Table 3.
Some Major Differences Between Senolytics and Senomorphics
| Feature | Senolytics | Senomorphics | References |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Compounds that selectively induce apoptosis in senescent cells, leading to their elimination. | Compounds that modulate the phenotype of senescent cells without killing them, primarily by suppressing harmful secretions. | [36,37] |
| Mechanism of Action | Induce apoptosis in senescent cells, leading to their elimination. | Modulate senescent cell behavior without killing them, primarily by suppressing SASP. | [49,65] |
| Therapeutic Goal | Remove senescent cells to reduce their harmful effects on aging and disease. | Preserve senescent cells while minimizing their pro-inflammatory and deleterious effects. | [50,119] |
| Target Cells | Specifically targets and eliminates senescent cells. | Alters the function of senescent cells without clearing them. | [141] |
| Key Molecular Targets | BCL-2 family proteins, PI3K/AKT, FOXO, p53 pathways (apoptosis regulators). | NF-κB, mTOR, SIRT1, p53/p21 pathways (inflammatory and metabolic regulators). | [31,142]] |
| Effect on SASP | Eliminates SASP-producing cells, thereby reducing systemic inflammation. | Suppresses SASP production while maintaining beneficial senescence functions. | [143] |
| Examples of Agents | Dasatinib, Quercetin, Fisetin, Navitoclax (ABT-263). | Metformin, Rapamycin, Resveratrol, Curcumin. | [130,141] |
| Potential Benefits | Clears damaged cells, improving tissue function and lifespan. | Reduces chronic inflammation, enhances tissue repair, and improves metabolic function. | [36,65] |
| Associated Risks | Risk of excessive cell depletion, potential toxicity, and off-target effects. | May require long-term use, as it does not eliminate senescent cells completely. | [4,119] |
| Therapeutic Applications | Used in conditions where removing senescent cells is beneficial, such as osteoarthritis, fibrosis, and neurodegeneration. | Suitable for diseases where senescent cell modification is preferred, such as metabolic disorders and neuroprotection. | [144] |
| Mode of Administration | Typically administered intermittently to avoid excessive depletion of senescent cells. | Requires continuous or long-term administration to sustain SASP suppression. | [40] |