Stem cell exhaustion

Stem cell exhaustion is the age-related decline in the number, function, and regenerative capacity of tissue-resident stem cells. Drivers include accumulated DNA damage, telomere attrition, epigenetic drift, mitochondrial dysfunction, and a deteriorating niche environment. Consequences include impaired wound healing, anemia, immunosenescence, sarcopenia, and reduced tissue homeostasis. Recognized as a hallmark of aging, it is a key target for regenerative and reprogramming-based interventions.