"This study introduces the possibility of carrying out systematic gene function studies in an organism that traditionally has not been accessible to genetics," said Sánchez Alvarado. "The importance of this advance lies in the biological attributes displayed by planarians -- that is, abundant adult stem cells responsible for the extensive and robust regeneration of amputated parts, as well as the continuous renewal of differentiated tissues (tissue homeostasis)."
It's too soon to tell whether research into planarian worms might one day let doctors regrow amputated limbs or diseased organs in people. Nevertheless, since many of the genes found in flatworms are also present in humans, scientists believe they may provide insights into how to use adult stem cells to replace diseased or damaged human tissue."
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