10 Critters That Can Regrow Body Parts (and How They Do It)

2. Axolotls: The Salamanders with Superpowers

Axolotls, or Mexican walking fish, are unique amphibians renowned for their remarkable regenerative abilities. Unlike most vertebrates, axolotls can regenerate entire limbs, spinal cords, heart tissue, and even parts of their brains. This regenerative capacity is attributed to the presence of a specialized type of cell called the blastema, which forms at the site of injury and acts as a source of new cells for tissue reconstruction. The axolotl's ability to regenerate without scarring is a subject of intense scientific interest, offering insights into scarless wound healing. The genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying axolotl regeneration are complex and involve a delicate balance of signaling pathways, including the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) pathways. These pathways regulate the proliferation and differentiation of cells within the blastema, orchestrating the precise rebuilding of tissues. The axolotl's regenerative abilities have inspired researchers to explore the potential for inducing similar regenerative responses in mammals, paving the way for advancements in regenerative therapies and tissue engineering.