The Emerging Role of Cellular Senescence in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

The review discusses the emerging role of cellular senescence in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), noting that senescent cells, such as microglia, astrocytes, and neurons, have been identified in ALS patients and animal models. Although there is evidence suggesting a link between cellular senescence and ALS, this connection is not yet definitive. The review highlights how senescence in different cell types may influence ALS pathogenesis and explores the potential of anti-senescence therapies, like senolytic drugs, as treatment strategies. It underscores the need for further research to understand the contribution of senescent cells to ALS neuropathophysiology and the importance of senescent cell clearance in ALS treatment. Identifying senescence biomarkers in motor neurons could help slow disease progression and extend patient lifespan.