Osteoimmunology and Cellular Senescence: Intersections in Bone, Immunity, and Aging

Osteoimmunology is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field investigating the reciprocal interactions and shared regulatory mechanisms between the skeletal and immune systems. This field highlights the influence of immune cells on bone homeostasis and regeneration, and conversely, how bone-derived signals modulate immune phenotypes and responses. Cellular senescence, defined as permanent cell-cycle arrest accompanied by a pro-inflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), has emerged as a critical factor in aging and age-related diseases. Senescent cells accumulate in aging tissues, including bone and immune compartments, influencing tissue integrity and function. Understanding how cellular senescence influences bone health, immune function, and their intersection during aging remains an active area of research. Elucidating these mechanisms could unveil novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate age-associated diseases such as osteoporosis, arthritis, impaired fracture healing, and heightened inflammatory responses.

The central challenge of this Research Topic is to dissect and understand the role cellular senescence plays at the intersection of bone biology and immune regulation in the context of aging. Senescence-associated inflammation (inflammaging) and immune dysregulation contributes to age-associated skeletal system deterioration and reduced regenerative capacity. Recent advancements have identified senescent immune and bone cells as key mediators influencing bone remodeling and immune homeostasis. This Research Topic aims to leverage these insights to explore potential therapeutic targets, such as senolytics (agents capable of selectively eliminating senescent cells) to restore bone and immune health in the elderly. Additionally, strategies to prevent the accumulation of senescent immune cells could delay or mitigate age-associated declines in bone health and related diseases.

We welcome Original Research articles, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, Perspective Articles and Opinion pieces addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• The role of senescent cells in bone remodeling and fracture healing
• Immune cell senescence and its impact on bone health
• Interactions between senescent cells and immune regulation in bone or bone-related diseases
• Therapeutic strategies targeting senescent cells to improve bone and immune health
• The molecular mechanisms linking inflammaging, immune dysregulation, and bone health

Please note that manuscripts submitted to this Research Topic that do not investigate mechanisms related to immunity are out of scope for this journal.


Please also note that Dr. Lena Batoon has medical-related stocks with Avecho Biotechnology and Radiopharm Theranostics Limited; Dr Megan Weivoda has patents filed for bone targeting therapeutics and bone targeting therapeutic aldehydes.