A recent study on fruit flies reveals a surprising mechanism for healing processes triggered by premature cell death, known as necrosis. When cells die due to illness or injury, such as heart attacks and strokes, the surrounding tissue can send out signals encouraging growth in healthier areas.
Researchers at Arizona State University discovered that certain enzymes called caspases play a role in this process. Unlike apoptosis, which is a planned cell death, these caspases promote healing in some cells when triggered by necrosis.
“This finding adds to our understanding of how caspases contribute to repair and shows for the first time that they can promote healing after cell death,” says geneticist Rob Harris.
The research builds on previous findings and provides new insights into the process. If this mechanism can be harnessed, it could potentially lead to new treatments for tissue damage and regeneration.
While further study is needed, especially in humans, the discovery has significant implications for our understanding of healing processes. The researchers are hopeful that their findings will shed light on how to improve tissue repair and regeneration, particularly as we age.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/dying-cells-play-a-vital-unexpected-role-in-healing-study-shows