Abstract
Regeneration in Iberian ribbed newts provides hope for researchers to study the fundamental pathways of elaborate tissue renewal, especially within eye lenses. These newts maintain a rare capability to fully regenerate destroyed body parts including limbs and eye lenses, giving them a reputation as an ideal organism for regenerative studies. Completed in Dr. Sousounis’s lab at the University of New Hampshire, this investigation focuses on the cellular processes of newt lens regeneration, particularly with the impact of Yamanaka factors. Through cellular development observation, along with gene expression and signal pathway analysis, this research aspires to recognize crucial factors that drive lens regeneration mechanisms. The findings from this study could potentially influence regenerative medicine strategies in the future. This is particularly relevant for medical conditions relating to the eye, such as cataracts. Exploring the cellular and signaling aspects of lens regeneration can supply new methods for igniting tissue regeneration in humans. Thus, this research can expand even farther to regenerative therapies for a variety of tissues and organs, improving approaches in the regenerative medicine and tissue engineering fields. Ultimately this can enhance patient outcomes by revealing factors that can promote regeneration in cases where repair mechanisms are otherwise inadequate.
Publication Date
Spring 4-1-2025
Journal Title
Inquiry Journal
Mentor
Konstantinos Sousounis
Publisher
Durham, NH: Hamel Center for Undergraduate Research, University of New Hampshire
Document Type
Research Brief
Recommended Citation
Loporcaro, Jenna, "Seeing Is Believing: Exploring the Mechanisms of Lens Regeneration" (2025). Inquiry Journal. 12.
https://scholars.unh.edu/inquiry_spring_2025/12