Could Humans Regrow Limbs Through Genetic Pathways?

 

https://neurosciencenews.com/sp-gene-limb-regeneration-30553/

https://scitechdaily.com/could-humans-regrow-limbs-new-study-reveals-promising-genetic-pathway/

    A new combined research effort between scientists at Wake Forest University, Duke University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison looked into the possibility of limb regrowth in humans by examining three different species.  The research compared a shared genetic pathway between axolotls, zebrafish and mice that allow these organisms to regrow lost body parts.   The finding was posted to Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and implies a possible future where gene therapy is used by humans to regrow limbs.  

The combined research discovered the presence of SP genes in all three organisms that is responsible for regenerating the skin.  When the team removed this gene from an axolotl it was no longer able to regenerate its limbs properly.  However, when they artificially added the FGF8 molecule from the zebrafish into the axolotl limb regeneration was partially achieved.  This showed the research team that this genetic pathway could be artificially activated even without the presence of SP genes.  Although we are far from being able to fully regrow limbs, this cross species research could lay the ground work for a futuristic cure for amputations.