Published in Aging, the review examines evidence from ageing, tissue regeneration and cancer, concluding that senescence and stem cell function should not be viewed as biological opposites. Instead, the balance between the two appears to vary according to tissue type, physiological conditions and disease state. 

The authors describe how transient senescence can support normal tissue repair, whereas persistent senescence contributes to stem cell dysfunction, impaired regeneration and age-related disease. The review also explores how signalling from senescent cells can either promote or suppress stem cell activity depending on the tissue environment. 

The researchers conclude that a better understanding of the relationship between senescence and stem cell function could inform the development of future regenerative therapies, including senolytics, senomorphics and stem cell-based approaches.