TLDR High levels of ERK activity are key for tissue regeneration in spiny mice, and activating ERK can potentially redirect scar-forming healing towards regenerative healing in mammals.
The study "An ERK-dependent molecular switch antagonizes fibrosis and promotes regeneration in spiny mice (Acomys)" found that high levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity are crucial for complex tissue regeneration. This was observed in spiny mice, which naturally regenerate skin and complex musculoskeletal tissues. When ERK was inhibited, the mice's tissue regeneration shifted towards fibrotic repair. The study also identified fibroblast growth factor and ErbB signaling as upstream ERK regulators of regeneration. Activating ERK in scar-prone injuries induced a pro-regenerative response, including cell proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and hair follicle neogenesis. This suggests potential ways to redirect fibrotic repair towards regenerative healing in adult mammals.
22 citations,
May 2021 in “Nature Communications” Tissue stiffness affects hair follicle regeneration, and Twist1 is a key regulator.
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August 2020 in “Cell stem cell” Dermal fibroblasts have adjustable roles in wound healing, with specific cells promoting regeneration or scar formation.
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December 2017 in “Developmental Biology” Mammals might fail to regenerate not because they lack the right cells, but because of how cells respond to their surroundings, and changing this environment could enhance regeneration.
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November 2013 in “Development” Keratin 79 marks a new group of cells that are key for creating and repairing the hair follicle's structure.
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September 2012 in “Nature” African spiny mice can regenerate skin, hair, and cartilage, but not muscle, and their unique abilities could be useful for regenerative medicine.
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January 2023 in “International journal of biological sciences” Gray hair can potentially be reversed, leading to new treatments.
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January 2024 in “Signal transduction and targeted therapy” Lymphatic vessels are essential for health and can be targeted to treat various diseases.
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June 2023 in “Cells” Exosomes could be a promising way to help repair skin and treat skin disorders.
