Scientists in Nizhny Novgorod thawed cancer cells after 12 years.

      October 24, 2025 15:32 Science Researchers from the Research Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies of PIMU conducted a unique experiment: they successfully thawed mouse colorectal cancer cells that had been in cryopreservation since 2013.

      It turned out that after 12 years the cells retained their viability and continue to function. The successful experiment was reported by Alexey Nikonov, editor-in-chief of the publication "Statsionar-Press."

      The distinctive feature of these cells is that they contain the luciferase gene — an enzyme that allows visualization of processes occurring within the cell. Thanks to this, scientists can observe cell activity in real time, which makes them valuable material for further research.

      According to the researchers, observations of these cells will continue. The data obtained could play an important role in studying the mechanisms of cancer development in humans and contribute to the development of new treatment methods.

      Earlier it was reported that the Nizhny Novgorod region will receive nearly 68 million rubles to combat cancer.

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