Programmed Cell Revival

Researchers at CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad discovered a survival mechanism named Programmed Cell Revival (PCR).

• The Study was published in The EMBO Journal.

About the Discovery

• Normal understanding: Programmed Cell Death (apoptosis/lysosome-mediated death) considered irreversible.
• New finding: Cells can reverse from near-death state via a molecularly regulated revival programme.

What is Programmed Cell Death ? 

• Programmed Cell Death is a genetically controlled, natural process by which cells deliberately self-destruct in an orderly manner for the benefit of the organism.
• Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death where cells self-destruct upon receiving specific signals.
• Role in Development: Helps shape body structures, such as removing the cells between fingers in a developing embryo.
• Role in Adults: Eliminates cells that are damaged, infected, or potentially cancerous, thereby protecting the body from threats to survival.

Programmed Cell Revival (PCRv)

• Opposite of Programmed Cell Death (Apoptosis).

Key Features of Programmed Cell Revival

• Triggered when a sub-lethal dose of death-inducing agent (L-leucyl-L-leucine methyl ester – LLOMe) used.

• Cells initially showed features of apoptosis (rounding, detachment, blebbing, mitochondrial disruption).
• Instead of death → 80–90% cells revived within hours, regained morphology, and resumed division.
• Revival involves de-differentiation → cells become stem-like, capable of regeneration.

Potential Applications

• Regenerative medicine: Faster recovery in wounds, stroke, heart attack, tissue repair.
• Neurodegenerative diseases: Regeneration of axons and neurons.
• Ageing & infection biology: Cell revival pathways may slow degeneration.
• Self-healing therapies: Body heals using its intrinsic revival code.

Concerns & Risks

• Cancer relapse risk: Suboptimal chemotherapy/radiotherapy may allow tumour cells to exploit revival code turning to stem-like, therapy-resistant.
  • Need drugs to inhibit PCR in cancer therapy to reduce relapse.

Significance

• Scientific Breakthrough: Opens a new chapter in cell biology by blurring the line between cell death and repair.
• Regenerative Insight: Provides  molecular evidence for cells’ intrinsic ability to regenerate.
• Global First: Marks the first discovery of a genetically encoded revival code in cells.

About Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad

• Research Role: A premier CSIR institute in Hyderabad, CCMB conducts advanced research and training in modern biology and provides national facilities for cutting-edge interdisciplinary techniques.
• Establishment: Originated on April 1, 1977 as a semi-autonomous centre from the Biochemistry Division of the Regional Research Laboratory (now IICT, Hyderabad).
• Recognition: Designated as a “Centre of Excellence” by UNESCO’s Global Molecular and Cell Biology Network.

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