Subcellular structure, heterogeneity, and plasticity of senescent cells

Abstract

Cellular senescence is a state of permanent growth arrest. It can be triggered by telomere shortening (replicative senescence) or prematurely induced by stresses such as DNA damage, oncogene overactivation, loss of tumor suppressor genes, oxidative stress, tissue factors, and others. Advances in techniques and experimental designs have provided new evidence about the biology of senescent cells (SnCs) and their importance in human health and disease. This review aims to describe the main aspects of SnCs phenotype focusing on alterations in subcellular compartments like plasma membrane, cytoskeleton, organelles, and nuclei. We also discuss the heterogeneity, dynamics, and plasticity of SnCs' phenotype, including the SASP, and pro‐survival mechanisms. We advance on the multiple layers of phenotypic heterogeneity of SnCs, such as the heterogeneity between inducers, tissues and within a population of SnCs, discussing the relevance of these aspects to human health and disease. We also raise the main challenges as well alternatives to overcome them. Ultimately, we present open questions and perspectives in understanding the phenotype of SnCs from the perspective of basic and applied questions.

Exosomes Released from Senescent Cells and Circulatory Exosomes Isolated from Human Plasma Reveal Aging-associated Proteomic and Lipid Signatures

“…In recent years, several studies highlighted that the SASP secreted from senescent cells is highly complex and very heterogeneous depending on tissue type, cell type and origin of senescence or senescence induction [10, 30]. The composition of SASP can vary depending on a wide range of factors, including cell type, senescence-inducing stimuli, and age.…”