While scientific papers are generally considered trustworthy sources of information, it's important to approach them with a critical mindset and to avoid blindly accepting their claims. The peer-review process, which helps ensure high research quality, is not foolproof. Errors or biases can slip through the cracks. In reading a paper, we should independently evaluate the evidence, scrutinize the methodology, and reflect on alternative interpretations of the data. Considering the influence of funding sources, conflicts of interest, and the potential for selective reporting can also help in maintaining a healthy skepticism about new information.

In this episode of Longevity This Week, Matt takes us through a recently-published paper about the effects of senolytic CAR T cell therapy on the aging process in mice to help us figure out whether the paper's claims hold water. He also analyzes a BBC article describing the findings. Popular press adaptations of the scientific literature often serve as a useful bridge between the complex world of research and the general public, but can be misleading in their attempts to make science accessible. They might, for example, inadvertently distort or oversimplify findings, exaggerate the significance of results, or selectively report research while ignoring contradictory or inconclusive evidence from other sources. We hope this episode will encourage viewers to approach science communication with a discerning eye, and to stay vigilant, curious, and open-minded in learning about the latest discoveries and developments.

Check out the links below for further information and/or reading about some of the things we discussed in this podcast episode. Note that we do not necessarily endorse or agree with the content of these readings, but present them as supplementary material that may deepen your understanding of the topic after you listen to our podcast. This list is in no way exhaustive, but it’s a good start!

Prophylactic and long-lasting efficacy of senolytic CAR T cells against age-related metabolic dysfunction

This is the paper Matt discusses in the podcast. It suggests that injections of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells with senoloytic, or senescent cell-eliminating, properties improves symptoms associated with physiological aging in mice.

Breakthrough anti-ageing cell discovery could help you stay younger for longer

This BBC article covered the paper describing the senolytic CAR T cell finding. Matt discusses the accuracy of its coverage in the podcast episode.

Naturally occurring p16Ink4a-positive cells shorten healthy lifespan

Senescent cells are cells that have entered a state of irreversible growth arrest, meaning they have stopped dividing and replicating. While senescence can serve a beneficial role in wound healing and preventing cancer, accumulated senescent cells can promote chronic inflammation and tissue dysfunction, and may contribute to the development of age-related conditions. This study found that clearing senescent cells from mice increased lifespan and delayed various age-associated pathologies, including cataracts and glomerulosclerosis.

Senolytic CAR T cells reverse senescence-associated pathologies

The lab that published the paper Matt discusses in this episode released this paper in 2020. This paper test the idea that CAR T cells can target a protein induced during cellular senescence, and in so doing improve pathology associated with liver fibrosis and lengthen the lifepsan of mice with lung adenocarcinoma.