Cedars-Sinai researchers identify protein that may hide aging cells from immune system

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University have identified a protein, PD-L2, that may allow senescent cells to evade the body’s immune system. These aging cells, which stop dividing but do not die, accumulate in tissues and release substances that trigger inflammation and interfere with cellular function, contributing to various age-related health issues.

In laboratory studies involving mice, blocking or removing PD-L2 reduced the accumulation of these harmful cells and lowered inflammatory markers. The treated mice demonstrated improved sugar processing and increased physical grip strength. Findings published in Cell Metabolism also indicate that human aging cells produce higher levels of PD-L2 than younger cells, with protein levels increasing in certain human tissues as age progresses.

Scientists suggest that PD-L2 could serve as a therapeutic target to help the immune system eliminate senescent cells or act as a blood marker to track them. Future research will focus on determining if blocking this protein can safely provide health benefits for human patients.