Mitochondria are essential organelles in cells that generate energy but also produce harmful oxidative molecules. One approach to combat this oxidative stress is by upregulating antioxidants like catalase. However, a recent study shows that this may not effectively reduce cellular senescence in old mice. This challenges current beliefs about the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular senescence. The findings suggest that reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress may not universally prevent cellular senescence during aging.