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Things that are easier to explain by design: Cellular reprogramming

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From Science:

Abstract: Differentiated cells in a culture dish can assume a new identity when manipulated to express four transcription factors. This “reprogramming” process has sparked interest because conceivably it could be harnessed as a therapeutic strategy for tissue regeneration. Mosteiro et al. used a mouse model to study the signals that promote cell reprogramming in vivo. They found that the factors that trigger reprogramming in vitro do the same in vivo; however, they also inflict cell damage. The damaged cells enter a state of senescence and begin secreting certain factors that promote reprogramming, including an inflammatory cytokine called interleukin-6. Thus, in the physiological setting, cell senescence may create a tissue context that favors reprogramming of neighboring cells. (paywall) – Lluc Mosteiro et al., Tissue damage and senescence provide critical signals for cellular reprogramming in vivo, Science 25 Nov 2016:
Vol. 354, Issue 6315, DOI: 10.1126/science.aaf4445More.

See also: Why nanomachines are considered designed only if they are built by humans

and

Terminology watch: Hidden “intelligence” in our cells? People say that “intelligence” is just a word. No one means it. But that is their mistake. It is becoming harder all the time to pretend that Darwinism (natural selection acting on random mutation) explains what we see. Eventually, as here, writers must start using terminology that makes sense if they are to understand the story themselves, never mind conveying it accurately.

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