Molecular Mechanisms of Senescence and Implications for the Treatment of Myeloid Malignancies

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Senescence is a cellular program in response to stress and can prevent the expansion of pre-malignant and malignant cells by cell cycle arrest. However, long-term pro-tumorigenic effects have been described. This review aims to compile molecular mechanisms of cellular senescence and to discuss potential therapeutic implications in myeloid malignancies. ABSTRACT: Senescence is a cellular state that is involved in aging-associated diseases but may also prohibit the development of pre-cancerous lesions and tumor growth. Senescent cells are actively secreting chemo- and cytokines, and this senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) can contribute to both early anti-tumorigenic and long-term pro-tumorigenic effects. Recently, complex mechanisms of cellular senescence and their influence on cellular processes have been defined in more detail and, therefore, facilitate translational development of targeted therapies. In this review, we aim to discuss major molecular pathways involved in cellular senescence and potential therapeutic strategies, with a specific focus on myeloid malignancies.