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Updated: Mar 24, 2026
Generation of Chimeric Axolotls with Mutant Haploid Limbs Through Embryonic Grafting
Published on: January 29, 2020
MARCKS-like protein is an initiating molecule in axolotl appendage regeneration
Takuji Sugiura1,2, Heng Wang3, Rico Barsacchi2
1DFG Research Center for Regenerative Therapies (CRTD), Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
Abstract:
Identifying key molecules that launch regeneration has been a long-sought goal. Multiple regenerative animals show an initial wound-associated proliferative response that transits into sustained proliferation if a considerable portion of the body part has been removed. In the axolotl, appendage amputation initiates a round of wound-associated cell cycle induction followed by continued proliferation that is dependent on nerve-derived signals. A wound-associated molecule that triggers the initial proliferative response to launch regeneration has remained obscure. Here, using an expression cloning strategy followed by in vivo gain- and loss-of-function assays, we identified axolotl MARCKS-like protein (MLP) as an extracellularly released factor that induces the initial cell cycle response during axolotl appendage regeneration. The identification of a regeneration-initiating molecule opens the possibility of understanding how to elicit regeneration in other animals.
Insights
Scientists identified axolotl MARCKS-like protein (MLP) as a key molecule initiating appendage regeneration. This extracellular factor triggers the initial cell cycle response, advancing our understanding of regenerative processes.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative biology
- Molecular biology
- Developmental biology
Background:
- Regeneration requires precise molecular signaling to initiate cellular proliferation.
- While nerve signals are known to support sustained regeneration in axolotls, the initial trigger molecule remained unidentified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the wound-associated molecule responsible for initiating the proliferative response in axolotl appendage regeneration.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an expression cloning strategy to screen for candidate molecules.
- Performed in vivo gain- and loss-of-function assays to validate the function of the identified molecule.
Main Results:
- Identified axolotl MARCKS-like protein (MLP) as an extracellularly released factor.
- Demonstrated that MLP induces the initial cell cycle response crucial for launching regeneration.
Conclusions:
- Axolotl MARCKS-like protein (MLP) is a key initiator of appendage regeneration.
- This discovery provides a molecular target for understanding and potentially eliciting regeneration in other species.
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