Scientists to decode ‘biological morse code’ controlling cell division and cancer

TechnologyHealth & Fitness
29 Apr 2026 • 2:15 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Scientists to decode ‘biological morse code’ controlling cell division and cancer

  • A new multimillion-pound study, led by the University of Dundee in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute, will investigate cellular "light switches" crucial for cell division and their role in cancer development.
  • Researchers aim to decode the rhythmic signalling, known as phosphorylation-dephosphorylation (PdP) dynamics, which involves chemical tags turning proteins "on" and "off" rapidly to control cell behaviour.
  • The study seeks to understand how these rapid on-off cycles, described as a "biological morse code," dictate accurate cell division and how their malfunction contributes to diseases like cancer.
  • By deciphering these previously hidden signals, the team hopes to gain clearer insights into why cell division goes awry in cancer and to pave the way for more effective treatment strategies.
  • The eight-year project has secured £4 million in funding from Wellcome, highlighting the significance of this research in potentially unlocking new understandings and treatments for cancer.

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