Four faces of cellular senescence

J Cell Biol. 2011 Feb 21;192(4):547-56. doi: 10.1083/jcb.201009094. Epub 2011 Feb 14.

Abstract

Cellular senescence is an important mechanism for preventing the proliferation of potential cancer cells. Recently, however, it has become apparent that this process entails more than a simple cessation of cell growth. In addition to suppressing tumorigenesis, cellular senescence might also promote tissue repair and fuel inflammation associated with aging and cancer progression. Thus, cellular senescence might participate in four complex biological processes (tumor suppression, tumor promotion, aging, and tissue repair), some of which have apparently opposing effects. The challenge now is to understand the senescence response well enough to harness its benefits while suppressing its drawbacks.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging / pathology
  • Animals
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Cellular Senescence*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Models, Biological
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Signal Transduction
  • Wound Healing