Proposed Cellular Functionality Beyond Mortality

• 25 Sep 2024

Why in News?

Recent research suggests the existence of a "third state" that challenges conventional definitions of life and death, proposing that some cells and tissues can function after an organism's death, opening up new questions about cellular capabilities and their implications for biology and medicine.

What is the Proposed 'Third State'?

• About: The concept of a "third state" refers to a condition where cells and tissues exhibit characteristics that challenge the traditional definitions of life and death. Instead of viewing death as a complete cessation of biological functions, research indicates that certain cells can continue to operate and adapt after the organism's death.
• Examples of Cellular Functionality after Mortality:
  • Xenobots: Skin cells from deceased frog embryos were observed to spontaneously form new multicellular structures, known as xenobots.
    • These xenobots displayed behaviours beyond their original biological functions, using their cilia (tiny hair-like projections) to navigate and move, unlike in living frog embryos where cilia are used to propel mucus.
    • Xenobots can undergo kinematic self-replication, allowing them to duplicate their form and functions without traditional growth. This process differs from familiar replication methods, which involve growth within or on the organism.
  • Anthrobots: Studies have shown that individual human lung cells can spontaneously form tiny, multicellular entities called anthrobots.
    • Anthrobots made from human tracheal (part of the respiratory system) cells, these bio-robots exhibit unique behaviours, allowing them to move, self-repair, and restore nearby damaged neuron cells.
• Implications of the Third State: The notion of a third state prompts a re-evaluation of life and death, suggesting biological systems may not be bound to linear life cycles.
  • Understanding how cells function after death could lead to breakthroughs in organ preservation and transplantation, improving the viability of donor organs and patient outcomes.

How Do Cells Survive After Death?

• Cellular Longevity: Various cells exhibit different survival durations after an organism’s death.
  • White Blood Cells: Typically perish within 60 to 86 hours post-mortem.
  • Skeletal Muscle Cells: In mice, these can be regenerated for up to 14 days.
  • Fibroblast Cells: Sheep and goat cells can be cultured for approximately one month after death.
• Influencing Factors: Environmental conditions (Temperature, oxygen levels), metabolic activity, and preservation techniques like Cryopreservation (storing biological samples at low temperatures) influence post-mortem cell and tissue survival.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q. Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?(2022)

(a) They protect the environmental allergens. body

(b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.

(c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.

(d) They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.

Ans: (d)