Senolytics 2026 — Dasatinib/Quercetin, Fisetin, and the Emerging Trial Landscape

Senolytics are agents that selectively clear senescent (zombie) cells. The most-studied combination is dasatinib + quercetin (D+Q), with fisetin as a single-agent alternative. Used in cycled protocols (2 consecutive days, monthly to quarterly). Human trials are emerging.

What senolytics do

Senolytics are agents that selectively clear senescent (zombie) cells — cells that have stopped dividing but resist apoptosis and accumulate with age. Senescent cells secrete a pro-inflammatory profile (senescence-associated secretory phenotype, SASP) that drives age-related tissue dysfunction.

Most-studied combination — Dasatinib + Quercetin (D+Q)

The combination of dasatinib 100 mg + quercetin 1,000 mg taken on 2 consecutive days, then repeated monthly to quarterly, is the most-studied senolytic protocol. Phase 2 trials are underway in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Alzheimer's disease, and frailty.

Single-agent alternative — Fisetin

Fisetin 20 mg/kg orally on 2 consecutive days, cycled monthly to quarterly. Available as a flavonoid supplement. Smaller evidence base than D+Q but more accessible.

Cycled dosing — the standard approach

Senolytic protocols use 'hit-and-run' cycled dosing rather than continuous administration. The theory: clear senescent cell burden during the 2-day pulse; allow normal cell function the rest of the time. Continuous dosing has not shown the same benefit signals in preclinical studies.

Evidence and uncertainty

Strong preclinical evidence. Human trial data is emerging (Justice et al. for D+Q in IPF; Mayo Clinic frailty trial). The field is one of the most-watched in longevity but human data is early.

NexLife approach

NexLife's longevity program offers senolytic protocols under physician oversight by Medical Director Adam Kennah, M.D.. Protocols are individualized; cadence, drug selection, and contraindications (e.g., active malignancy considerations) are physician-determined.

Sources

• Justice JN et al., Senolytics in IPF — EBioMedicine 2019
• Hickson LJ et al., Senolytics in human aging — EBioMedicine 2019
• Yousefzadeh MJ et al., Fisetin — EBioMedicine 2018