Prosthetic Conscience

Miracle Mouse

The Times of London is reporting ‘Miracle mouse’ can grow back lost limbs. But it’s not just lost limbs, it’s damaged organs, severed optical nerves; anything but the brain. If this is true, it is very big news, for two reasons. First, the genes that are altered that control regeneration in these mice are almost certainly also present in humans, which could lead to gene therapies to provide regeneration to humans. Secondly, when cells from these mice were injected into ordinary mice, the recipients gained the power of regeneration for up to six months; this could also be extended to humans (via an injection of modified human cells).

The modified mice may also have increased lifespans, but it is too early to tell (they are 18 months old, and this breed of mouse normally lives for 2 years).

Given that the brain does not regrow, I was tempted to post this in zombies, but if this is true, it’s too important to take flippantly.

[ Posted: 11:34] | [ Category: ] | Permalink | Comments: 0 ]