How the zebra fish heals itself
The research team discovered the role of a protein (fgf) in the remarkable self-healing ability of the fish. Image: Marrabbio2, Wikimedia Commons Scientists have unlocked the secrets of the zebra fish’s ability to heal its spinal cord after injury, in research that could deliver therapy for paraplegics and quadriplegics in the future.A team from Monash University’s Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), led by Dr Yona Goldshmit and Professor Peter Currie, discovered the role of a protein in the remarkable self-healing ability of the fish.The findings, detailed in The Journal of Neuroscience, could eventually lead to ways to stimulate spinal cord regeneration in humans.When the spinal cord is severed in humans and other mammals, the immune system kicks in, activating specialised cells called glia to prevent bleeding into it, Professor Currie said.“Glia are the workmen of nervous system. The glia proliferate, forming bigger cells that span the wound site in order to prevent...