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Generation of Chimeric Axolotls with Mutant Haploid Limbs Through Embryonic Grafting
Published on: January 29, 2020
Mystery unsolved: missing limbs in deformed amphibians.
David K Skelly1, Michael F Benard
1School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA. david.skelly@yale.edu
Summary
Predatory attacks by small predators like dragonfly larvae may not fully explain amphibian limb deformities. Further research is needed to understand the causes of these common developmental abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Developmental Biology
- Herpetology
Background:
- Amphibian limb deformities, particularly missing limbs, are a common phenomenon in natural populations.
- Previous research suggested that predatory attacks by small predators, such as Sympetrum dragonfly larvae, could fully explain these deformities.
- Ribeiroia infection has also been proposed as a mechanism for amphibian limb deformities.
Discussion:
- The claim that predatory attacks alone sufficiently explain amphibian limb deformities lacks robust quantitative analysis.
- Observed frequencies of missing hind limbs are often low, even when potential predators like Sympetrum are abundant.
- This suggests that predation may be a contributing factor but not the sole or sufficient cause.
Key Insights:
- The proposed link between Sympetrum predation and amphibian limb deformities requires more rigorous quantitative evidence.
- Amphibian limb deformities are complex, and multiple etiological factors likely contribute.
- Current evidence does not support concluding predation as the definitive cause for the most common limb deformities.
Outlook:
- Further studies are necessary to quantitatively assess the role of predation in amphibian limb deformities.
- Investigating other potential mechanisms, alongside predation, is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.
- It is premature to establish definitive conclusions on the causes of common amphibian limb deformities.
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01:09Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
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Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
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In 1882, Flemming observed lampbrush chromosomes (LBC) in salamander eggs. Later in 1892, Rückert observed LBCs in shark egg cells and coined the term "lampbrush chromosomes" because they looked like brushes used to clean kerosene lamps.
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