Senescence and tumor immunology: A multifaceted interplay of influence

Medical advances and global population aging have propelled aging and cancer research into a new period of discovery. Senescent cells, which exert context-dependent tumor-suppressive and tumor-promoting effects, are central to this progress and engage in complex crosstalk with tumor proliferation. This review critically examines the multidimensional interplay between aging and cancer by synthesizing genetic, cytokine signaling, and tissue microenvironment evidence. We discuss how senescent cells influence immune surveillance, therapy response, tumor progression, metastasis, and age-related cancer risk, while cellular diversity, molecular complexity, immune balance, tumor heterogeneity, treatment resistance, and individual aging variability further complicate this relationship. We conclude that aging and cancer are intertwined through dynamic, context-specific mechanisms. By integrating these insights, this review aims to inspire novel research directions and transformative advances in cancer therapy and healthy longevity.