New Research in the Axolotl Genome

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/29/science/axolotl-dna-genome-sequence.html

Axolotl's are Mexican amphibians with an appearance resembling a tadpole-like fish. The species is under threat by habitat degradation and the importing of invasive species, however many of them live in labs around the world. The most complete look at their DNA has recently been published and could contribute greatly to human regeneration medicine. These creatures are nearly limitless in their ability to regenerate almost any part of their body including half of their brain.
I think this research presents many opportunities for scientists to learn more about the axolotl's regeneration powers and apply some of that knowledge to other animals with similar abilities.

Comments

  1. AnonymousFebruary 11, 2019 at 6:53 AM

    This seems like this could be very influential to research and aquatic life as we know it. Considering that such of large portion of creatures in the ocean have not been discovered yet, there could be more species like this out there. It is unfortunate, though, that such a unique species is basically only surviving in labs, not in their natural habitat.

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  2. AnonymousFebruary 18, 2019 at 6:55 PM

    It's insane that these creatures can regenerate up to half their brain. Hopefully scientists can keep the species reproducing enough so they can eventually return to their natural habitat and so we can continue to observe them.

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  3. AnonymousFebruary 19, 2019 at 6:49 AM

    The effects of this research has amazing potential to benefit the future of those creatures lives. Hearing about yet another animal that is suffering because of habitat degradation is upsetting and more needs to be done to help them besides keeping them in labs. The research that scientists perform will hopefully discover new ways to help unique creatures like the Axolotls.

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