SASP

Definition

SASP stands for senescence-associated secretory phenotype. It describes the mixture of signalling molecules, inflammatory factors, growth factors, proteases, and other secreted substances released by many senescent cells. The exact SASP varies by cell type, tissue, senescence trigger, and biological context. [1] [2] [3]

Why It Matters in Ageing Research

SASP matters because senescent cells can influence surrounding tissue without dividing. Through SASP factors, senescent cells may contribute to chronic inflammation, tissue remodelling, impaired regeneration, and age-related dysfunction, while also playing useful roles in wound healing, development, and tumour suppression in some contexts. This makes SASP a major focus for research into senolytics, senomorphics, inflammation, and the biology of ageing. [2] [4] [5] [6]

Common Confusion

• SASP is not one single molecule; it is a variable secretory programme.
• Not every senescent cell has the same SASP.
• SASP is not always harmful; its effects depend on timing, tissue, and biological context.

Related Reading

• Cellular Senescence
• Senolytics

References

1. Coppé, J. P., et al. (2008). Senescence-associated secretory phenotypes reveal cell-nonautonomous functions of oncogenic RAS and the p53 tumor suppressor. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19053174/
2. Coppé, J. P., et al. (2010). The senescence-associated secretory phenotype: The dark side of tumor suppression. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20078217/
3. Kuilman, T., & Peeper, D. S. (2009). Senescence-messaging secretome: SMS-ing cellular stress. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19596272/
4. van Deursen, J. M. (2014). The role of senescent cells in ageing. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature13193
5. Childs, B. G., et al. (2015). Cellular senescence in aging and age-related disease: From mechanisms to therapy. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25936745/
6. Gorgoulis, V., et al. (2019). Cellular senescence: Defining a path forward. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31577934/