Transcriptomic profiling of human senescent cells in the setting of curcumin intervention

Aging and age-relataed pathologies can be delayed by specifically targeting the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), a hallmark feature of senescent cells. Achieving the goal using small molecules would have a tremendous impact on the quality of lifespan and burden of age-related chronic diseases. We report the potential of curcumin, a polyphenol constituent (up to ~5%) of the traditional medicine known as turmeric, in targeting senescent cells via induction of programmed cell death. This study demonstrates the impact of curcumin as a medicinal compound on the expression profile of senescent cells and provides a strong rationale for its future application in geriatric medicine. Overall design: Examination of in vitro efficacy of curcumin, a plant-derived polyphenol, in treating human senescent cells. This assay was performed beyond previous studies reporting curcumin's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties as a traditional herbal medicine, as well as its efficacy in improvement of brain function, and control of obesity and diabetes.