The first in vivo cell atlas of senescent tissue in skeletal muscle has identified the damaging properties of these cells and explained why they block muscle regeneration. According to a study at Pompeu Fabra University led by scientists from Altos Labs Inc., cell damage caused the senescence of the cells, which secreted toxic substances into the surrounding microenvironment, causing fibrosis and preventing tissue regeneration.

Investigators have identified a previously unrecognized population of senescent cells, called p21high cells, in fat tissue and demonstrated their contributory role in metabolic dysfunction, obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.