Epigenetics and Shared Molecular Processes in the Regeneration of Complex Structures

Figure 1

Phylogenetic distribution of regenerative organisms. Regenerative abilities tend to decline as complexity increases through evolution. For instance, Hydra and planarians can regenerate their whole bodies, whereas regeneration in deer or African spiny mice is limited to certain parts of their body such as antlers or skin, respectably. The following representatives from different phyla are illustrated: plants, Stentor (Ciliophora), Hydra (Cnidaria), planarian (Platyhelminthes), crayfish (Crustacea), starfish (Echinodermata), lamprey, fish, axolotl, and newt (Urodela), as well as deer and spiny mouse (Mammalia). Phylogenetic distances and organisms are not drawn to scale. Illustration contributed by Chihiro Uchiyama Tasaki.