What is Senolytics? Benefits, Dosage, and Senescence Support

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- Updated by Jody Mullis
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sidra Samad

  • Discover senolytics, drugs that selectively target senescent cells to combat age-related issues. Learn about their benefits, dosage, and support for cellular senescence.

 

What is Senolytics? It’s a rapidly growing field of research that has shown immense promise in slowing down the negative effects of ageing. As we get older, cells in our body lose the ability to divide and function properly—these are called senescent cells. They don’t just stop working; they also secrete harmful compounds that can affect the surrounding cells, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. Over time, these senescent cells accumulate, contributing to a wide range of age-related conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer.

The idea behind senolytics is simple but powerful: by using specific compounds to eliminate senescent cells, we can help the body repair itself and maintain better function as we age.

Recent advances in senolytic research have demonstrated significant improvements in health outcomes, particularly concerning cellular senescence. By clearing these "zombie cells," senolytics may effectively reduce inflammation, promote tissue regeneration, and potentially extend healthspan, enhancing the time spent in optimal health and well-being. Several natural compounds, such as Fisetin and Quercetin, have shown promising results in both animal and human studies, and they are key ingredients in our Senolytic 8 supplement. These compounds work by focusing on the mechanisms that allow senescent cells to survive, effectively clearing them from the body without harming healthy cells.

At Longevity Box, we’re committed to providing only the purest, most effective supplements. Every batch of our products is third-party tested to ensure it's free from fillers and binders, offering only active ingredients for optimal results. Our 700-day purity guarantee reflects our dedication to delivering the highest quality supplements. 

Interested in learning more about how senolytics can support your health? Dive into the comprehensive guide that follows to explore how these innovative compounds work, their benefits, and how to use them safely to boost your health and lifespan.

 

 

What Are Senolytics?

Senolytics are a class of compounds designed to target and eliminate senescent cells, which are cells that have stopped dividing but remain metabolically active. Normally, cells become senescent as part of a natural response to damage or stress, such as DNA mutations or infection, and help protect the body by stopping the spread of damaged cells. In youth, the body efficiently clears senescent cells, but as we age, this process slows down, leading to an accumulation of senescent cells. This buildup is linked to various age-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, and even cancer.

The problem with senescent cells is that, although they no longer divide, they secrete harmful substances like pro-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and proteases. These secretions damage surrounding tissues and promote chronic inflammation, a process often referred to as inflammaging. Over time, this can impair tissue function, contribute to cellular senescence, and accelerate the ageing process. This is where senolytics come in. By selectively eliminating these harmful cells, senolytics offer a powerful way to reduce the negative effects of ageing and promote overall health.

In fact, research on mice has shown that clearing senescent cells can substantially extend both lifespan and healthspan. For instance, a study published in Nature Medicine demonstrated that treating mice with senolytics not only reduced the senescent cell burden but also enhanced physical function and significantly extended their remaining lifespan.

 

 

How Do Senolytics Work?

Senolytics work by selectively inducing cell death in senescent cells, leaving healthy cells intact. These compounds target specific pathways that senescent cells rely on to survive, such as the BCL-2 and PI3K/AKT pathways. These pathways prevent apoptosis (a form of programmed cell death) in senescent cells, allowing them to persist in tissues and cause harm over time. By inhibiting these survival mechanisms, senolytics trigger the elimination of senescent cells from the body, reducing inflammation and tissue damage.

One of the key advantages of senolytics is their ability to act selectively. This means they target senescent cells without affecting healthy cells, making them a safer option compared to other treatments that might damage healthy tissue. Research on mice has shown that senolytic compounds, such as Quercetin, Fisetin, and Theaflavins can effectively clear senescent cells and improve overall health. For example, a A 2018 study found that fisetin, a flavonoid commonly found in strawberries and apples, was particularly potent in eliminating senescent cells and improving tissue health in aged mice, ultimately extending both their healthspan and lifespan.

Senolytic 8 from Longevity Box is carefully formulated with eight synergistic compounds, each playing a role in enhancing senolytic activity:

  • Fisetin: Sourced naturally from strawberries and apples, Fisetin has demonstrated significant senolytic potential by promoting apoptosis in senescent cells.
  • Quercetin: Found in , Quercetin works synergistically with other compounds to target senescent cells, particularly in combination with Fisetin.
  • Theaflavins: Derived from fermented black tea, Theaflavins provide additional antioxidant support while targeting senescent cells.
  • Vitamin E (as D-Alpha tocopherol): An essential antioxidant, Vitamin E protects healthy cells while aiding in reducing inflammation caused by senescent cells.
  • Gamma Tocotrienol: Another member of the Vitamin E family, Gamma Tocotrienol enhances the senolytic effects and supports cardiovascular health.
  • N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC): An amino acid known for its antioxidant properties, NAC helps detoxify the body while supporting the reduction of oxidative stress linked to senescent cells.
  • Myricetin: A bioflavonoid from fruits and vegetables, Myricetin aids in cellular health and further supports the senolytic effects of other compounds in the formula.
  • Green Tea Extract (EGCG): Known for its powerful antioxidant properties, Green Tea Extract also contributes to cellular health by reducing oxidative damage and supporting senescent cell clearance.

Furthermore, senolytics have shown promise in addressing multiple types of senescent cells, including endothelial cells (which line blood vessels), immune cells, and senescent glial cells (important for brain function). By working at a cellular level, senolytics can significantly improve tissue repair, reduce chronic inflammation, and enhance overall resilience to stressors linked to ageing.

 

 

Potential Health Benefits of Senolytics

The potential health benefits of senolytics are far-reaching, particularly in terms of their ability to combat age-related diseases. By clearing senescent cells, senolytics can reduce the chronic inflammation that drives many of these conditions, improving tissue function and overall healthspan.

1. Cardiovascular Health

One of the most promising areas of research on senolytics is their impact on cardiovascular health. As we age, senescent endothelial cells accumulate in blood vessels, contributing to arterial stiffness, hypertension, and increased risk of heart disease. Senolytic treatment has been shown to reduce the number of these cells, improving blood vessel function and lowering the risk of age-related cardiovascular issues. A study on mice demonstrated that senolytic therapy could rejuvenate blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and reduced risk of heart disease.

2. Joint Health

Senescent cells also play a role in the development of osteoarthritis, as they secrete pro-inflammatory molecules that degrade cartilage. By removing these cells, senolytic therapies may help slow or even reverse the progression of osteoarthritis. Animal studies suggest that senolytics like Quercetin can reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility in cases of osteoarthritis​.

3. Improved Immune Function

With age, the immune system becomes less efficient at clearing senescent cells, leading to a cycle of increased senescent cell accumulation and reduced immune response. Senolytic drugs help break this cycle by enhancing the immune system's ability to remove dysfunctional cells, leading to better overall immune function. Studies have shown that senolytics can help rejuvenate immune cells, potentially lowering the risk of infections and boosting the body's defence against diseases like cancer.

4. Increased Healthspan

Perhaps the most exciting potential benefit of senolytic treatment is its ability to extend healthspan—the period of life spent in good health. By reducing inflammaging and improving tissue function, senolytics can help people maintain better physical and cognitive health as they age. In animal studies, regular senolytic treatment has been shown to increase lifespan and delay the onset of age-related diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's​.

Key Takeaways:

  • Improved cardiovascular health through the clearance of senescent cells in blood vessels.
  • Reduced inflammation and joint pain, particularly in age-related conditions like osteoarthritis.
  • Enhanced immune function by reducing senescent cell accumulation and supporting immune cell rejuvenation.
  • Extended healthspan, allowing individuals to enjoy better health for longer periods.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Senolytics

Although senolytics hold great promise for targeting senescent cells and improving health and lifespan, it is essential to understand the potential risks and side effects. Most studies on senolytic compounds have been conducted in animal models, particularly mice, so the effects in humans are not yet fully understood. While early trials show significant benefits, including the selective elimination of senescent cells, human clinical trials of senolytics are still in their infancy. This means the long-term safety profiles remain unclear.

Several potential side effects have been noted in both preclinical and early clinical research. For example, some participants in human studies reported mild symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and digestive discomfort when taking senolytic agents like Quercetin and Dasatinib. However, these side effects were generally temporary and resolved without the need for further intervention. More severe adverse effects have not yet been documented, but it is crucial to monitor these therapies as research progresses​.

Moreover, the Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve senolytic drugs for widespread use, which adds another layer of caution. Given the novelty of these compounds, there is still much to learn about how different senolytics affect various cell types and how they interact with other medications. For instance, there is concern that senolytics might unintentionally affect healthy cells or interfere with treatments for conditions like cancer or cardiovascular disease.

It's also important to consider that senescent cells, while problematic in excess, do serve beneficial roles in wound healing and preventing the spread of damaged cells. Therefore, eliminating too many of these cells could potentially have unintended consequences. As a result, researchers are exploring ways to develop senolytic therapies that can target specific tissues without affecting others.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mild side effects such as nausea and fatigue have been reported in early trials.
  • Long-term effects are not fully known due to the limited number of human studies.
  • More research is needed to confirm the safety of senolytic compounds in humans.
  • It's crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any senolytic regimen.

 

 

Dietary and Natural Sources of Senolytics

Senolytic compounds can be found in several natural sources, making it possible to integrate these age-supporting nutrients into your daily diet. Two of the most well-researched natural senolytics are Fisetin and Quercetin, both of which are key ingredients in Senolytic 8 from Longevity Box.

  • Fisetin: Fisetin, a flavonoid found in strawberries, apples, and other fruits, has demonstrated remarkable senolytic activity in various studies. It works by inducing apoptosis, or cell death, in senescent cells, without harming healthy ones. 
  • Quercetin: Another flavonoid with potent senolytic effects, Quercetin is naturally found in onions, apples, and berries. It has been shown to help selectively eliminate senescent cells, particularly in combination with other senolytic agents. 
  • Green Tea: Contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound known to promote healthy cell function and possibly contribute to senolytic activity. Green tea extract, as included in Senolytic 8, is decaffeinated and standardised to 45% EGCG.
  • Theaflavins: Found in black tea, theaflavins have been shown to support cellular senescence and may play a role in clearing senescent cells. Senolytic 8 includes theaflavins from decaffeinated black tea extract, ensuring a potent dose without the caffeine.
  • Myricetin: A bioflavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, myricetin is another key ingredient in Senolytic 8, contributing to its comprehensive cellular support.
  • Vitamin E (as D-Alpha tocopherol): An antioxidant that protects healthy cells, Vitamin E also supports cellular health by reducing oxidative damage, included in Senolytic 8 for its protective properties.
  • Gamma Tocotrienol: A member of the Vitamin E family, this compound supports cardiovascular health and contributes to senolytic activity.
  • N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC): Known for its antioxidant and detoxifying properties, NAC helps reduce oxidative stress and further supports the senolytic effects in Senolytic 8.

Incorporating these foods and ingredients into your diet may offer a natural way to support cellular health and longevity. However, the quantities of these compounds found in food are often not enough to produce the full senolytic effects observed in studies. This is where supplements like Senolytic 8 come into play. Senolytic 8 contains a carefully crafted blend of Fisetin, Quercetin, and other potent ingredients to provide optimal senolytic support in a convenient, daily dose.

Key Takeaways:

  • Natural sources of senolytics include strawberries (Fisetin), onions (Quercetin), and green tea (EGCG).
  • While foods can contribute to senolytic activity, supplements like Senolytic 8 offer a more potent, targeted approach.
  • Incorporating these foods into your diet alongside senolytic supplementation can help promote health and lifespan.

 

 

 

Supplements and Dosage

For those interested in the health and lifespan benefits of senolytics, supplements offer an effective and convenient way to access the right dosages of these compounds. Senolytic 8 from Longevity Box is a potent supplement that combines some of the most studied and effective senolytic agents, including Fisetin, Quercetin, Green Tea Extract, and Theaflavins.

Recommended Dosage

Senolytic 8 is designed to be taken in regular cycles to clear senescent cells without affecting healthy ones. The recommended dosage is two capsules daily, with or without food. This provides a potent dose of natural senolytic compounds to support the removal of senescent cells from the body. It is important to note that senolytics can be administered intermittently—meaning you don’t need to take them daily for the long term. Instead, periodic dosing is often sufficient to maintain senolytic activity and support healthspan.

Benefits of Senolytic 8

What sets Senolytic 8 apart from other supplements is its carefully selected blend of ingredients that target different types of senescent cells. The inclusion of Fisetin and Quercetin allows the supplement to target senescent cells in multiple tissues, enhancing its overall effectiveness. Additionally, the presence of Green Tea Extract, Theaflavins, Myricetin, NAC, and Vitamin E adds further support for cellular senescence and provides antioxidant benefits, reducing oxidative stress on healthy cells.

Importance of Personalised Dosage

As with any supplement, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting Senolytic 8, particularly if you are taking other medications or have existing health conditions. While senolytics have shown minimal adverse effects in early research, individual responses can vary. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best dosage and frequency for your specific needs, ensuring the supplement works harmoniously with your health goals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Senolytic 8 offers a convenient blend of Fisetin, Quercetin, Myricetin, and other senolytics for comprehensive cellular support.
  • The recommended dosage is two capsules daily, but senolytic compounds can be taken intermittently for long-term benefits.
  • Consulting a healthcare provider ensures safe, personalised dosing.

Conclusion

As we've seen, senolytics offer a fascinating glimpse into the future of healthy ageing. By focusing on the removal of senescent cells, these compounds show great promise in helping us tackle the root causes of ageing at the cellular level. The build-up of ageing cells not only contributes to inflammation and tissue damage but also paves the way for age-related diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular issues, and even cancer. The use of senolytics to target and eliminate senescent cells brings us closer to improving both healthspan and quality of life.

Research involving cells in mice has shown that senolytics selectively target and clear senescent cells, offering a potential solution to many problems associated with cellular senescence. These therapies may also reduce the presence of senescent t cells and support the function of stem cells, helping the body repair itself more efficiently. Some studies even suggest that novel senolytic agents may help address transplanted senescent cells, further expanding their potential applications in medicine. The findings are encouraging, especially when we consider that senolytic therapy alleviates the effects of inflammation and supports better tissue repair.

But the journey doesn’t stop here. While research on senolytics has grown steadily, there's still much to learn about how these compounds work in humans. Early trials suggest that senolytics in humans may offer similar benefits to what we've seen in animal models, particularly in reducing senescent cells in humans. Yet, the long-term effects of these treatments remain an exciting area of discovery. Whether we’re talking about combining senolytics with different tissue affinities or exploring novel senolytic agents, there’s real potential to continue refining and expanding this promising field.

The ultimate goal of senolytics is to reduce the harmful effects of cell senescence, potentially improving longevity and overall wellbeing. By selectively clearing these harmful cells, senolytics can enhance healthspan and contribute to a more vibrant, healthier life. If you’re interested in learning more about the science of senolytics and how they might support your own health, be sure to explore our resources and products at Longevity Box.

FAQ

What are senolytics?

Senolytics are compounds that target and eliminate senescent cells, which are cells that have stopped functioning properly but remain in the body. These cells secrete harmful substances that promote inflammation and accelerate ageing. By using senolytics, we can remove these cells and reduce the damage they cause.

How do senolytics promote longevity?

Senolytics work by targeting senescent cells and encouraging their removal. This process improves tissue function, reduces chronic inflammation, and lowers the risk of age-related diseases, potentially enhancing healthspan and longevity. Clearing senescent cells with senolytic compounds also helps improve overall cellular health.

Are there any natural sources of senolytics?

Yes, some common foods contain natural senolytic compounds. Fisetin, found in strawberries, and Quercetin, present in onions, are good examples of senolytics. These foods may help reduce senescent cells naturally, but supplementation is often more effective for eliminating the senescent cells in greater numbers.

Can I take senolytic supplements with other medications?

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before combining senolytic supplements with medications. Senolytics can have interactions with drugs, especially in treating cancer cells or managing chronic conditions. A professional can guide you safely based on your medical history.

How do senolytics help decrease senescent cells in humans?

Senolytics help by selectively targeting and removing human senescent cells, improving overall tissue health and reducing inflammation. Research on senolytics in humans is ongoing, but early studies show promising results in decreasing senescent cells in humans and restoring healthier ageing processes.

Do senolytics affect specific types of cells?

Yes, senolytics target many senescent cells, including human senescent cells, human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and other tissue types. By eliminating the senescent cells that drive inflammation and disease, senolytics offer targeted support for various tissues and organs.

What is the potential of senolytics in treating age-related diseases?

Senolytics to treat age-related diseases hold great promise. By removing senescent cells, these compounds can improve tissue function and help prevent conditions such as osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease. Ongoing development of senolytic drugs could further expand their therapeutic potential.

Can senolytics be combined for better results?

Yes, combining senolytics with different properties can enhance their effectiveness. Studies have indicated that combining senolytics, such as Fisetin and Quercetin, produces better outcomes in clearing senescent cells. This combination targets different pathways, offering a more comprehensive approach to senolytic therapy.