Biologist Create “Zombie” Cells Stronger than Normal Cells Dylan Duarte February 22, 2013 Extras The zombie menace might be finally be among us – and it might not be a menace at all. A team of researchers at Sandia National Laboratories and the University of New Mexico have created near-perfect replica “zombie” cells by coating mammalian cells in silica. The replica cells can withstand greater pressures and temperatures than flesh, as well as perform many functions better than their counterparts. The cells are painted with silicic acid, which embalms the organic matter down to the nanometer level. The silica then acts as armor. When heated to around 400c, the protein with the cell evaporates, but the silica remains intact. “Our zombie cells bridge chemistry and biology to create forms that not only near-perfectly resemble their past selves, but can do future work,” said lead researcher Bryan Kaehr. The zombie apocalypse is going to be more terrifying than anyone originally thought. via HuffPost Share This With The World!
