CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology scientists have discovered a novel method to accelerate tissue repair and regeneration. This discovery opens a new frontier in cell biology, with significant implications for regenerative medicine and cancer biology.
Led by Santosh Chauhan, the scientists showed that cells have a built-in way to revive from the brink of death. The process of revival is highly programmed and mimics developmental growth. Such a revival, which they called as ‘Programmed Cell Revival’, sped up skin wound healing and repaired corneal burns in mice, stimulated tail regeneration in frog tadpoles, promoted nerve repair in worms, and enhanced blood stem cell production in fruit flies.
The study published in EMBO Journal has overturned the long-held belief that once a cell begins to die, its journey is irreversible.
“What we see is not accidental survival of cells. Rather, we find that cells across organisms have the ability to follow a common mechanism that can reactivate their developmental, metabolic, and immune pathways to restore their full cellular function. This discovery reshapes how we think about life, death, and healing at the cellular level,” said Dr. Chauhan.
The scientists have filed for Indian and international patents for this finding.
Scientists also cautioned that the same revival program could pose risks in certain contexts, particularly cancer.
“Many cancer drug screens rely on superficial signs of cell death, but this study warns that such cells may not be truly dead — and could revive with enhanced stem-like properties, potentially making tumours more aggressive. While Programmed Cell Revival mechanisms may be a blessing for regenerative medicine strategies, they possibly reduce the efficacy of cancer treatments,” he said.
Published – August 27, 2025 12:07 pm IST
