A study in mice suggests that blocking a specific receptor can restore the body's ability to clear senescent cells, leading to healthier aging outcomes including better memory and reduced frailty.
Researchers led by Katrin Andreasson at Stanford University compared young and old mice and identified that elevated prostaglandin E2 overstimulates the EP2 receptor on macrophages, impairing clearance of senescent neutrophils.
Genetically modifying the EP2 gene in older mice improved their ability to remove these cells. The animals showed lower inflammation, less muscle loss, reduced visceral fat, better mobility and near-normal performance on memory tests.
An experimental oral drug that blocks EP2 produced similar benefits after two months of treatment in older mice. Human liver samples displayed comparable patterns of higher EP2 activity and more senescent neutrophils.
Derek Gilroy of University College London called the findings promising but noted that broader EP2 blockade could cause unwanted effects. The team plans further studies on links to conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
