Summary
FOXO4-DRI is a modified peptide designed to disrupt the interaction between FOXO4 and p53 in senescent cells, pushing those cells into apoptosis. In a 2017 study in mice, it restored fitness, fur density and kidney function in naturally and prematurely aged animals.
Structure
A D-retro-inverso peptide (D-amino acids in reversed order) based on part of the FOXO4 protein, which makes it resistant to proteases.
How it works
Senescent cells rely on FOXO4 binding p53 to stay alive. Blocking that interaction releases p53 to the mitochondria and triggers apoptosis selectively in senescent cells.
Research use cases
Areas where FOXO4-DRI has been studied. Inclusion here does not mean it works for that purpose.
- Senescent cell clearance
- Chemotherapy-induced senescence
- Ageing models
What the research found
Mouse ageing study
Baar and colleagues reported that FOXO4-DRI selectively killed senescent cells and improved fitness, fur and kidney function in fast-ageing and naturally aged mice.1
Safety and open questions
No human data. Effects of eliminating senescent cells in people are still being studied with other senolytics.
Regulatory status
Preclinical. No human studies. Sold for research use.
Status was accurate when this page was last reviewed on October 26, 2026. Regulations change; check with the relevant authority before relying on it.
FOXO4-DRI: common questions
Is FOXO4-DRI in clinical trials?
Not as of our last review. Other senolytic drugs (such as dasatinib with quercetin) have reached early human trials.
Is FOXO4-DRI approved for human use?
Preclinical. No human studies. Sold for research use.
References
- Baar MP, Brandt RMC, Putavet DA, et al. (2017). Targeted Apoptosis of Senescent Cells Restores Tissue Homeostasis in Response to Chemotoxicity and Aging. Cell.
Links open a PubMed search for the exact title, or the original source where one is given.