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

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  • 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.

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COAS Visits Bannu and Promises Terrorism Justice

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Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff, traveled to Bannu after the March 4 terrorist attack on Bannu cantonment was thwarted.
COAS examined the general security situation in the region as well as ongoing security operations during the visit.
At CMH Bannu, he also spoke with wounded soldiers and praised their tenacity and commitment. Speaking to the troops, he reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s commitment to combating terrorism and commended their prompt action in neutralizing the assailants.
In addition to expressing sympathy to the families of the civilians slain in the strike, General Munir promised that those responsible for the planning and execution would shortly face consequences.
He emphasized that such activities reveal Khwarij’s true nature as enemies of Islam and denounced the savage targeting of innocent people.
The COAS underlined that Pakistan will not permit its stability to be jeopardized and that terrorist organizations, such as Fitna al-Khawarij, continue to use foreign weapons while operating from Afghan territory.
When he arrived, Corps Commander Peshawar welcomed him.

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Ethiopia-Pakistan Relations: Ethiopian Ambassador Presents Fraternity Award to Khawaja Asif

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Khawaja Muhammad Asif, the minister of defense and aviation, received the “Ethiopia-Pakistan fraternity award” from Ethiopian Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker.
In appreciation of Khawaja Asif’s noteworthy contributions to enhancing Pakistan-Ethiopia bilateral ties, the award was given out.
The Ethiopian Envoy, who spoke at the event, praised the Minister’s work to strengthen the two countries’ diplomatic and economic relations.
The Ethiopian Ambassador said, “Khawaja Muhammad Asif has played a pivotal role in enhancing Ethiopia-Pakistan relations.”
Additionally, he recognized the minister’s pivotal involvement in Ethiopian Airlines’ establishment in Pakistan, which has strengthened connections between the two nations.
In addition to thanking Ethiopia and its ambassador for the honor, Khawaja Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to developing closer ties with Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian Ambassador emphasized that Pakistan and Ethiopia had better bilateral ties than before.

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Issues Affecting Pakistan’s Textile Mills Industry: The Government Is Determined To Address Textile Industry Concerns: FM

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Muhammad Aurangzeb, minister of finance, has stated that the government is firmly committed to helping the textile industry in every way possible.
He made this pledge today in Islamabad during a meeting with the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association’s leadership.
In order to guarantee the long-term sustainability and future expansion of Pakistan’s industrial sector, the Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing important tax, energy, and funding challenges.
He welcomed the APTMA office-bearers and gave the delegation his word that the government is committed to resolving the issues facing the textile industry since it understands how important it is to Pakistan’s economy.
Muhammad Aurangzeb underlined that resolving the fundamental issues facing the sector is essential to establishing an atmosphere that is favorable for industrial expansion, promoting economic stability, and bolstering the country’s overall growth trajectory.

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