Senolytics
Clearing Zombie Cells to Reverse Aging
Senolytic compounds selectively destroy senescent cells — damaged cells that refuse to die and instead secrete inflammatory signals that accelerate aging in surrounding tissue.
The Senescence Problem
Senescent cells accumulate with age. Though they stop dividing, they remain metabolically active and secrete a toxic cocktail known as SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype).
Chronic Inflammation
SASP drives low-grade chronic inflammation (inflammaging), linked to cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, and cancer.
Bystander Effect
Senescent cells convert neighboring healthy cells into senescent ones through paracrine signaling, creating a cascade of dysfunction.
Exponential Accumulation
By age 60, senescent cells can represent 15-20% of total cells in some tissues, up from less than 1% in youth.
Leading Senolytic Compounds
Several natural and pharmaceutical compounds have demonstrated senolytic activity in research.
Fisetin
Found in strawberries
The most potent natural senolytic identified in the Kirkland lab screen. Mayo Clinic trials ongoing. Typical research dose: 20mg/kg intermittent (2 days on, 28 off).
Dasatinib + Quercetin
D+Q combination
The original senolytic cocktail (Kirkland 2015). Dasatinib targets fat cell progenitors; quercetin clears endothelial senescent cells. Pulsed dosing: 3 days on, weeks off.
Navitoclax (ABT-263)
BCL-2 inhibitor
Pharmaceutical-grade senolytic targeting the BCL-2 anti-apoptotic pathway. Highly effective but causes thrombocytopenia. Research-only, not available as a supplement.
The Pulsed Dosing Paradigm
Unlike daily supplements, senolytics work best in short bursts followed by long rest periods.
Senolytics are an emerging field of research. Some compounds (dasatinib, navitoclax) are prescription drugs. This page summarizes published research and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any senolytic protocol.