Spiny Mice (Acomys) Have Evolved Cellular Features to Support Regenerative Healing

    Robyn S. Allen, Ashley W. Seifert
    TLDR Spiny mice can regenerate tissues instead of forming scars.
    Spiny mice (Acomys spp.) exhibit remarkable regenerative healing abilities, which are supported by unique cellular and physiological adaptations. Unlike closely related mammals that form scars, Acomys can fully regenerate excised tissues by deploying altered injury response mechanisms. This review highlights how these rodents maintain cell cycle progression and express embryonic features in adults to enhance tissue repair. Specific cell types in Acomys show regulated proliferation, diverging from typical scar-forming activation profiles. The evidence suggests that Acomys sustain pro-regenerative pathways while temporarily activating fibrotic pathways, offering insights into potential regenerative therapies.
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