This review discusses how aging impairs stem cell activation, leading to tissue decline and an increased risk of age-related diseases. Aging tissues release factors into the bloodstream that can disrupt the function of distant tissues, contributing to degenerative conditions and serving as biomarkers for age-related diseases. The review highlights recent research on reducing these harmful circulating factors, particularly through plasmapheresis, in both pre-clinical and clinical settings.
The authors propose that therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) could serve as a rejuvenation therapy by diluting these age-elevated, harmful factors. This approach may effectively recalibrate key signaling pathways to restore a youthful state, offering a potential strategy to counteract systemic aging effects and improve tissue health.