More Evidence for the Importance of Senescent Cell / Immune Cell Interactions in Proficient Regeneration
Studies on wound healing in animals capable of complete limb and organ regeneration, like salamanders and zebrafish, have revealed the crucial role of senescent cells and immune cells, especially macrophages, in the regenerative process. Despite being temporary, senescent cells seem to aid in regrowth and repair before being cleared by immune cells. Understanding the biochemistry of regeneration in these animals may help unlock the regenerative potential lost in adult mammals.
Recent studies on zebrafish have shown their ability to regenerate retinas through the action of Müller glia, a process lost in higher vertebrates. The regulation of inflammation during tissue regeneration, involving macrophages and microglia, has been a focus of research. Senescent cells, known for their role in aging, release various signaling molecules that influence regeneration.
Research has discovered that cells expressing markers of both microglia/macrophages and senescence play a significant role in retina regeneration post damage. Targeting senescent cells with senolytic treatment resulted in decreased proliferation and incomplete repair, emphasizing the need to balance inflammation for successful regeneration.
