Outside of cancer biology, normal, well-behaved cells undergo a finite number of cell divisions. This is thought to be a general anti-cancer mechanism, since tired, older cells with metabolic dysfunction and increased exposure to environmental toxins- if they were to divide- are more likely to accumulate, and pass on mutations that cold promote the development of cancer. Because senescent cells have permanently exited the cell cycle, they are no longer at risk for passing along potentially harmful DNA mutations to daughter cells, potentially reducing cancer risk. [1]
What are senescent cells?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Senescent cells are normal cells that have permanently exited the cell cycle after a finite number of divisions, thus reducing the risk of passing on harmful DNA mutations that could promote cancer. This process is considered a protective mechanism against cancer development, particularly in older cells with metabolic dysfunction.