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Innovative Approach to Colon Cancer Treatment Identified by KAIST Research Team
In the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, the overarching objective remains the complete eradication of cancerous cells. However, this traditional methodology is fraught with challenges, such as the development of resistance by cancer cells and the collateral damage caused to healthy cells, leading to significant adverse effects.
On December 20, 2023, KAIST, under the leadership of President Kwang Hyung Lee, revealed a pioneering advancement in oncology. A research team headed by Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho from the Department of Bio and Brain Engineering has successfully created a novel technology capable of treating colon cancer by transforming cancer cells into a state that closely resembles normal colon cells, all while preserving the integrity of the cells and minimizing side effects.
The researchers concentrated on the observation that normal cells can regress along their differentiation pathways during the progression of cancer. Capitalizing on this key insight, they devised a technology to form a digital twin of the gene network associated with the differentiation processes of healthy cells.
Through comprehensive simulation analyses, the team meticulously pinpointed the master molecular switches responsible for facilitating the differentiation of normal cells. When these switches were introduced to colon cancer cells, the transformation back to a normal-like state was achieved. This finding was substantiated through various molecular and cellular experiments, alongside comprehensive animal studies.
This research underscores the idea that reverting cancer cells to a normal state can be systematically achieved by analyzing and leveraging the digital twin of the gene network linked to cancer cells, moving beyond the reliance on random discoveries. The implications of these findings are substantial, as they suggest the potential for reversible cancer therapies applicable across diverse cancer types.
Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho commented on the significance of the study, stating, “The ability to revert cancer cells back to normal cells is an extraordinary phenomenon. This research validates that such a transformation can be systematically initiated.”
He further noted, “This work introduces a revolutionary concept of reversible cancer therapy by converting cancer cells back into normal cells. Additionally, it lays the groundwork for identifying targets for cancer reversion through a systematic exploration of normal cell differentiation trajectories.”
Support for this important study was provided by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Foundation of Korea through initiatives like the Mid-Career Researcher Program and the Basic Research Laboratory Program. The promising findings from this research are being advanced further at BioRevert Inc., which aims to facilitate the development of effective cancer reversion therapies.
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