What does this research mean for the field?

Senolytics can potentially eradicate senescent cells, also known as 'zombie cells', and may reverse aspects of aging. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.SYNTHESIS. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The review aims to explore the role of senescent cells in aging and their impact on chronic diseases.

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February 17, 2026Open Access

Killing the Undead: Can Senolytics Eradicate Zombie Cells and Reverse Aging?

Key Points

The review aims to explore the role of senescent cells in aging and their impact on chronic diseases.
Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies
Synthesis of findings related to senolytics
Analysis of inflammation and tissue degeneration effects
Identified senescent cells as contributors to aging
Explored the role of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) in promoting inflammation
Highlighted the potential of senolytics to target and eliminate zombie cells

Abstract

This literature review examines the biological impact of senescent cells, often termed "zombie cells" on aging and the development of chronic disease. The review synthesizes recent preclinical and clinical research concerning cellular senescence and the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), which drives inflammation and tissue degeneration.

Killing the Undead: Can Senolytics Eradicate Zombie Cells and Reverse Aging?

Key Points

Abstract

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