Why in news
Zebrafish possess remarkable regenerative abilities, They can fully heal a severed spinal cord.
Researchers have developed a comprehensive map of all cell types involved in spinal cord regeneration in zebrafish.
The survival and adaptability of damaged neurons are essential for complete spinal cord repair.
Stem cells capable of forming new neurons — and typically thought of as central to regeneration — only play a complementary role but do not lead the process.
Implications:
Understanding the zebrafish model could provide insights into developing therapies for spinal cord injuries in humans.
Identifying the specific mechanisms by which neurons survive and adapt may lead to novel treatment approaches.
The findings suggest that focusing solely on stem cells for spinal cord repair might not be sufficient.
Basic Information
Freshwater fish belonging to the minnow family (Cyprinidae)
Native to India and South Asia
Commonly kept as an aquarium fish, often known as zebra danio.
Scientific Importance
Widely used in scientific research.
Research areas: Developmental biology, genetics, oncology, teratology, drug development.
Regenerative abilities: Capable of healing severed spinal cords.
COMMENTS