Technology That Transforms Cancer Cells into Normal Ones Opens New Horizons in Cancer Treatment

To date, most cancer treatment methods focus on destroying cancer cells, which is associated with a number of serious limitations. These methods often lead to the development of resistance, disease recurrence, and are accompanied by significant side effects due to the destruction of healthy cells.

On December 20, 2024, KAIST (President Kwang Hyun Lee) announced a significant achievement by its research group, led by Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho from the Department of Bioengineering and Neurobiology, who developed an innovative technology for treating colorectal cancer. The technology allows for the transformation of cancer cells into a state that closely resembles normal colorectal cells, avoiding their destruction and, consequently, the side effects of traditional treatment methods.

The scientists focused on studying the process of oncogenesis, during which normal cells lose their differentiation. Based on this knowledge, the group developed a methodology for creating a digital twin of the genetic network that regulates cell differentiation.

Research Results

As a result of analysis and modeling, the scientists were able to identify key molecular switches responsible for normal cell differentiation. By applying these molecular switches to colorectal cancer cells, the researchers achieved a return of cancer cells to a normal state, which was confirmed by molecular studies, cell experiments, and animal testing.

This breakthrough highlights the importance of a systemic approach in cancer treatment, where the reversion of cancer cells is possible due to precise analysis and the use of a digital twin of the genetic network, rather than relying on random discoveries. This approach opens up prospects for the development of reversible treatment methods applicable to various types of cancer.

This phenomenon of returning cancer cells to a normal state is truly a revolutionary discovery. This study has proven that such a process can be induced through a targeted and systematic approach.

Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho emphasized: “Our research offers a new perspective on reversible cancer therapy, turning cancer cells back into normal ones. This discovery lays the groundwork for developing technologies that will allow systematic analysis of normal cell differentiation trajectories to identify targets for cancer reversion.”

The work also involved Jeong-Ryeol Gon, Chun-Kyung Lee, Hong-Min Kim, Juhi Kim, and Jaeog Chon. The results were published on December 11, 2024, in the journal Advanced Science by Wiley.