The article reviews the viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state in pathogenic bacteria, a condition where cells remain alive but are unable to grow on standard laboratory media. The VBNC state is believed to be a survival strategy, and it has been observed in a wide range of bacteria, including human pathogens. The review discusses the factors that induce the VBNC state, such as nutrient starvation, temperature changes, and osmotic stress, and the cellular traits and gene expression changes that occur during this state. It also covers the antibiotic resistance, retention of virulence, and ability to attach and persist in the environment of VBNC cells. The article highlights the importance of catalase in the VBNC response, particularly in *Vibrio vulnificus*, and the role of various resuscitation factors, including extracellular proteins and quorum-sensing systems. The VBNC state is significant for its potential to allow pathogens to survive and reinitiate infections, and the review emphasizes the need for further research to understand its mechanisms and implications.The article reviews the viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state in pathogenic bacteria, a condition where cells remain alive but are unable to grow on standard laboratory media. The VBNC state is believed to be a survival strategy, and it has been observed in a wide range of bacteria, including human pathogens. The review discusses the factors that induce the VBNC state, such as nutrient starvation, temperature changes, and osmotic stress, and the cellular traits and gene expression changes that occur during this state. It also covers the antibiotic resistance, retention of virulence, and ability to attach and persist in the environment of VBNC cells. The article highlights the importance of catalase in the VBNC response, particularly in *Vibrio vulnificus*, and the role of various resuscitation factors, including extracellular proteins and quorum-sensing systems. The VBNC state is significant for its potential to allow pathogens to survive and reinitiate infections, and the review emphasizes the need for further research to understand its mechanisms and implications.