A team of US and Canadian biologists have learned how to regenerate anamputated frog leg. Scientists hope that in the future, their technology will allow humans to recover their lost limbs.
For regeneration, the stump was covered with silicone and spider silk containing hydrogel containing a signaling protein cocktail. It acts on the genetic code, preventing connective tissue from closing wounds and activating repair mechanisms that disappear with age. Tadpoles can grow their limbs perfectly, but adults lack this ability.
In the experiment, 115 frogs were divided into three groups. The first had a cap with a cocktail, the second had an empty cap, and the third had nothing. In 18 months, the amputation site was simply overgrown with the second and third groups of frogs, while the first group of individuals grew full-fledged legs with bones, blood vessels, and nerves. They fully moved and felt touch.
The limbs were slightly smaller than the original ones, and the fingers were not so clearly formed. However, this may be due to the cap being removed too early. It is possible that the paws would have continued to form further.
The human body also has the ability to regenerate in childhood. For example, it can re-grow its fingertips. Biologists believe that their cocktails can be used by humans to recover lost arms and legs.
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