Targeting accelerated pulmonary ageing to treat COPD induced
neuropathological comorbidities.
Abstract
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major incurable health
burden, ranking as the 3rd leading cause of death worldwide, mainly
driven by cigarette smoking. COPD is characterised by persistent airway
inflammation, lung function decline, and premature aging with the
presence of pulmonary senescent cells. This review proposes that
cellular senescence, a state of stable cell cycle arrest linked to
ageing; induced by inflammation and oxidative stress in COPD, extends
beyond the lungs and impacts the systemic circulation. This “spill
over” of senescent cells contributes to brain inflammation and damage,
increasing the risk of neurological comorbidities, such as stroke,
cerebral small vessel disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The review
explores the role of cellular senescence in COPD-associated brain
conditions and investigates the relationship between cellular senescence
and circadian rhythm in COPD. Additionally, it discusses potential
therapies, including senomorphic and senolytic treatments, as novel
strategies to halt or improve COPD progression.