UW worm study shows humans may be able to regrow body parts someday

The acorn worm, which has a genetic makeup and body plan similar to humans, can regrow every body part.

A study led by the University of Washington says:

If scientists can unlock the genetic network responsible for this feat, they might be able to regrow limbs in humans through manipulating our own similar genetic heritage.

The study finds that when an acorn worm is cut in half, it regrows head or tail parts on opposite ends in exact proportion to the existing half.

Now, imagine if humans could do the same.

The researchers analyzed the gene expression patterns of acorn worms as they regrew body parts.

According to an article from UWToday,

When these gene patterns are known, eventually tissue from a person with an amputation could be collected and the genes in those cells activated to go down a regeneration pathway. Then, a tissue graft could be placed on the end of a severed limb and the arm or leg could regrow to the right size.

The researchers are working to determine which type of cells the worms are using to regenerate.

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