Epigenetic Modifications in Cellular Senescence: Mechanisms, Implications, and Therapeutic Potential

Abstract

Stressors, has attracted attention in the biological and medical sciences. Epigenetic modifications,

which impact gene expression patterns and ultimately dictate the fate of cells, play a crucial role in managing

cellular senescence. DNA methylation is a crucial epigenetic process implicated in cellular senescence.

Research has demonstrated that changes in gene expression profiles result from global hypomethylation and

localized hypermethylation of genes during senescence. Cellular senescence is also significantly influenced by

histone alterations. Histone acetylation or methylation can change the chromatin structure, which can impact

transcription factors' ability to bind to gene promoters. Consequently, this may have an impact on the expression

of genes linked to senescence processes. Furthermore, due to their capacity to post-transcriptionally control

gene expression, non-coding RNAs like microRNAs have become significant regulators of cellular senescence.

Dysregulation of microRNAs has been linked to the induction or inhibition of senescence in different cell types.

In this comprehensive review, we discuss the epigenetic modifications that occur during cellular senescence

and explore their potential as therapeutic targets to regulate the senescent phenotype, a crucial step in addressing

age-related diseases.