The Regenerative Hydra May be Able to Modify its Genetic Code

The Hydra may actually be able to modify its genetic program. Scientists have found that Hydra, the master of regeneration, can modify their genetic program by overexpressing a series of genes, among which some are involved in diverse nervous functions.

The freshwater Hydra has the amazing power of regeneration. Now, researchers have studied the stem cells functioning and the cellular plasticity of this polyp. The nervous system regulates in particular contraction bursts, feeding behavior, moving and swimming. If the stem cells responsible for its renewal are depleted, though, the Hydra can still develop, even when all its neurons have disappeared.

In this latest study, the researchers compared gene expression at various positions along the body axis in polyps devoid or not of their nervous stem cells. The researchers observed a modification of the genetic program in animals depleted of these cells.

"Epithelial cells do not possess typical neuronal functions," said Wanda Buzgariu, co-first author of the new study, in a news release. "However, Hydra's loss of neurogenesis induces epithelial cells to modify their genetic program accordingly, indicating that they are ready to assume some of these functions. These 'naturally' genetically modified epithelial cells are thus likely to enhance their sensitivity and response to environmental signals, to partially compensate for the lack of nervous system."

Studying Hydra's cellular plasticity may be relevant in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. In fact, some of the genes identified in this animal play an important role in cellular reprogramming or in neurogenesis in mammals.

The findings are published in the journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society.

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