Are axolotls resistant to cancer? Possible explanations

Native to the lakes and wetlands of southern Mexico, the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a neotenic salamander widely recognized for its remarkable regenerative capacity. Beyond regeneration, increasing attention has been directed toward the possibility that axolotls may exhibit reduced susceptibility to cancer, highlighting their potential value as a model for investigating mechanisms related to tumor suppression. This review provides an updated overview of the molecular and physiological characteristics that may contribute to this phenomenon. Key features include their permanent larval state, high cellular plasticity, and tightly regulated cell proliferation during regeneration, all of which could influence processes associated with malignant transformation. Additional factors discussed include their low metabolic rate, reduced thyroid hormone levels, altered insulin sensitivity, the presence of naturally occurring bioactive compounds with potential antitumor properties, distinctive genomic and epigenetic features, and a robust innate immune response. Particular emphasis is placed on how these biological traits may intersect with processes linked to the hallmarks of cancer. Although current evidence remains limited and predominantly indirect, the study of these characteristics not only advances our understanding of axolotl biology but may also offer insights relevant to future cancer research and therapeutic development.