Chinese scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that could change the future of medicine. They have identified a genetic switch that allows mammals to regenerate damaged organs, a trait previously thought to be limited to creatures like salamanders and fish.
The study, published in the journal Science, reveals that flipping on a disabled gene involved in Vitamin A metabolism enabled rodents to regrow ear tissue. This gene, known as Aldh1a2, is typically inactive in mammals after injury, limiting their ability to heal fully.
“Regeneration is a beneficial trait found in some animals but lost in others,” said Wang Wei, who led the research team from the National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS). “Understanding how regeneration has evolved can open new doors in regenerative medicine.”
The researchers discovered that low expression of Aldh1a2 leads to insufficient production of retinoic acid (RA), a compound crucial for tissue regeneration. By activating the gene or supplementing RA using a gene enhancer from rabbits, they were able to restore regenerative abilities in mice and rats.
“This finding provides a potential framework for addressing why some organs or species fail to regenerate,” Wang explained. “It could potentially lead to strategies for promoting regeneration in organs that typically cannot heal themselves.”
RA signaling plays a significant role in various forms of regeneration, including bone, limb, skin, nerve, and lung tissues. The breakthrough suggests that enhancing RA pathways could be key to unlocking regenerative therapies for humans.
“This study identifies a direct target in the evolution of regeneration,” commented Stella M. Hurtley, editor of the journal. “It offers exciting possibilities for future medical advancements.”
