Using molecular biology and cell biology approaches to detect senescent cells in atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe−/−) mice, we found that PPARα delayed atherosclerotic plaque formation by inhibiting vascular endothelial cell senescence, which was achieved by regulating the expression of growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11). The gene discussed is GDF11; the disease is atherosclerosis.