Cellular senescence is a core mechanism underlying aging and chronic diseases. When cells experience DNA damage, oxidative stress, or telomere shortening, they enter a "zombie state"—ceasing to divide without undergoing apoptosis while continuously secreting pro-inflammatory factors (such as IL-6, IL-8, and MMPs). This results in the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). SASP factors can induce senescence in neighboring healthy cells, creating a vicious cycle.
The senolytic strategy is a cutting-edge approach in anti-aging research: it selectively induces apoptosis in senescent cells to reduce the burden of SASP factors, thereby improving tissue function and extending healthspan. Research by Dr. James Kirkland's team at Mayo Clinic shows that the combination of dasatinib and quercetin (D+Q) effectively clears multiple types of senescent cells.
Quercetin is a flavonoid widely found in plants (abundant in onions, apples, and capers) with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine properties. In the D+Q regimen, quercetin synergizes with dasatinib to induce senescent cell apoptosis by inhibiting senescence survival pathways such as PI3K/AKT, HSP90, and SIRT1.
Preliminary human clinical trials show that the D+Q regimen can improve exercise capacity in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and reduce inflammatory markers in those with diabetic kidney disease. While the D+Q regimen is currently used primarily for research, quercetin as a single agent is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In functional medicine product development, quercetin is a key ingredient in the respiratory support formula of the Immune Resilience Series (quercetin + NAC + vitamin C + zinc), exerting anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting histamine release and the NF-κB pathway. Dynas Group Hong Kong supports custom manufacturing in capsule and powder formats.
