Senescent keratinocytes and sebocytes

Senescent keratinocytes and sebocytes are specialized skin cells that have entered a state of permanent growth arrest while remaining metabolically active and secretory. This state is typically induced by stressors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, oxidative stress, or telomere shortening (Source: Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2020). These cells accumulate in the skin with age and contribute to tissue dysfunction through the secretion of the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), which includes pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and matrix metalloproteinases like MMP-1 that degrade collagen (Source: Aging Cell, 2021). In the epidermis, senescent keratinocytes impair barrier function and regenerative capacity, while senescent sebocytes in the sebaceous glands can alter lipid production and promote local inflammation (Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2022). Therapeutic strategies targeting these cells, known as senolytics, aim to selectively induce apoptosis in senescent populations to restore skin homeostasis and reduce signs of biological aging (Source: OneSkin, 2023). Current pharmacological approaches include the use of BCL-2 inhibitors or specific peptides designed to disrupt senescence-maintenance pathways.

Other names

Senescent skin cellsSenescent epidermal and sebaceous cellsSASP-secreting skin cells

Selective induction of apoptosis (senolysis) by targeting anti-apoptotic pathways (SCAPs) or suppression of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (senomorphosis).