Many of the cells in our body undergo numerous cycles of dividing from one cell into two. However, a small number of cells stop this process of dividing and become “senescent.” Despite their important roles in health, disease, and aging, there are still many unanswered questions about how, when, why, and where senescent cells form. The Common Fund’s Cellular Senescence Network (SenNet) began its work to comprehensively identify and characterize the differences in senescent cells across the body and lifespan in the fall of 2021. To begin this important work, the program established a network made up of three key components: Human Tissue Mapping Centers, Technology Development and Application (TDA) projects focused on future use in human tissues, and a Consortium Organization and Data Coordination Center (CODCC) to act as the organizational hub. The initial goals of SenNet focused on mapping senescent cells in humans, but it was recognized early on by the program that studies in animal models could enable researchers to ask questions that would otherwise be too difficult to answer in humans. Identifying the differences and similarities in cellular senescence between mice and humans may also allow researchers to better design animal studies that yield insight into human health.

Recognizing the importance of understanding senescent cells in mice and developing tools for characterizing these cells specifically in animal models, SenNet has broadened its mission by funding five Murine Tissue Mapping Centers as well as two TDA projects focused on future use in mouse tissues. An additional three TDA projects focused on future use in human tissues were also awarded to further enhance the range of technologies used within the Network. The CODCC will continue to collect, store, and curate the Network’s data to deliver human and mouse atlases of senescence to the scientific community, which will catalyze research on the role of senescent cells in human health and how to manipulate senescent cells to improve health. Visit the Network’s website or subscribe to its mailing list to stay up-to-date on SenNet news!

Read more about the new projects on the Funded Research webpage.