Brittle Stars' Regeneration Secrets: How They Regrow Lost Body Parts

Edited by: Inna Horoshkina One

Scientists have uncovered the mechanism by which brittle stars, resembling slender starfish, regenerate lost body parts. They discovered that the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in this process.

Researchers focused on *Amphiura filiformis*, a brittle star species found in the North Sea and Mediterranean. Their findings revealed that the FGF pathway is essential for both the initial growth and the subsequent regeneration of body parts. Blocking this pathway prevented the brittle stars from rebuilding their skeletons, highlighting its significance.

This research enhances our understanding of brittle stars, particularly in light of the threats they face due to climate change. Warmer, more acidic oceans can impede their regenerative capabilities. Consequently, protecting these creatures and their habitats is vital for their survival.

Sources

  • The Guardian

  • Species overview | Swedish Reference Genome Portal

  • Echinoderms and Climate Change | Shape of Life

  • FGF signalling plays similar roles in development and regeneration of the skeleton in the brittle star Amphiura filiformis | Development

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