Scientists Discover Molecule That Can Eliminate Aging Cells, Potentially Delaying Tissue Aging
Scientists from the UOC and the University of Leicester have made a breakthrough discovery in the field of aging research. They have identified a molecule called CUDC-907 that has the potential to selectively destroy aging, non-functional cells known as senescent cells, without harming healthy cells. This finding could pave the way for delaying tissue aging, improving the quality of life, and potentially extending lifespan.
The accumulation of senescent cells in the body is a natural part of aging. These cells no longer function properly and can adversely affect the surrounding healthy cells. Over time, the buildup of these aging cells can lead to tissue deterioration and aging.
The new molecule, CUDC-907, has shown promising results in laboratory tests, known as in vitro studies. It is also being investigated for its potential anti-cancer effects. The next step for the scientists is to test the molecule in animal models to evaluate its effectiveness.
The discovery of a molecule that can target and eliminate senescent cells is significant. As people age, their immune systems become less efficient at clearing out these cells, leading to their accumulation in tissues. This accumulation impairs tissue function and contributes to the aging process.
Previous studies in animals have demonstrated that the elimination of these senescent cells can improve life expectancy and quality of life. The researchers behind this discovery hope that CUDC-907 could have similar effects in humans.
Lead researcher Professor Salvador Macip, dean of the UOC’s Faculty of Health Sciences and Professor of Molecular Medicine at the University of Leicester, explained the potential dual effect of the molecule. “The drug we identified is a powerful destroyer of old cells and its effect against some cancers is also now being investigated, so it could have a double effect: anti-cancer and at the same time, it could act against old cells that make the cancer reappear.”
In cancer treatment, CUDC-907 is being explored to target cells that survive chemotherapy or radiation and become senescent. By eliminating these cells, the researchers hope to prevent cancer relapses. The molecule could be administered alongside traditional cancer therapies for enhanced efficacy.
The researchers used various models of human cancer cells in their study and found that CUDC-907 efficiently eliminated senescent cells with minimal side effects on healthy cells. Animal testing will be the next step, and if successful, further testing in human subjects will follow.
The potential applications of CUDC-907 extend beyond cancer treatment. The researchers believe that the molecule could also be effective in combating diseases where the accumulation of senescent cells plays a role, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Cleaning out the brain of senescent cells may help slow the progression of the disease.
Professor Macip expressed his hope for the future application of the molecule. “Perhaps an intensive dose of the drug would clean the brain and prevent the disease from progressing. It could also be useful in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, to slow its progress, rather than the aging itself.”
The study, titled “Characterization of the HDAC/PI3K Inhibitor CUDC-907 as a Novel Senolytic,” has been published in the journal Aging. The researchers are eager to continue their investigations and bring this promising molecule closer to potential clinical use in the fight against aging and age-related diseases.