In a groundbreaking study, scientists from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) have pioneered a cutting-edge approach to combat aging using the body’s own immune system. Focusing on senescent cells, which play a significant role in age-related damage and inflammation, the team, led by Assistant Professor Corina Amor Vegas, successfully reprogrammed T cells through CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) technology.
Senescent cells, known for halting division and releasing harmful substances, were targeted using modified CAR T cells designed to recognize the protein uPAR, prevalent in senescent cells but not in normal ones. Injecting these engineered T cells into both young and old mice, the researchers observed remarkable outcomes. The CAR T cells effectively eliminated senescent cells across various tissues, leading to reduced inflammation, enhanced metabolism, lower body weight, and increased physical activity in the mice.
The study, published in the journal Nature Aging, revealed that the CAR T cells not only prevented aging-associated diseases like obesity and diabetes but also had a rejuvenating effect on older mice. The mice displayed reversed signs of aging, such as hair loss, skin wrinkles, and muscle weakness, along with an average lifespan extension of 20%.
“This is a very exciting and novel approach to combat aging,” remarked Amor Vegas. “CAR T cells can be used to target senescent cells, a major driver of aging and age-related diseases. The long-term and systemic effects of CAR T cells, unlike conventional drugs, have the potential to be a game-changer in the field of anti-aging therapy.”
The study marks a significant step in understanding the potential of CAR T cells in not only slowing down the aging process but also reversing it, offering hope for future research and clinical trials aimed at exploring the safety and efficacy of this revolutionary approach in humans.
