Ancient garfish might hold the key to limb regeneration

Scientists at Michigan State University are seriously researching the topic of limb regeneration. In the course of their research, they have taken an interest in a particular animal - the garfish.

The fish and mammals on our planet today share a common ancestor that had highly advanced regeneration abilities. In the course of evolution, most land dwellers (except salamanders) have lost this ability, but certain species of fish have retained it in its original state. The most striking example is the garfish.

This fish can rebuild the endochondral bones in its fins, which are the equivalents of human arms and legs. Michigan State University scientists are interested in studying this ability in greater detail: they believe that it will give them the key to human regeneration.

Apparently, the genes responsible for this process in fish are also present in humans. However, they are largely dormant, so biologists need to discover new mechanisms to activate them.