Body Cells Regeneration

What is regeneration?

Regeneration is the natural process of replacing or restoring damaged or missing cells, tissues, organs, and even entire body parts to full function in plants and animals. Scientists are studying regeneration for its potential uses in medicine, such as treating various injuries and diseases. Researchers hope to learn more about the human ageing process through regeneration studies. This rapidly advancing field is called regenerative medicine.

What organisms can regenerate?

All living organisms have some ability to regenerate as part of natural processes to maintain tissues and organs. Some animals have extensive regenerative abilities. For example, a tiny freshwater animal called Hydra can form two whole bodies after being cut in half. The axolotl, or Mexican salamander, is an animal with a backbone that can regenerate the form and function of almost any limb, organ, or other body parts.

More complex animals, such as mammals, have limited regenerative capacities. These include:

• Forming thick scars in tissues and skin promotes the healing of injured or amputated body parts.

• Regrowing hair and skin.

• Healing a bone fracture by using new tissue to knit the bone pieces together.

How is regeneration related to ageing?

Throughout an organism’s life, its cells regenerate. But as part of the ageing process, this ability gradually declines. To better understand the changes that occur, scientists are studying animals that show few signs of ageing throughout their lifespans. Sea urchins, for example, can reproduce and regrow damaged parts throughout their lives. Because they maintain these abilities, sea urchins may help scientists answer human ageing and regeneration questions.