Why can’t people regenerate limbs like salamanders?

Understanding how certain animals can regenerate entire organs and limbs could help heal injuries in people.

By: Junsu Kang, University of Wisconsin-Madison, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 5, 2026

Words: 1,037

Last Updated: 1 week, 4 days ago

By Junsu Kang, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

Why can some organisms (like planaria or salamanders) regenerate limbs, while others cannot? – Anna, age 12, Kansas City, Missouri

Imagine losing an arm and simply growing a new one. This amazing ability of regeneration isn’t just something from a …

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