Genome Report: Chromosome-Scale Genome Assembly of the African Spiny Mouse (Acomys Cahirinus)

The study provides a detailed chromosome-scale genome assembly of the African spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus), known for its exceptional regenerative abilities. Using long Nanopore sequencing reads, the researchers achieved a highly contiguous genome with 98.5% gene content completeness. This assembly, validated with RNA sequencing from four tissues, will help explore the molecular basis of the spiny mouse's regenerative properties, such as scarless healing and organ regeneration. Comparative analysis with the mouse reference genome (M. musculus) revealed significant differences in reproductive development genes and identified 126 unique genes in A. cahirinus, highlighting its potential as a model for regenerative studies. The findings could inform regenerative medicine and the reversal of nonregenerative traits in other mammals.