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Home / Equine Research Bank / Organogenesis / A concise review of common animal models for the study of li...
Organogenesis2016; 12(3); 109-118; doi: 10.1080/15476278.2016.1205775

A concise review of common animal models for the study of limb regeneration.

Abstract: Correct selection of an appropriate animal mode to closely mimic human extremity diseases or to exhibit desirable phenotypes of limb regeneration is the first critical step for all scientists in biomedical and regenerative researches. The commonly-used animals in limb regeneration and repairing studies, such as axolotl, mice, and rats, are discussed in the review and other models including cockroaches, dogs, and horses are also mentioned. The review weighs the general advantages, disadvantages, and precedent uses of each model in the context of limb and peripheral injury and subsequent regeneration. We hope that this review can provide the reader an overview of each model, from which to select one for their specific purpose.
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Publication Date: 2016-07-08 PubMed ID: 27391218PubMed Central: PMC4993303DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2016.1205775Google Scholar: Lookup
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  • Review
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  • Non-U.S. Gov't

Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

The research article reviews various animal models commonly used in the study of limb regeneration and how they might offer insights into similar processes in humans.

Importance of Selecting an Appropriate Animal Model

  • The selection of an appropriate animal model is vital for scientists involved in biomedical and regenerative research. This model should ideally mimic human diseases of the extremities or display desirable limb regeneration characteristics. The choice of the model is essential in understanding the processes and mechanisms involved in limb regeneration and repair.

Commonly Used Animal Models

  • The review discusses several animal models often used in the study of limb regeneration, including the axolotl, mice, and rats. These animals have demonstrated a considerable ability to regrow limbs, tail, heart, and spinal cord after injury.
  • Axolotls, in particular, are remarkable for their unlimited capacity to regenerate. Mice and rats, although not as prolific as axolotls, provide significant insights due to their genetic similarity to humans.

Other Animal Models

  • Other models discussed include cockroaches, dogs, and horses. While these are not as typically used, they offer valuable insights into limb regeneration and repair. For instance, cockroaches can regenerate their antennae, while certain dog breeds have shown an ability to regrow skin and fur.

Evaluating Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Model

  • The review assesses the general advantages, disadvantages, and previous uses of each animal model. The choice of a model depends on the specific research question, available resources, and ethical considerations.
  • The review provides a comprehensive overview of each model, allowing readers to select the most suitable option for their particular research needs.

Cite This Article

APA
Farah Z, Fan H, Liu Z, He JQ. (2016). A concise review of common animal models for the study of limb regeneration. Organogenesis, 12(3), 109-118. https://doi.org/10.1080/15476278.2016.1205775

Publication

Organogenesis
ISSN: 1555-8592
NlmUniqueID: 101253266
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 12
Issue: 3
Pages: 109-118

Researcher Affiliations

Farah, Zayd
  • a Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology , Center for Veterinary Regenerative Medicine (CVRM), Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech , Blacksburg , VA , USA.
Fan, Huimin
  • b Research Institute of Heart Failure , Shanghai East Hospital of Tongji University , Shanghai , China.
Liu, Zhongmin
  • b Research Institute of Heart Failure , Shanghai East Hospital of Tongji University , Shanghai , China.
He, Jia-Qiang
  • a Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology , Center for Veterinary Regenerative Medicine (CVRM), Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech , Blacksburg , VA , USA.

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Extremities / physiology
  • Mammals / physiology
  • Models, Animal
  • Regeneration / physiology
  • Urodela / physiology

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Citations

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