Regulating the biological mechanisms behind faster healing can result in the reduction of negative outcomes such as scarring, infection or amputation. Although the mechanisms behind normal healing have been uncovered, we still struggle to find effective ways to speed up the process. Some species show remarkable healing capacities, such as the Cnidarians (jellyfish, sea anemones and hydrozoans). Partial tissue loss through predation occurs frequently in the wild and explains their proficiency in tissue regeneration. Delineating the mechanisms behind this trait could potentially hold promise for uncovering novel effective treatments leading to improved wound healing in humans.
In this project, we will measure the molecular responses of beadlet anemones (Actinia equina) as a first step toward providing insight into tissue regeneration and ultimately advancing the field of wound healing.