Throughout the history of experimental biology, certain organisms have repeatedly attracted the attention of each new generation of researchers. These "fascinating" animals are unique because they point out the potential of biological processes as they apply to humans. Urodele amphibians are members of this group because they alone among the vertebrates are able to regenerate lost body parts as adults. They are a constant reminder that regeneration is an ancient and  fundamental biological process, and they challenge our creative and scientific abilities to discover how to unlock the regenerative potential within us.

The page is being updated to include a summary of recent advances in regeneration research. Please check back in the near future.
 

For a time-lapse movie of regeneration in the axolotl front leg click here.
 
 

From: Iten and Bryant (1973)W.Roux'Arch. 173, 263-282