Targeting cellular senescence for cancer therapy

Abstract

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, driven by factors, such as lifestyle, chemical exposure, genetic alterations, and aging. Cellular senescence serves as a method for the treatment of cancer, increasing the effectiveness of cancer medicines and improving therapy outcomes for cancer patients. In this review, we examined recent advances in cancer therapy by targeting senescence. We explored strategies involving senescence-targeting agents for improving therapy outcomes. We also discussed the latest findings of senescence induction in preclinical research (in vivo and in vitro). Additionally, we evaluated the applications of these strategies in clinical settings. Finally, we highlighted the challenges and the prospects for a better response to anticancer therapy and inhibition of cancer progression. We expect that more preclinical studies of senescence-targeting agents will be conducted in the future. And the studies will be extended to more types of cancer cells and transitioned to clinical applications to enhance not only the efficacy of chemotherapy but also the survival and quality of life for patients.

Keywords: Cancer; Senescence markers; Senescent cell; Senotherapies; Targeting senescence.