The first and best-known attempt to target aging by clearing worn-out cells that linger and fuel inflammation. Animal studies show improved strength, function, and survival; small early human studies lower worn-out cell counts but prove no lasting benefit. Real cautions involve blood counts, fluid balance, and the heart. Intriguing but unproven. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Platelet count | 200–400 ×10⁹/L | Detects dasatinib-related thrombocytopenia and bleeding risk |
| Absolute neutrophil count | > 2.0 ×10⁹/L | Detects neutropenia that raises infection risk |
| ALT / AST (liver enzymes) | < 25 U/L | Screens for liver stress affecting drug clearance |
| eGFR (kidney filtration) | > 90 mL/min/1.73m² | Assesses kidney function relevant to safety and disease context |
| hsCRP | < 1.0 mg/L | Tracks systemic inflammation the therapy aims to lower |
| IL-6 | Low-normal per assay | A core SASP inflammatory marker used to gauge senolytic effect |
| Fasting glucose / HbA1c | < 90 mg/dL / < 5.4% | Monitors metabolic status, relevant in metabolic and kidney contexts |
| QTc interval (ECG) | < 440 ms | Screens for QT prolongation before and during dasatinib exposure |
| p16INK4a (senescent-cell marker) | Lower is better (research metric) | Directly indexes senescent-cell burden, the therapy's target |
Cadence: Blood counts and symptoms around the first one to two courses (within a few days of dosing), then reassess every 3–6 months if cycling continues; ECG at baseline and as clinically indicated in those with cardiac risk.