CCMB Scientists Uncover Cell Revival for Healing

Breakthrough in Regeneration Research

Hyderabad, 26 August 2025: A research team from CSIR–Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, has uncovered a mechanism that allows cells to revive from the brink of death and accelerate tissue repair. The team, led by Santosh Chauhan, demonstrated that this process, termed Programmed Cell Revival, mimics developmental growth and significantly improves tissue regeneration.

The scientists showed that 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 boosted blood stem cell production in fruit flies. The findings, published in EMBO Journal, challenge the long-held view that cell death is an irreversible process. Patents for the discovery have been filed in India and internationally.

Implications for Healing and Cancer Treatment

According to Chauhan, this is not accidental survival but a conserved biological program where cells re-activate developmental, metabolic, and immune pathways to regain full functionality. While the discovery opens promising avenues for regenerative medicine, the researchers also warned of potential risks.

They noted that many cancer drug screenings rely on visible signs of cell death. If such cells revive with stem-like properties, they may reduce the effectiveness of cancer therapies and make tumors more aggressive. The study, therefore, carries dual significance — offering a new path for regenerative medicine while urging caution in oncology.

The discovery is expected to reshape approaches to cellular biology, healing, and cancer research, engaging regenerative medicine specialists and cancer biologists worldwide.