Work

Senescence and tumor immunology: A multifaceted interplay of influence

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Medical advances and global population aging have propelled aging and cancer research into a new period of discovery. Senescent cells, which exert context-dependent tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting effects, are central to this progress and engage in complex crosstalk with tumor proliferation. This review critically examines the multidimensional interplay between aging and cancer by synthesizing genetic, cytokine signaling, and tissue microenvironment evidence. We discuss how senescent cells influence immune surveillance, therapy response, tumor progression, metastasis, and age-related cancer risk, while cellular diversity, molecular complexity, immune balance, tumor heterogeneity, treatment resistance, and individual aging variability further complicate this relationship. We conclude that aging and cancer are intertwined through dynamic, context-specific mechanisms. By integrating these insights, this review aims to inspire novel research directions and transformative advances in cancer therapy and healthy longevity.

Source: iScience

DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2026.117849

Authors: Yuyan Xie, Jie Zhang, Shixiao Wang, Dan Rao, Jing Zhang, Ying Ao

Institutions: Shenzhen University, Shenzhen University Health Science Center

Language: English

Topic: Telomeres, Telomerase, and Senescence

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240