Plasticity for axolotl lens regeneration is associated with age-related changes in gene expression

Regeneration, 2014 · DOI: 10.1002/reg2.25 · Published: September 3, 2014

Simple Explanation

This study explores why axolotls lose their ability to regenerate lenses as they age. Researchers compared gene expression in young and old axolotl irises after lens removal. They found that genes related to cell growth and metabolism were more active in young irises, while genes related to immunity and cell differentiation were more active in older irises. These changes in gene expression appear to correlate with the development of the immune system and the maturation of cells, suggesting that these factors play a role in the loss of regenerative ability.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Axolotl larvae (7 days and 3 months post-hatching)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Over 3700 genes were identified as differentially expressed between young (7 days post-hatching) and old (3 months post-hatching) axolotl larvae.
2
Genes highly expressed in young iris significantly enriched electron transport chain, transcription, metabolism, and cell cycle gene ontologies.
3
Genes associated with cellular differentiation and tissue maturation were uniquely expressed in old iris.

Research Summary

This study compares the early transcriptional response of iris to lentectomy between young and old axolotl larvae that differed in regeneration competence. The many highly differentially expressed genes identified in our study are probably explained by the presence and absence of different cell types between young and old iris tissue and age-related changes in cellular differentiation. In this study the early transcriptional response of iris to lentectomy was compared between young and old axolotl larvae that differed in regeneration competence.

Practical Implications

Understanding Age-Related Regeneration Decline

Provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the loss of regenerative ability with age.

Potential Therapeutic Targets

Identifies potential targets for therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing regeneration in older individuals.

Comparative Regeneration Studies

Establishes the axolotl as a valuable model for comparative studies of regeneration across different species and developmental stages.

Study Limitations

1
The study used only three replicate Affymetrix GeneChips per treatment.
2
The study design could better resolve age-related changes in gene expression that are quantitative in nature.
3
Disentangling the effects of local and peripheral factors on regenerative capacity can be tested by grafting young iris cells into regeneration incompetent older eyes, or by moderating the immune re- sponse of older axolotls

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Regenerative Medicine