Scientists who conducted biological research have created "zombie" cells, the functionality of which increases significantly after their death. The formation of this type of cells was made possible by the use of silicic acid.
Biologists from the University of New Mexico, USA, have developed an innovative technique that allowed the creation of "zombie" cells. Scientists mixed organic matter and silicic acid in a Petri dish, resulting in cells coated with silicon dioxide.
According to the study's lead author, Michael Hess, silica acts like a permeable armor that is virtually an exact replica of the cell's structure. The silica structure looks just like a living cell, but it can withstand pressure and high temperatures, which have a detrimental effect on microorganisms.
So, at a temperature of 400 degrees Celsius, the protein evaporates from the cell, but silicon dioxide remains, which is a three-dimensional copy of a previously living creature.
“The difference is that instead of modeling the face of, say, a famous criminal, we can display its internal structure and functions. Silicon dioxide-hardened cells will help us with this. Also, this valuable biological material can be converted into reusable fossils that can be used in fuel cells, sensor technologies and in the decontamination process,”says Michael Hess.
Biologist's colleague Brian Keichr clarified that the concept of mummification and "zombie" technology should be distinguished.
“Our process went without mineralization and fossilization. "Zombie" cells are a kind of chemical and biological bridge between the forms that were alive, but were able to retain their functionality in the future, "- summed up the results of the experiment Keichr.
Promotional video:
While American researchers are busy "resurrecting" microorganisms, Scottish scientists are trying to print three-dimensional human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) on a printer.
Anna Romantseva