Scientists Discover ‘Third State’ Beyond Life and Death in Major Breakthrough
We have always believed that death was a definitive end. But what if some cells were able to survive, restructure and even transform themselves after the death of the organism? This idea, which seems to come straight out of a science fiction novel, is now at the heart of scientific research.
Biologists have recently discovered that some cells, far from disappearing immediately after death, can regroup and form new functional structures. This phenomenon raises fascinating questions about biology and could revolutionize medicine.
Cells that refuse to die
The idea of a “third state” between life and death is based on a surprising observation: some cells remain active long after the death of the organism. This phenomenon has already been demonstrated in organ transplants, where cells survive and function despite the death of the donor.
Researchers wanted to go further by studying these cells from a new angle. In particular, they observed that skin cells taken from dead frog embryos could group together and formerly form living structures called xenobots. These xenobots were not simple isolated cells: they could move and perform certain tasks, suggesting a form of life emerging after death.
Biobots and anthropobots: towards a new medicine?
If cells can survive and reassemble after death, can they be used for medical treatments? This is a fascinating avenue that researchers are exploring.
They imagine biobots, multicellular structures capable of performing specific tasks in the human body. Better yet, anthropobots could be created from a patient’s own cells to perform specific medical missions without causing immune rejection.
For example:
Unclogging arteries: anthropobots could dissolve cholesterol plaques and prevent heart attacks.
Treating cystic fibrosis: by eliminating excess mucus in the lungs.
Transporting drugs: by precisely targeting diseased areas while limiting side effects.
How far can this discovery go?
Although promising, this approach raises many questions. What are the limits of this cellular plasticity? Can we really control these new structures to avoid adverse effects?
Researchers estimate that these reassembled cells would not survive more than 60 days, thus limiting the risks of uncontrolled proliferation. But further studies are needed to better understand these mechanisms.
This “third state” could well redefine our understanding of life and death. And above all, it opens up incredible medical perspectives, ranging from cell regeneration to tailor-made treatments. One thing is certain: we are only at the beginning of a scientific revolution.
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