“Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed an innovative approach to treating colon cancer by reprogramming malignant cells back into their normal state. The team, led by Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho, created a digital twin—a virtual replica—of the gene network associated with normal colon cell differentiation. By analyzing this model, they identified key molecular switches that, when manipulated, induced cancer cells to revert to a normal-like state. This groundbreaking method was validated through molecular and cellular experiments, as well as animal studies, offering a potential alternative to traditional therapies that focus on destroying cancer cells.
This research introduces the concept of reversible cancer therapy, aiming to transform cancer cells into their original, healthy form. By systematically analyzing the differentiation trajectories of normal cells, the team developed foundational technology to identify targets for inducing cancer cell reversion. This approach could potentially minimize the side effects associated with conventional treatments and address issues of drug resistance, paving the way for more effective and less invasive cancer therapies.” Click for More Details