[Study on the replicative and premature senescence induced by hydrogen peroxide of human embryonic lung fibroblasts].

OBJECTIVE

To study both cellular replicative and prematuce senescence induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) of human embryonic lung fibroblasts (HEFs).

METHODS

HEFs were cultured conventionally and treated with H2O2. Biomarkers of senescence were assessed, including cell morphology, growth curve, life span, distribution of cell cycle and senescence associated beta-galactosidase (SA-beta-gal), and the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA).

RESULTS

HEFs entered replicative senescence status at 52 population doubling levels (PDL) and 400 micromol/L H2O2 induced premature senescence of HEFs in a short period. Senescent cells were characterized as enlarged, flattened and reduced saturation density, retarded in the G1 phase with increased expression of SA-beta-gal. The mRNA and protein level of PCNA decreased gradually during cellular senescence.

CONCLUSION

Cellular premature senescence could be induced by 400 micromol/L H2O2. Premature senescence induced by H2O2 could share the morphology characteristics and proliferative capacity similar to those of replicative one.