For centuries people and other mammals have not been able to regrow lost limbs. A new study in Nature Communications by researchers at Texas A&M University suggests mammals may still have a hidden ability to regenerate. Ken Muneoka led the work.
The team tested a two-step treatment with two growth factors. They applied FGF2 after the wound closed, which produced a blastema-like or special healing tissue. Several days later they applied BMP2, and those cells began forming bone, joints, tendon, ligament and other connective tissues. The tissues were not perfect copies, but they resembled natural parts. Because BMP2 is already FDA approved for some uses and FGF2 is in clinical trials, the approach could move more quickly into clinical study and first help reduce scarring and improve repair.
Difficult words
- regenerate — to grow new parts after injury
- growth factor — a natural protein that helps cells growgrowth factors
- blastema-like — a special group of cells for healing
- connective tissue — tissue that connects bones and musclesconnective tissues
- scarring — the thick mark left after a wound heals
- tendon — strong tissue that connects muscle to bone
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How would reduced scarring or better repair help a person after an injury?
- Would you feel excited or worried about a treatment that helps tissues regrow? Why?
- Have you seen or heard about a medical trial before? What do you remember about it?
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