Connect with us

Latest News

What are ‘zombie cells’ and are they good for you?

Published

on

  • Ends of chromosomes are called telomeres that protect genetic material.
  • Each time cells divide, telomeres shorten and weaken.
  • Cells avoid turning cancerous by becoming zombie-like in process called cellular senescence.

If the ends of our chromosomes are damaged, “zombie cells” can take birth. These cells are alive but unable to function, according to a new study published in Nature Structural and Molecular Biology.

The ends of chromosomes are called telomeres that protect the genetic material. They form a protective lid on the chromosomes.

Each time cells divide, telomeres shorten and weaken. With age, therefore, telomeres lose their strength as the cells keep dividing. This means DNA becomes more prone to damage.

This damage can lead to gene mutation which can further result in cancer.

Cells avoid turning cancerous by becoming zombie-like in a process called cellular senescence.

These senescent cells are resistant to death. They can be good for health by inviting immune cells to fight any cancer cells.

However, they can also hinder tissue healing and immune functions by releasing chemicals that cause tumour growth.

Researchers decided to figure whether damaged telomeres are the only reason for cell senescence.

Findings confirmed that telomere damage was enough to trigger zombie cells even when it was not shortened. 

It is important because senescence can be triggered prematurely and cause age-related illnesses like cardiovascular disease, immunodeficiency, and cancer.

Therefore, telomeres are not only alerting bells indicating that a cell has divided too many times but also signals harmful levels of oxidative stress.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest News

Iranian President Offers Condolences for Kurram Terrorist Attack

Published

on

By

Masoud Pezeshkian, the president of Iran, has expressed his sorrow for the recent terrorist assault in Pakistan that claimed dozens of lives and denounced the crime.

The Iranian president said that all types of terrorism must be denounced in a statement. In addition to the relatives of the attack victims, he sent his sympathies to the people and government of Pakistan.

“I will stand by its friendly and brotherly country, Pakistan, and will seriously pursue the fight against terrorism to enhance security and stability in the region,” he added.

Continue Reading

Latest News

It’s unfortunate that political points were scored. Claims Against Saudi Arabia Show a Desperate Attitude: Dar

Published

on

By

According to Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, the deputy prime minister and foreign minister, accusing Saudi Arabia of gaining political points is a sign of a desperate attitude.

In response to the PTI founder’s spouse’s remarks on Saudi Arabia, the Deputy Prime Minister stated, “Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are close friends and brothers.”

According to Dar, Saudi Arabia’s path of growth and prosperity is something they greatly admire. The nation of Pakistan takes pride in its strong ties with Saudi Arabia, which has supported it no matter what.

He said it is unfortunate and shows a desperate attitude to “implice Saudi Arabia for petty political point scoring.”

In order to prevent any political forces from jeopardizing Pakistan’s foreign policy, the deputy prime minister of their political objectives.”

Continue Reading

Latest News

Examining Drug Mafia: Balochistani Smuggling Operation Started

Published

on

By

Two drug dealers were detained and an international narcotics deal was thwarted in Balochistan by government institutions.

A significant amount of crystal ice was taken from the individuals who were arrested.

The 70 kg of illegal goods that were found are valued about $1 million on the global market.

The arrested person’s cell phone also yielded contact information for the international drug gangs from Afghanistan and Britain.

The Pakistan Security Forces are dedicated to making the nation drug-free.

Continue Reading

Trending