Mechanisms of tissue regeneration

The regeneration of lost body parts is one of the most fascinating processes in nature. While regeneration in humans is limited, some animals undergo full tissue regeneration in response to even severe injuries. We use planarian flatworms and a mammalian model of regeneration, the African spiny mouse, to understand the secrets of successful regeneration. Both animals are capable of restoring complex tissues, such as the head in planarians and full-thickness skin and cartilage in the spiny mouse, without scarring. Additionally, by comparing related species that have different regenerative outcomes, we aim at discovering the mediators, as well as the road blocks of this process, in order to find new approaches for regenerative therapies.

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