Zombie cells in the body: what they are and why they could be accelerating aging.

Although they appear harmless, these biological structures affect key organs and are linked to chronic diseases and progressive deterioration of the human body.

                                                                                         

In the field of research on aging and age-related diseases, a recurring theme has been the impact of senescent cells, also known as "zombie cells."

These cells, which stop dividing but do not die, have been linked to a wide range of chronic diseases and degenerative processes.

According to Dr. James Kirkland of the Mayo Clinic, these cells have captured the attention of the scientific community due to their progressive accumulation in the human body and their association with diseases such as Alzheimer's, type 2 diabetes, pulmonary fibrosis, and osteoarthritis, among others.

The concept of senescent cells is not new. They were first identified in the 1960s, but their relevance to aging and associated diseases has gained prominence in the last two decades.

These cells, although harmful in excess, perform essential functions in the body, such as wound healing and cancer prevention.

                                                                                      

As Dr. James Kirkland of the Mayo Clinic explained to the Telegraph, the molecules produced by these cells are essential in processes such as childbirth and in stopping cells with cancer-causing mutations.

However, over time, their accumulation can lead to chronic inflammation and contribute to tissue and organ deterioration.

The impact of these cells on the human body is broad and affects multiple systems. In the brain, for example, research supported by the U.S. National Institute on Aging has shown that Alzheimer's patients have a higher number of senescent cells compared to cognitively healthy individuals.

 These cells are associated with the formation of toxic tangles of the tau protein, a hallmark of the disease. In the joints, their accumulation in cartilage and soft tissues can cause inflammation and stiffness, contributing to the development of osteoarthritis.

                                                                                               

In organs such as the liver and kidneys, these cells have been linked to loss of function and the formation of scar tissue, which can complicate procedures such as transplants.

The accumulation of senescent cells also has implications for metabolic diseases. According to a statement to the Telegraph by Dr. Stijn Meijnikman of the Amsterdam University Medical Center, these cells are present in internal organs, adipose tissue, and the gut, contributing to the development of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

                                                                                            

Furthermore, in the eyes, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light can convert lens epithelial cells into senescent cells, which promotes the development of cataracts.

Given this situation, science has begun to explore ways to combat the negative effects of these cells. One of the most promising strategies is the development of senolytic drugs, designed to selectively eliminate senescent cells.

According to a study conducted by The Lancet, these drugs have shown encouraging results in preclinical studies, delaying or alleviating aging-related disorders.

Among the most studied compounds are dasatinib, a drug used in chemotherapy, and the flavonoids quercetin and fisetin, present in fruits and vegetables.

Research led by Dr. Kirkland has shown that these drugs can improve physical function in patients with chronic lung diseases and reduce inflammation in animal models.

                                                                                               

However, the path to clinical application of senolytics still faces challenges. Although animal studies have shown significant improvements in health and longevity, experts, including Dr. Kirkland, warn of the potential risks of these treatments in humans.

Long-term safety and potential adverse effects are areas that require further research before these drugs can be widely used.

In addition to senolytics, other strategies are being explored to mitigate the effects of senescent cells.

According to a Mayo Clinic study, regular physical activity may help reduce the accumulation of these cells by stimulating the immune system.

                                                                                             

On the other hand, factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and prolonged unprotected sun exposure can accelerate their formation.

In the cardiovascular system, senescent cells also play a crucial role. According to an analysis published in JACC Family Series, these cells contribute to the development of diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart failure.

                                                                                        

Senolytics have shown potential to reduce the burden of these cells in animal models, improving cardiac and vascular function.

However, researchers emphasize the need to identify specific markers that allow for a more precise approach to treating these conditions.

Research on senescent cells not only seeks to improve health in old age, but also to address serious diseases such as cancer.