Title:Nanomaterials and Aging
Volume: 16
Issue: 1
Author(s): Chen-Chen Mao and Xiaoxiao Cai*
Affiliation:
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu,China
Keywords:
Nanomaterial, aging, senescence, carbon-based nanomaterials, metal-based nanomaterials, tetrahedral framework nucleic
acids [tFNAs].
Abstract: As the proportion of the elderly population increases, more and more people suffer from
aging-related diseases. Even if aging is inevitable, prolonging the time of healthy aging, delaying the
progression of aging-related diseases, and the incidence of morbidity can greatly alleviate the pressure
on individuals and society. Current research and exploration in the field of materials related to aging
are expanding tremendously. Here, we present a summary of recent research in the field of nanomaterials
relevant to aging. Some nanomaterials, such as silica nanomaterials (NMs) and carbon nanotubes,
cause damage to the cells similar to aging processes. Other nanomaterials such as fullerenes and metalbased
nanomaterials can protect the body from endogenous and exogenous harmful substances such as
ROS by virtue of their excellent reducing properties. Another new type of nucleic acid nanomaterial,
tetrahedral framework nucleic acids, works effectively against cell damage. This material selectively
clears existing senescent cells in the tissue and thus prevents the development of the chronic inflammatory
environment caused by senescent cells secreting senescence-associated secretory phenotype to the
surroundings. We believe that nanomaterials have tremendous potential to advance the understanding
and treatment of aging-related disorders, and today's research only represents the beginning stages.