As futuristic as it sounds, a recent study of the sea anemone shows that if you cut the anemone into multiple parts, each part will regenerate into a new animal. Scientists learned that if they can discover how to make the genes talk to each other, they may discover how to treat heart conditions and stimulate regenerative healing in humans.
The genes in vertebrates and flies have what is referred to as lockdown loops. That means that once the genes are active, they tell each other to stay where they are. By learning how to unlock the genes or make them talk to each other, scientists hope to be able to imitate the sea anemone’s ability to regenerate.
Of course, if they succeed in doing this, all animals will benefit, including our beloved pets.
A Blog by Susan Bulanda 