Scientists Discover Gene That Could Enable Human Limb Regrowth
Researchers from Wake Forest University, Duke University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified a set of genes that may one day allow humans to regrow limbs. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, focused on axolotls, zebrafish, and mice, which are known for their regenerative abilities. The research revealed that genes SP6 and SP8 play a crucial role in limb regeneration across these species. Using CRISPR technology, scientists demonstrated that removing SP8 from axolotls hindered their ability to regenerate limb bones. Similarly, mice showed regeneration issues when SP6 and SP8 were absent. The study suggests that future therapies could mimic these genetic mechanisms to promote human limb regrowth.