Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery of a mysterious "third state" that exists beyond life and death. In this state, cells from dead organisms including humans, continue to function and even gain new capabilities that they did not have while alive. Researchers from the University of Washington and City of Hope National Medical Center have found that certain cells, like white blood cells and even skin cells from dead frogs can transform into new forms. These cells can reorganize and move and in some cases, even repair themselves. This breakthrough could have major implications, potentially redefining legal death. The study raises questions about how these cells can survive and function after death.

The research offers new insights into biology and could revolutionize our understanding of life and death. In 2021, researchers in the US found that skin cells from dead frogs were able to adapt to a petri dish in a lab, spontaneously reorganizing into multicellular organisms called xenobots. These organisms showed behaviours beyond their original biological roles by using their cilia small, hair-like structures to move through their surroundings. Other scientists also found that human lung cells can self-assemble into miniature multicellular organisms that can move around. These anthrobots not only can navigate their surroundings but also repair both themselves and injured nerve cells nearby.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan