Mechano-sensory organ regeneration in adults: the zebrafish lateral line as a model

Mol Cell Neurosci. 2006 Oct;33(2):180-7. doi: 10.1016/j.mcn.2006.07.005. Epub 2006 Sep 1.

Abstract

In this report, we present a study of regeneration of the lateral line, a collection of mechano-sensory organ, in the adult zebrafish caudal fin. As all neuromasts are innervated by axon fibers, neuronal regeneration is a key issue in the regenerating process. We first show that support cells from the last neuromast adjacent to the amputation plane divide and migrate to colonize the blastema in order to reform the missing part of the lateral line. We then show that nerve re-growth takes place later than neuromast progenitor cell migration. We also provide evidence that new growth cones form at the amputation plane and subsequently follow the migrating placode-like structure to re-innervate regenerated neuromasts as they differentiate. Altogether, our observations indicate that caudal lateral line regeneration is not a mere recapitulation of the ontogenic process.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animal Structures / cytology
  • Animal Structures / innervation
  • Animal Structures / physiology
  • Animals
  • Biomarkers
  • Cell Division / physiology
  • Models, Animal*
  • Nerve Regeneration / physiology*
  • Sensory Receptor Cells / cytology*
  • Sensory Receptor Cells / physiology*
  • Zebrafish / physiology*

Substances

  • Biomarkers