SeneSIQ›Mechanism
Mechanism

Senolytics vs senomorphics

Reference definition for a cellular-senescence node.

Framing / taxonomy

Definition

Category: Framing / taxonomy

Also known as: senotherapeutics, senolytic, senomorphic

Two distinct strategies for targeting senescent cells. Senolytics selectively kill senescent cells (by disabling their survival pathways); senomorphics leave the cells alive but suppress their harmful SASP secretion. They differ in mechanism, dosing logic, and risk, and should not be conflated.

Key points

  • Senolytics: dasatinib+quercetin, fisetin, navitoclax, UBX0101 — intermittent 'hit-and-run' dosing.
  • Senomorphics: rapamycin, metformin, JAK inhibitors (ruxolitinib) — continuous SASP suppression; covered on mtorix.com.
  • The distinction matters for interpreting trial endpoints: clearing cells versus quieting their secretome.

Related interventions

Sourcing

Standard senotherapeutic reviews (Kirkland & Tchkonia).

Reference synthesis (tier 4); verification: review_level_2026-07-12.