by Playfuls Staff |
14th December 2006
U.S. researchers have determined some cells must die for regeneration to occur, moving science closer to understanding how a [more] limb or organ can be grown.
The Forsyth Institute researchers say their findings might provide insight into mechanisms necessary for therapeutic regeneration in humans, potentially addressing tissues that are lost, damaged or non-functional as a result of genetic syndromes, diseases, accidents, and aging.
Using Xenopus tadpoles for their study, the Forsyth team examined the cellular underpinnings of regeneration.
The research, led by Michael Levin, director of the Forsyth Center for Regenerative and Developmental Biology, found apoptosis has a novel role in development and a critical role in regeneration.
"We were surprised to see that some cells need to be removed for regeneration to proceed," said Ai-Sun Tseng, the study's first author. "It is exciting to think that someday this process could be managed to allow medically therapeutic regeneration."
The findings are to be published in the Jan. 1 issue of the journal Developmental Biology.
© 2006 UPI
