KAIST develops breakthrough cancer therapy by reverting cancer cells to normal

Researchers at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) have unveiled a revolutionary technology that treats colon cancer by converting cancer cells into normal-like cells without destroying them, significantly reducing side effects.

Led by Professor Kwang-Hyun Cho from the Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, the team developed a “digital twin” of the gene network that guides normal cell differentiation.

Through simulations and experiments, they identified molecular switches capable of inducing cancer cells to revert to a normal state, a result confirmed in animal studies. Unlike traditional therapies focused on destroying cancer cells, this approach systematically reprograms them, avoiding issues like drug resistance and damage to healthy cells.

Professor Cho described the findings as a milestone for “reversible cancer therapy,” offering a foundation for treatments applicable across various cancer types. Published in Advanced Science, the research was supported by Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT. The findings are being transferred to BioRevert Inc. for further development.