The function of small extracellular vesicles secreted from senescent cells

Abstract

Cellular senescence is an important tumor suppression mechanism caused by various stresses. Senescent cells secrete a large number of inflammatory proteins, which is called as senescence-associated secretory phenotype （SASP）. Inflammatory SASP factors secreted from senescent cells induce chronic inflammation in the surrounding tissues, thereby causing age-related diseases. Recently, it has been shown that the secretion of small extracellular vesicle （sEV） is enhanced in senescent cells, acting as one of tumorigenic SASP factors. This article reviews the basic molecular mechanisms of sEV biogenesis in senescent cells and the latest findings on the biological function of sEV secreted from senescent cells. We also discuss the possibilities for clinical application of sEV in the field of aging research.