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A Histological Comparison of Ear Skin Regeneration in Acomys and Mus
Author(s) -
Sandoval Aaron,
Brant Jason,
Maden Malcolm
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.31.1_supplement.lb683
Subject(s) - regeneration (biology) , biology , anatomy , cartilage , pathology , microbiology and biotechnology , medicine
Regeneration has been studied almost exclusively in lower invertebrates as most mammals are only able to regenerate fetal tissue. The African spiny mouse ( Acomys ) represents the first time advanced regeneration has been observed in an adult mammal. Acomys has evolved a defense mechanism which involves fragile skin that tears easily when caught by a predator, allowing the mouse to escape. Subsequently, the mouse regenerates extensive parts of its body. The regenerative capabilities of Acomys are being studied by comparing it to a normal mouse ( Mus ). In order to compare the progression of ear regeneration in Acomys and Mus , ears of both species were wounded using a four‐millimeter punch to remove the epidermal and dermal tissue layers, revealing the underlying cartilage. The healing ears were harvested at 2, 4, 7, 14, 21, and 30 day time points. The ears were subsequently embedded in wax, mounted on slides, and trichrome stained to differentiate between erythrocytes, muscle and collagen. Microscopic analysis revealed that although the cartilaginous layer eventually degenerated in both species, extensive degeneration was present much earlier in Mus . Furthermore, Acomys was able to regenerate its cartilage and hair follicles, whereas Mus was only able to regenerate a disorganized, nonfunctioning mass of collagen. Significant scarring was evident in Mus, while no scarring was observed in Acomys. The results of further study of Acomys could prove integral in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the regenerative process. Findings could ultimately improve the entire healthcare field by allowing for the regeneration of human tissue.