Transplantation of Senescent Cells is an Issue in First Generation Stem Cell Therapies

Researchers here demonstrate that comparatively simple regenerative cell therapies, of the sort presently widely used, in which stem cells are derived from adipose tissue, will tend to introduce senescent cells into the recipient in the case of older donors. Senescent cells are constantly created and destroyed in the body, but the processes of clearance decline with age, and these cells are harmful when they linger for the long term: their secreted signals cause chronic inflammation, while also contributing to tissue dysfunction in a number of other ways. The presence of senescent cells in older individuals is one of the contributing causes of degenerative aging, and adding more such cells is something to be avoided. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) or "preadipocytes" have been increasingly suggested for use in regenerative medicine as a treatment for a wide range of diseases due to their multipotency and accessibility. Older adults represent most likely recipients of ADSC therapies given the high burden of diseases in this population. Since autologous ADSCs are preferred in the clinic, it is essential to understand age-related changes influencing these cells. Emerging evidence suggests that ADSCs from aged donors have reduced regenerative potential, leading to diminished therapeutic efficacy. However, it is unknown whether transplanting ADSCs from aged donors might cause unexpected or even harmful effects in recipients. This is especially important for...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs