Decision Letter: Selective Amputation of the Pharynx Identifies a FoxA-Dependent Regeneration Program in Planaria

The study by Adler et al. explored the regeneration of the planarian pharynx, focusing on the role of the FoxA gene. Researchers developed a method to chemically amputate the pharynx, allowing for large-scale regeneration assays. They identified 20 genes, out of 356 screened, that were crucial for pharynx regeneration, affecting stem cell function and pharyngeal morphogenesis. The FoxA gene was found to be essential for pharynx regeneration, with its expression linked to specific stem cells. The study provided insights into the genetic basis of organ regeneration in planaria, although some concerns about the interpretation of results, particularly regarding dorsal outgrowths, were addressed in revisions.