Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a groundbreaking mechanism that allows sea stars, commonly known as starfish, to survive predatory attacks by shedding their own limbs. Autotomy, the ability of an animal to detach a body part to evade predators, is a well-known survival strategy in the animal kingdom, but the specific mechanisms behind this process have remained largely mysterious. By studying the common European starfish, Asterias rubens, researchers have identified a neurohormone that triggers the detachment of the starfish’s arms when under stress, such as during a predator attack.
The neurohormone identified by the researchers is similar to the human satiety hormone, cholecystokinin (CCK), and is responsible for stimulating the contraction of a specialized muscle at the base of the starfish’s arm, causing it to break off. This remarkable ability allows starfish to escape from predators and survive in their natural environment. Additionally, starfish possess incredible regenerative abilities, allowing them to grow back lost limbs over time. Understanding the precise mechanisms behind this process could have significant implications for regenerative medicine and the development of new treatments for limb injuries.
Dr. Ana Tinoco, a member of the research group who led the study and is now at the University of Cadiz in Spain, emphasized the complexity of the interplay between neurohormones and tissues involved in starfish autotomy. While the researchers have identified a key player in this process, they believe that other factors may also contribute to the starfish’s extraordinary ability to self-amputate. Professor Maurice Elphick, who led the study, highlighted the broader significance of the research, stating that it not only unveils a fascinating aspect of starfish biology but also opens doors for exploring the regenerative potential of other animals, including humans.
By deciphering the secrets of starfish self-amputation, researchers hope to advance our understanding of tissue regeneration and develop innovative therapies for limb injuries. The study, published in the journal Current Biology, was funded by the BBSRC and Leverhulme Trust. This research sheds light on a previously unknown aspect of starfish biology and could lead to new discoveries in the field of regenerative medicine. The findings could pave the way for advancements in tissue regeneration and the development of novel treatments for injuries involving limb loss.
Overall, this groundbreaking study has revealed the complex mechanisms behind starfish autotomy and shed light on the potential for regenerative medicine. Through further research, scientists hope to uncover additional factors that contribute to the starfish’s ability to self-amputate and regenerate lost limbs. By understanding the intricate interplay of neurohormones and tissues involved in this process, researchers aim to develop innovative therapies for limb injuries and further explore the regenerative potential of other animals, including humans.