Concept
Senotherapeutic
Last updated Sat May 30 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Two branches
Senolytic
Drugs that selectively kill senescent cells while sparing healthy ones, exploiting the senescence-cell anti-apoptotic pathways (SCAPs). Examples:
- Dasatinib + quercetin combination.
- Fisetin.
- Navitoclax (ABT-263): potent but haematologically toxic.
- UBX0101, UBX1325: locally-delivered for joint and eye indications.
- Cardiac glycosides (digoxin, ouabain): newer senolytic class.
Senomorphic
Drugs that silence the SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype) without killing the cells. Examples:
- Rapamycin (the canonical senomorphic).
- JAK inhibitors (ruxolitinib).
- NF-κB inhibitors.
- Metformin has senomorphic effects.
Why the distinction matters
- Senolytics clear the cell burden — potentially lasting effect per intermittent dose; risk of clearing useful senescent populations (wound healing, embryogenesis).
- Senomorphics suppress secretion — continuous use required; spare cell populations but don’t reduce burden.
Current state
- Most senolytic trials use the dasatinib + quercetin combination or fisetin.
- No senotherapeutic is FDA-approved for longevity indications.
- First-in-human pilot data exist for diabetic kidney disease, IPF, AMD, frailty.
Related entries
Senolytics, Fisetin, Cellular senescence, Geroprotector, Unity Biotechnology.
References
- Kirkland, J. L. & Tchkonia, T. Senolytic drugs: from discovery to translation. J. Intern. Med. 288, 518–536 (2020).