As we get older, certain cells stop dividing but don’t die off cleanly. These are often called senescent cells, or sometimes “zombie cells” in popular discussions. They stick around and release inflammatory signals that can affect nearby healthy tissues.
This process contributes to chronic low-grade inflammation, which research links to many age-related changes in the body. Studies show that clearing or calming these cells in lab models can improve tissue function and overall well-being in animals.
