Korean researchers have developed a technology that treats colon cancer by converting cancer cells into a state resembling normal colon cells.
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) unveiled a new technology that treats colon cancer without killing cancer cells.
Instead, the technology converts cancer cells into a state resembling normal colon cells, effectively avoiding harmful side effects.
This innovative approach challenges the traditional notion of cancer treatment where many therapies come with limitations, remission risk and side effects.
The research team, led by Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho from the Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, observed that during the process of oncogenesis (cancer formation), normal cells regress along their differentiation trajectory—a pathway that defines how cells mature and specialise.
Building on this understanding, the team created a digital twin of the gene network responsible for cell differentiation.
Using advanced simulation analysis, the researchers identified key molecular “master switches” that can trigger colon cancer cells to revert to a more normal-like state.
When these switches were applied to colon cancer cells, the results were remarkable.
Laboratory experiments, including molecular and cellular studies, along with animal trials, confirmed that cancer cells could indeed be reverted to a state that closely resembles normal colon cells.
Instead of relying on serendipitous discoveries, the team demonstrated that cancer cell reversion can be systematically achieved by analysing and utilising the digital twin of the gene network.