPAS39, LYST, SORT1, ARSB, EPDR1, SYNGR1, ANXA11, PYGB, CLN5) and 3 endothelium cell -related genes (ADM, NFIB, NKTR) were found to have significant causal relationships with EOAD.

CONCLUSIONS

There are genes related to lysosome and endothelium cell that have significant relationships with EOAD, while no causal relationships were found between migrasomes, macrophage, fibroblast, and EOAD. This study provides an important basis for further EOAD research.

Mechanisms and strategies of immunosenescence effects on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment: A comprehensive analysis and future directions

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most prevalent form of lung cancer, remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, particularly among elderly individuals. The phenomenon of immunosenescence, characterized by the progressive decline in immune cell functionality with aging, plays a pivotal role in NSCLC progression and contributes to the diminished efficacy of therapeutic interventions in older patients. Immunosenescence manifests through impaired immune surveillance, reduced cytotoxic responses, and increased chronic inflammation, collectively fostering a pro-tumorigenic microenvironment. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular, cellular, and genetic mechanisms of immunosenescence and its impact on immune surveillance and the tumor microenvironment (TME) in NSCLC. We explore how aging affects various immune cells, including T cells, B cells, NK cells, and macrophages, and how these changes compromise the immune system's ability to detect and eliminate tumor cells. Furthermore, we address the challenges posed by immunosenescence to current therapeutic strategies, particularly immunotherapy, which faces significant hurdles in elderly patients due to immune dysfunction. The review highlights emerging technologies, such as single-cell sequencing and CRISPR-Cas9, which offer new insights into immunosenescence and its potential as a therapeutic target. Finally, we outline future research directions, including strategies for rejuvenating the aging immune system and optimizing immunotherapy for older NSCLC patients, with the goal of improving treatment efficacy and survival outcomes. These efforts hold promise for the development of more effective, personalized therapies for elderly patients with NSCLC.

Immune therapeutic strategies for the senescent tumor microenvironment

Senescent cells can either to promote immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment or facilitate immune surveillance. Despite the revolutionary impact of cancer immunotherapy, durable responses in solid tumors, particularly in advanced stages, remain limited. Recent studies have shed light on the influence of senescent status within the tumor microenvironment (TME) on therapy resistance and major efforts are needed to overcome these challenges. This review summarizes recent advancements in targeting cellular senescence, with a particular focus on immunomodulatory approaches on the hallmarks of cellular senescence.

Integrative analysis disclosing UQCRC1 as a potential prognostic and immunological biomarker of lung adenocarcinoma

Lung cancer is one of the most malignant cancers in the world. Approximately 40 % of lung cancer cases are lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Exploring new biomarkers was an urgent need for treatments of LUAD. Here, we aimed to perform a pan-cancer analysis of ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase core protein 1 (UQCRC1) and verify it in LUAD. Compared to normal samples, we observed that UQCRC1 was significantly enhanced in cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC), LUAD, liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), and several other cancers. In terms of overall survival, UQCRC1 was positively associated with poor prognosis of LUAD and skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM). Almost more than 8 % deeply deleted frequency of UQCRC1 was showed in lymphoid neoplasm diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBC). In LUAD, SKCM, and a few cancers, UQCRC1 was negatively correlated with the infiltration of B cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. As regards further mechanism analysis, we found that UQCRC1 modulated cancer progression via mitochondrial related metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. Taking advantage of the Kras-driven spontaneous LUAD mice model, online single-cell data, and clinical tissues, we particularly confirmed that UQCRC1 was highly expressed in LUAD and acted as a prognostic marker for LUAD. These findings implied that UQCRC1 played an important role in cancers, especially in LUAD.

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and its protective effects against colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis of 26 studies with 2,217,404 participants

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern and represents a significant public health challenge in Hungary, where it exhibits some of the highest morbidity and mortality rates in the European Union. The Mediterranean diet has been suggested to reduce the incidence of CRC, but comprehensive evidence from diverse study designs is needed to substantiate this effect. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, CENTRAL, and the Web of Science to identify randomized controlled trials and human clinical trials from 2008 to 2024 to identify relevant studies. Statistical analysis was performed using the https://metaanalysisonline.com web application using a random effects model to estimate the pooled hazard rates (HRs). Forest plots, funnel plots, and Z-score plots were utilized to visualize results. We identified 15 clinical trials and 9 case-control studies, encompassing a total of 2,217,404 subjects. The pooled analysis indicated that adherence to the Mediterranean diet significantly reduced the prevalence of CRC (HR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.78-0.91, p < 0.01). This protective effect was consistent across sexes, with HRs of 0.85 (95% CI = 0.75-0.97, p = 0.01) for males and 0.88 (95% CI = 0.79-0.99, p = 0.03) for females. Case-control studies specifically showed a substantial effect (HR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.38-0.68, p < 0.01). Notable heterogeneity was observed across studies, yet the a priori information size was substantially below the cumulative sample size, ensuring sufficient data for reliable conclusions. The findings from this meta-analysis reinforce the protective role of the Mediterranean diet against CRC. The results of this meta-analysis will inform dietary interventions designed to mitigate CRC risk, which are conducted within the framework of the Semmelweis Study, an ongoing comprehensive cohort study at Semmelweis University, designed to explore the multifaceted causes of unhealthy aging in Hungary. These interventions aim to explore the practical application of Mediterranean dietary patterns in reducing CRC incidence among the Hungarian population.

Revealing the role of cancer-associated fibroblast senescence in prognosis and immune landscape in pancreatic cancer

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) represent a major contributor to tumor growth. Cellular senescence is a state of cell-cycle arrest characterized by a pro-inflammatory phenotype. The potential impact of CAF senescence on tumor progression and the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains to be elucidated. Here, we systematically investigated the relationship between CAF senescence and the TME of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) based on multi-omics analysis and functional experiments. CAF senescence promotes tumor progression in vitro and in vivo and contributes to the formation of immunosuppressive TME. A CAF-senescence-related risk score was developed to predict overall survival, immune landscape, and treatment sensitivity in patients with PDAC. Further experiments revealed that plasminogen activator urokinase (PLAU) derived from senescent CAFs (SCAFs) promoted PDAC progression and was involved in immunosuppression. Together, these findings suggested that CAF senescence was correlated with tumor progression, and the CAF-senescence-based machine learning model could potentially predict prognosis in patients with PDAC.

Decoding T cell senescence in cancer: Is revisiting required?

Senescence is an inherent cellular mechanism triggered as a response to stressful insults. It associates with several aspects of cancer progression and therapy. Senescent cells constitute a highly heterogeneous cellular population and their identification can be very challenging. In fact, the term "senescence" has been often misused. This is also true in the case of immune cells. While several studies indicate the presence of senescent-like features (mainly in T cells), senescent immune cells are poorly described. Under this prism, we herein review the current literature on what has been characterized as T cell senescence and provide insights on how to accurately discriminate senescent cells against exhausted or anergic ones. We also summarize the major metabolic and epigenetic modifications associated with T cell senescence and underline the role of senescent T cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Moreover, we discuss how these cells associate with standard clinical therapeutic interventions and how they impact their efficacy. Finally, we underline the importance of precise identification and thorough characterization of "truly" senescent T cells in order to design successful therapeutic manipulations that would delay cancer incidence and maximize efficacy of immunotherapy.

Induction of Senescence in Lung Cancer Cells by Qidongning Formula via the Transcription Factor EGR1

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of the early growth response gene 1 (EGR1) in inducing senescence in lung cancer cells by Qidongning Formula (QDF). Methods: Cell-Counting-Kit-8 was used to study the effect of QDF on A549 and NCI-H1975 cells proliferation. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-GAL) staining was used to examine the effect of QDF on cellular senescence. RT-qPCR analyses and Western blot were used to monitor the expression of EGR1 and the senescence-associated proteins p21 and p53. A rescue assay using an EGR1-overexpressing vector to explore whether EGR1 is a key target gene of QDF-induced lung cancer senescence. Bioinformatics analyses were used to identify the regulatory network involved in the process of QDF-induced senescence in lung cancer cells, downstream of EGR1 activation. Results: QDF could inhibit the proliferation of lung cancer cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. SA-β-GAL assay showed that QDF can induce lung cancer cells senescence, an increase in QDF concentration led to a significant increase in the number of cells that stained positive in the SA-β-GAL assay in the group exposed to a higher concentration of QDF. Western blot and RT-qPCR analyses indicated that the expression levels of the p53 and p21 proteins in A549 and H1975 cells increased significantly after QDF intervention. Additionally, EGR1-overexpressing can enhance QDF-induced senescence in lung cancer cells. Bioinformatics analyses revealed the EGR1 target genes implicated in QDF-induced senescence in A549 cells, including 21 senescence-related genes. Conclusion: The present study suggests QDF induces cellular senescence through activation of EGR1 in lung cancer cells and provides an insight for understanding the antitumor mechanisms of this Chinese traditional medicine.

Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the senescent microenvironment in bone metastasis

Bone metastasis (BM) is a mortality-related event of late-stage cancer, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being a common origin for BM. However, the detailed molecular profiling of the metastatic bone ecosystem is not fully understood, hindering the development of effective therapies for advanced patients. In this study, we examined the cellular heterogeneity between primary tumours and BM from tissues and peripheral blood by single-cell transcriptomic analysis, which was verified using multiplex immunofluorescence staining and public datasets. Our results demonstrate a senescent microenvironment in BM tissues of NSCLC. BM has a significantly higher infiltration of malignant cells with senescent characteristics relative to primary tumours, accompanied by aggravated metastatic properties. The endothelial-mesenchymal transition involved with SOX18 activation is related to the cellular senescence of vascular endothelial cells from BM. CD4Tstr cells, with pronounced stress and senescence states, are preferentially infiltrated in BM, indicating stress-related dysfunction contributing to the immunocompromised environment during tumour metastasis to bone. Moreover, we identify the SPP1 pathway-induced cellular crosstalk among T cells, vascular ECs and malignant cells in BM, which activates SOX18 and deteriorates patient survival. Our findings highlight the roles of cellular senescence in modulating the microenvironment of BM and implicate anti-senescence therapy for advanced NSCLC patients.

Remodeling of tumor microenvironment by cellular senescence and immunosenescence in cervical cancer

Cellular senescence is a response to various stress signals, which is characterized by stable cell cycle arrest, alterations in cellular morphology, metabolic reprogramming and production of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). When it occurs in the immune system, it is called immunosenescence. Cervical cancer is a common gynecological malignancy, and cervical cancer screening is generally recommended before the age of 65. Elderly women (≥65 years) are more often diagnosed with advanced disease and have poorer prognosis compared to younger patients. Despite extensive research, the tumor microenvironment requires more in-depth exploration, particularly in elderly patients. In cervical cancer, senescent cells have a double-edged sword effect on tumor progression. Induction of preneoplastic cell senescence prevents tumor initiation, and several treatment approaches of cervical cancer act in part by inducing cancer cell senescence. However, senescent immune cell populations within the tumor microenvironment facilitate tumor development, recurrence, treatment resistance, etc. Amplification of beneficial effects and inhibition of aging-related pro-tumorigenic pathways contribute to improving antitumor effects. This review discusses senescent cancer and immune cells present in the tumor microenvironment of cervical cancer and how these senescent cells and their SASP remodel the tumor microenvironment, influence antitumor immunity and tumor initiation and development. Moreover, we discuss the significance of senotherapeutics that enable to eliminate senescent cells and prevent tumor progression and development through improving antitumor immunity and affecting the tumor microenvironment.

Senescence as a therapeutic target in cancer and age-related diseases

Cellular senescence is a stress response that restrains the growth of aged, damaged or abnormal cells. Thus, senescence has a crucial role in development, tissue maintenance and cancer prevention. However, lingering senescent cells fuel chronic inflammation through the acquisition of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which contributes to cancer and age-related tissue dysfunction. Recent progress in understanding senescence has spurred interest in the development of approaches to target senescent cells, known as senotherapies. In this Review, we evaluate the status of various types of senotherapies, including senolytics that eliminate senescent cells, senomorphics that suppress the SASP, interventions that mitigate senescence and strategies that harness the immune system to clear senescent cells. We also summarize how these approaches can be combined with cancer therapies, and we discuss the challenges and opportunities in moving senotherapies into clinical practice. Such therapies have the potential to address root causes of age-related diseases and thus open new avenues for preventive therapies and treating multimorbidities.

The interplay between cell death and senescence in cancer

Cellular senescence is a state of permanent proliferative arrest that occurs in response to DNA damage-inducing endogenous and exogenous stresses, and is often accompanied by dynamic molecular changes such as a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Accumulating evidence indicates that age-associated increases in the upstream and downstream signals of regulated cell death, including apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, are closely related to the induction of cellular senescence and its phenotype. Furthermore, elevated levels of pro-inflammatory SASP factors with aging can be both a cause and consequence of several cell death modes, suggesting the reciprocal effects of cellular senescence and cells undergoing regulated cell death. Here, we review the critical molecular pathways of the regulated cell death forms and describe the crosstalk between aging-related signals and cancer. In addition, we discuss how targeting regulated cell death could be harnessed in therapeutic interventions for cancer. ABBREVIATIONS: Abbreviations that are not standard in this field are defined at their first occurrence in the article and are used consistently throughout the article.

Identifying specific functional roles for senescence across cell types

Cellular senescence plays critical roles in aging, regeneration, and disease; yet, the ability to discern its contributions across various cell types to these biological processes remains limited. In this study, we generated an in vivo genetic toolbox consisting of three p16Ink4a-related intersectional genetic systems, enabling pulse-chase tracing (Sn-pTracer), Cre-based tracing and ablation (Sn-cTracer), and gene manipulation combined with tracing (Sn-gTracer) of defined p16Ink4a+ cell types. Using liver injury and repair as an example, we found that macrophages and endothelial cells (ECs) represent distinct senescent cell populations with different fates and functions during liver fibrosis and repair. Notably, clearance of p16Ink4a+ macrophages significantly mitigates hepatocellular damage, whereas eliminating p16Ink4a+ ECs aggravates liver injury. Additionally, targeted reprogramming of p16Ink4a+ ECs through Kdr overexpression markedly reduces liver fibrosis. This study illuminates the functional diversity of p16Ink4a+ cells and offers insights for developing cell-type-specific senolytic therapies in the future.

Genetic origins, regulators, and biomarkers of cellular senescence

This review comprehensively examines the molecular biology and genetic origins of cellular senescence. We focus on various cellular stressors and pathways leading to senescence, including recent advances in the understanding of the genetic influences driving senescence, such as telomere attrition, chemotherapy-induced DNA damage, pathogens, oncogene activation, and cellular and metabolic stress. This review also highlights the complex interplay of various signaling and metabolic pathways involved in cellular senescence and provides insights into potential therapeutic targets for aging-related diseases. Furthermore, this review outlines future research directions to deepen our understanding of senescence biology and develop effective interventions targeting senescent cells (SnCs).

Emerging strategies to investigate the biology of early cancer

Early detection and intervention of cancer or precancerous lesions hold great promise to improve patient survival. However, the processes of cancer initiation and the normal-precancer-cancer progression within a non-cancerous tissue context remain poorly understood. This is, in part, due to the scarcity of early-stage clinical samples or suitable models to study early cancer. In this Review, we introduce clinical samples and model systems, such as autochthonous mice and organoid-derived or stem cell-derived models that allow longitudinal analysis of early cancer development. We also present the emerging techniques and computational tools that enhance our understanding of cancer initiation and early progression, including direct imaging, lineage tracing, single-cell and spatial multi-omics, and artificial intelligence models. Together, these models and techniques facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the poorly characterized early malignant transformation cascade, holding great potential to unveil key drivers and early biomarkers for cancer development. Finally, we discuss how these new insights can potentially be translated into mechanism-based strategies for early cancer detection and prevention.

Drug delivery for age-related bone diseases: From therapeutic targets to common and emerging therapeutic strategies

With the accumulation of knowledge on aging, people have gradually realized that among the many factors that cause individual aging, the accumulation of aging cells is an essential cause of organ degeneration and, ultimately, age-related diseases. Most cells present in the bone microenvironment gradually age over time, leading to an imbalance of osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, adipogenesis, and chondrogenesis. This imbalance contributes to age-related bone loss and the development of age-related bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. Bone aging can prolong the lifespan and delay the development of age-related diseases. Nanoparticles have controllable and stable physical and chemical properties and can precisely target different tissues and organs. By preparing multiple easily modified and biocompatible nanoparticles as different drug delivery carriers, specifically targeting various diseased tissues for controlled-release and sustained-release administration, the delivery efficiency of drugs can be significantly improved, and the toxicity and side effects of drugs can be substantially reduced, thereby improving the therapeutic effect of age-related bone diseases. In addition, other novel anti-aging strategies (such as stem cell exosomes) also have significant scientific and practical significance in anti-aging research on age-related bone diseases. This article reviews the research progress of various nano-drug-loaded particles and emerging anti-aging methods for treating age-related bone diseases, offering new insights and directions for precise targeted clinical therapies.

LPS-induced senescence of macrophages aggravates calcification and senescence of vascular smooth muscle cells via IFITM3

BACKGROUND

Cellular senescence, macrophages infiltration, and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) osteogenic transdifferentiation participate in the pathophysiology of vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Senescent macrophages are involved in the regulation of inflammation in pathological diseases. In addition, senescent cells spread senescence to neighboring cells via Interferon-induced transmembrane protein3 (IFITM3). However, the role of senescent macrophages and IFITM3 in VSMCs calcification remains unexplored.

AIMS

To explore the hypothesis that senescent macrophages contribute to the calcification and senescence of VSMCs via IFITM3.

METHODS

Here, the macrophage senescence model was established using Lipopolysaccharides (LPS). The VSMCs were subjected to supernatants from macrophages (MCFS) or LPS-induced macrophages (LPS-MCFS) in the presence or absence of calcifying media (CM). Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), Alizarin red (AR), immunofluorescent staining, and western blot were used to identify cell senescence and calcification.

RESULTS

The expression of IFITM3 was significantly increased in LPS-induced macrophages and the supernatants. The VSMCs transdifferentiated into osteogenic phenotype, expressing higher osteogenic differentiation markers (RUNX2) and lower VSMCs constructive makers (SM22α) when cultured with senescent macrophages supernatants. Also, senescence markers (p16 and p21) in VSMCs were significantly increased by senescent macrophages supernatants treated. However, IFITM3 knockdown inhibited this process.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that LPS-induced senescence of macrophages accelerated the calcification of VSMCs via IFITM3. These data provide a new perspective linking VC and aging, which may provide clues for diagnosing and treating accelerated vascular aging in patients with CKD.

Photoacoustic polydopamine-indocyanine green (PDA-ICG) nanoprobe for detection of senescent cells

Cellular senescence is considered an important tumour suppression mechanism in response to damage and oncogenic stress in early lesions. However, when senescent cells are not immune-cleared and persist in the tumour microenvironment, they can drive a variety of tumour-promoting activities, including cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. Additionally, there is compelling evidence demonstrating a direct connection between chemo(radio)therapy-induced senescence and the development of drug resistance and cancer recurrence. Therefore, detection of senescent cells in tissues holds great promise for predicting cancer occurrence earlier, assessing tumour progression, aiding patient stratification and prognosis, and informing about the efficacy of potential senotherapies. However, effective detection of senescent cells is limited by lack of biomarkers and readout strategies suitable for in vivo clinical imaging. To this end, a nanoprobe composed of biocompatible polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticle doped with FDA-approved indocyanine green (ICG) dye, namely PDA-ICG, was designed as a contrast agent for senescence detection using photoacoustic imaging (PAI). In an in vitro model of chemotherapy-induced senescence, PDA-ICG nanoprobe showed an elevated uptake in senescent cells relative to cancer cells. In addition to its improved photostability, 2.5-fold enhancement in photoacoustic signal relative to ICG was observed. Collectively, the results indicate that the PDA-ICG nanoprobe has the potential to be used as a contrast agent for senescence detection of chemotherapy-induced senescence using PAI.

Emerging insights in senescence: pathways from preclinical models to therapeutic innovations

Senescence is a crucial hallmark of ageing and a significant contributor to the pathology of age-related disorders. As committee members of the young International Cell Senescence Association (yICSA), we aim to synthesise recent advancements in the identification, characterisation, and therapeutic targeting of senescence for clinical translation. We explore novel molecular techniques that have enhanced our understanding of senescent cell heterogeneity and their roles in tissue regeneration and pathology. Additionally, we delve into in vivo models of senescence, both non-mammalian and mammalian, to highlight tools available for advancing the contextual understanding of in vivo senescence. Furthermore, we discuss innovative diagnostic tools and senotherapeutic approaches, emphasising their potential for clinical application. Future directions of senescence research are explored, underscoring the need for precise, context-specific senescence classification and the integration of advanced technologies such as machine learning, long-read sequencing, and multifunctional senoprobes and senolytics. The dual role of senescence in promoting tissue homoeostasis and contributing to chronic diseases highlights the complexity of targeting these cells for improved clinical outcomes.

Convergent evolution of senescent fibroblasts in fibrosis and cancer with aging

Aging is associated with stereotyped changes in the tissue microenvironment that increase susceptibility to diseases of the elderly, including organ fibrosis and cancer. From a tissue perspective, fibrosis and cancer can both be viewed as non-healing wounds with pathogenic activation of tissue repair pathways in the stroma. If fibrosis and cancer represent an example of the convergent evolution of maladaptive stromal responses in distinct pathologies, what are the analogous cell types that might emerge in both diseases that share similarities in identity and function? In this review, we explore how senescent fibroblasts form a nexus that connects the aging organ with both fibrosis and cancer. The advent of single cell sequencing, coupled with improved detection of cell types with senescent traits in vivo, have allowed us to identify senescent fibroblasts with similar identities in both fibrosis and cancer that share pro-fibrotic programs. In addition to their ability to reorganize the extracellular matrix in diseased states, these pro-fibrotic senescent fibroblasts can also promote epithelial reprogramming and immune rewiring, which drive disease progression in fibrosis and cancer. Finally, the identification of common pathogenic cell types in fibrosis and cancer also presents a therapeutic opportunity to target both diseases with a shared approach.

Combined targeting of senescent cells and senescent macrophages: A new idea for integrated treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Macrophages play a key role in the immune response and the tumour microenvironment. As an important member of the immune system, macrophages have multiple functions, including phagocytosis and clearance of pathogens, modulation of inflammatory responses, and participation in tissue repair and regeneration. In lung cancer, macrophages are considered to be the major cellular component of the tumor-associated inflammatory response and are closely associated with tumorigenesis, progression and metastasis. However, macrophages gradually undergo a senescence process with age and changes in pathological states. Macrophage senescence is an important change in the functional and metabolic state of macrophages and may have a significant impact on lung cancer development. In lung cancer, senescent macrophages interact with other cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by secreting senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors, which can either promote the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of tumor cells or exert anti-tumor effects through reprogramming or clearance under specific conditions. Therefore, senescent macrophages are considered important potential targets for lung cancer therapy. In this paper, a systematic review of macrophages and their senescence process, and their role in tumors is presented. A variety of inhibitory strategies against senescent macrophages, including enhancing autophagy, inhibiting SASP, reducing DNA damage, and modulating metabolic pathways, were also explored. These strategies are expected to improve lung cancer treatment outcomes by restoring the anti-tumor function of macrophages.

DAMPs in immunosenescence and cancer

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous molecules released by cells in response to injury or stress, recognized by host pattern recognition receptors that assess the immunological significance of cellular damage. The interaction between DAMPs and innate immune receptors triggers sterile inflammation, which serves a dual purpose: promoting tissue repair and contributing to pathological conditions, including age-related diseases. Chronic inflammation mediated by DAMPs accelerates immunosenescence and influences both tumor progression and anti-tumor immunity, underscoring the critical role of DAMPs in the nexus between aging and cancer. This review explores the characteristics of immunosenescence and its impact on age-related cancers, investigates the various types of DAMPs, their release mechanisms during cell death, and the immune activation pathways they initiate. Additionally, we examine the therapeutic potential of targeting DAMPs in age-related diseases. A detailed understanding of DAMP-induced signal transduction could provide critical insights into immune regulation and support the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Targeting KIFC1 Promotes Senescence in Soft Tissue Sarcoma via FXR1-Dependent Regulation of MAD2L1 mRNA Stability

Patients diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) often present at intermediate to advanced stages, with inherently limited therapeutic options available. There is an urgent need to identify novel therapeutic targets. In this study, by screening STS data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases, KIFC1 is identified as a potential biomarker and a promising therapeutic target for STS. Notably, a significant increase in KIFC1 levels, which exhibited a strong correlation with a poor prognosis in STS patients is observed. The findings revealed that knockout of KIFC1 suppressed STS growth both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, KIFC1 is found to regulate cellular senescence in STS, which has not been reported before. that targeting KIFC1 induced cellular senescence via interacting with FXR1, an RNA-binding protein is discovered, thereby further stabilizing MAD2L1 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner. Additionally, the suppression of KIFC1 markedly diminished the growth of patient-derived xenografts (PDX) and triggered senescence. This study provides the first evidence that KIFC1 inhibition induces cellular senescence through MAD2L1, underscoring KIFC1 as a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for STS.

Ferroptosis and immunosenescence in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC), ranked as the globe's third leading malignancy. Despite advancements in therapeutic approaches, the mortality rate remains distressingly high for those afflicted with advanced stages of the disease. Ferroptosis is a programmed form of cell death. The ways of ferroptosis mainly include promoting the accumulation of cellular ROS and increasing the level of cellular Labile iron pool (LIP). Immunosenescence is characterized by a gradual deterioration of the immune system's ability to respond to pathogens and maintain surveillance against cancer cells. In CRC, this decline is exacerbated by the tumor microenvironment, which can suppress the immune response and promote tumor progression. This paper reviews the relationship between iron prolapse and immune senescence in colorectal cancer, focusing on the following aspects: firstly, the different pathways that induce iron prolapse in colorectal cancer; secondly, immune-immune senescence in colorectal cancer; and lastly, the interactions between immune senescence and iron prolapse in colorectal cancer, e.g., immune-immune senescent cells often exhibit increased oxidative stress, leading to the accumulation of ROS, and consequently to lipid peroxidation and induction of iron-induced cell death. At the same time, ferroptosis induces immune cell senescence as well as alterations in the immune microenvironment by promoting the death of damaged or diseased cells and leading to the inflammation usually associated with it. In conclusion, by exploring the potential targets of ferroptosis and immune senescence in colorectal cancer therapy, we hope to provide a reference for future research.

Molecular signaling and clinical implications in the human aging-cancer cycle

It is well documented that aging is associated with cancer, and likewise, cancer survivors display accelerated aging. As the number of aging individuals and cancer survivors continues to grow, it raises additional concerns across society. Therefore, unraveling the molecular mechanisms of aging in tissues is essential to developing effective therapies to fight the aging and cancer diseases in cancer survivors and cancer patients. Indeed, cellular senescence is a critical response, or a natural barrier to suppress the transition of normal cells into cancer cells, however, hypoxia which is physiologically required to maintain the stem cell niche, is increased by aging and inhibits senescence in tissues. Interestingly, oxygen restriction or hypoxia increases longevity and slows the aging process in humans, but hypoxia can also drive angiogenesis to facilitate cancer progression. In addition, cancer treatment is considered as one of the major reasons that drive cellular senescence, subsequently followed by accelerated aging. Several clinical trials have recently evaluated inhibitors to eliminate senescent cells. However, some mechanisms of aging typically can also retard cancer cell growth and progression, which might require careful strategy for better clinical outcomes. Here we describe the molecular regulation of aging and cancer in crosstalk with DNA damage and hypoxia signaling pathways in cancer patients and cancer survivors. We also update several therapeutic strategies that might be critical in reversing the cancer treatment-associated aging process.

Hematopoietic aging promotes cancer by fueling IL-1⍺-driven emergency myelopoiesis

Age is a major risk factor for cancer, but how aging impacts tumor control remains unclear. In this study, we establish that aging of the immune system, regardless of the age of the stroma and tumor, drives lung cancer progression. Hematopoietic aging enhances emergency myelopoiesis, resulting in the local accumulation of myeloid progenitor-like cells in lung tumors. These cells are a major source of interleukin (IL)-1⍺, which drives the enhanced myeloid response. The age-associated decline of DNA methyltransferase 3A enhances IL-1⍺ production, and disrupting IL-1 receptor 1 signaling early during tumor development normalized myelopoiesis and slowed the growth of lung, colonic, and pancreatic tumors. In human tumors, we identified an enrichment for IL-1⍺-expressing monocyte-derived macrophages linked to age, poorer survival, and recurrence, unraveling how aging promotes cancer and offering actionable therapeutic strategies.

Senescence-related genes as prognostic indicators in breast cancer survival

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide, particularly affecting those in their later years. As the incidence of breast cancer increases with age, understanding the biological mechanisms that link aging and cancer becomes crucial. Cellular senescence, a hallmark of aging, plays a dual role in cancer by inhibiting tumorigenesis while also contributing to tumor progression through the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This study aims to investigate the prognostic significance of senescence-related genes in breast cancer. We utilized the SenMayo gene list, a comprehensive set of senescence-related genes, to analyze gene expression data from a large cohort of breast cancer samples. The data was sourced from the Kaplan-Meier plotter, an integrated database that compiles gene expression information from multiple independent cohorts. Cox proportional hazards regression and false discovery rate (FDR) corrections were employed to evaluate the correlation between gene expression and survival outcomes, aiming to establish a prognostic signature. Our findings demonstrate that higher expression levels of senescence-related genes are significantly associated with improved survival, while lower expression levels correlate with shorter survival outcomes. These results suggest that senescence-related pathways play a protective role in breast cancer, potentially serving as valuable prognostic indicators. The identification of a prognostic signature based on senescence-related genes underscores the importance of cellular senescence in breast cancer progression and survival. Our study highlights the potential of senescence-related biomarkers in enhancing patient stratification and informing treatment strategies, contributing to the growing body of literature on the intersection of aging and cancer.

A new model and precious tool to study molecular mechanisms of macrophage aging

The accumulation of senescent cells, characterized by a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), contributes to chronic inflammation and age-related diseases (ARD). During aging, macrophages can adopt a senescent-like phenotype and an altered function, which promotes senescent cell accumulation. In the context of aging and ARD, controlling the resolution of the inflammatory response and preventing chronic inflammation, especially by targeting macrophages, must be a priority. Aging being a dynamic process, we developed a model of in vitro murine peritoneal macrophage aging. Our results show that macrophages cultured for 7 or 14 days exhibit a senescence-like phenotype: proliferation decrease, the levels of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p16INK4A and p21CIP1 and of pro-inflammatory SASP components (MCP-1, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and MMP-9) increase, phagocytosis capacity decline and glycolytic activity is induced. In our model, chronic treatment with CB3, a thioredoxin-1 mimetic anti-inflammatory peptide, completely prevents p21CIP1 increase and enables day 14 macrophages to maintain proliferative activity.We describe a new model of macrophage aging with a senescence-like phenotype associated with inflammatory, metabolic and functional perturbations. This model is a valuable tool for characterizing macrophage aging mechanisms and developing innovative strategies with promising therapeutical purpose in limiting inflammaging and ARD.

Prognostic significance of a signature based on senescence-related genes in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer, recognized as a quintessential age-related disease, underscores the intricate interplay between aging mechanisms and disease pathogenesis. Cellular senescence, a DNA damage-induced cellular stress response, is characterized by cell cycle arrest, the expression of an inflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype, and alterations in extracellular matrix metabolism. It is widely recognized as a fundamental and evolutionarily conserved mechanism of aging. Guided by geroscience principles, which assert that the pathogenesis of age-related diseases involves cellular mechanisms of aging, this study delves into the role of senescence-related genes in colon cancer progression. Leveraging a gene set reflective of senescence-associated pathways, we employed uni- and multivariate Cox proportional hazards survival analysis combined with the determination of the false discovery rate to analyze correlations between gene expression and survival. The integrated database of 1130 colon cancer specimens with available relapse-free survival time and relapse event data from ten independent cohorts provided a robust platform for survival analyses. We identified senescence-related genes associated with differential expression levels linked to shorter survival. Our findings unveil a prognostic signature utilizing cellular senescence-related genes (hazard ratio: 2.73, 95% CI 2.12-3.52, p = 6.4E - 16), offering valuable insights into survival prediction in colon cancer. Multivariate analysis underscored the independence of the senescence-related signature from available epidemiological and pathological variables. This study highlights the potential of senescence-related genes as prognostic biomarkers. Overall, our results underscore the pivotal role of cellular senescence, a fundamental mechanism of aging, in colon cancer progression.