Senescence Disrupts Tissue Remodeling and Repair
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a critical regulator of cell health and is maintained locally through a delicate balance of new protein synthesis and removal of excess/damaged matrix. Unfortunately, the ability to maintain the ECM is lost in aging, leading to chronic tissue breakdown and disease across multiple tissue types (arthritis, heart disease, emphysema, etc.). Given the common issue, Dr. Conizzo hypothesizes that that a loss in ECM maintenance likely stems from global changes in cell behavior that occur with aging, such as cellular senescence. In this project, we aim to link disrupted ECM synthesis and breakdown to senescence-related pathways directly, and to reveal master regulators of ECM maintenance that are altered with aging. If Dr. Conizzo can reveal the key players in ECM dysfunction, early interventions to preserve tissue health and longevity can be developed.
