Cellular mechanisms of regeneration in holothurians (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea): Spherulocytes role

• Grant number: 08/07189-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: March 01, 2009
• End date: October 31, 2010
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Compared Physiology
• Principal Investigator: Márcio Reis Custódio
• Grantee: Patrícia Lacouth da Silva
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The replacement of tissues and cells is a common feature among metazoans. However, the morphologic and functional degree of recovery is variable, without direct relationship with evolutionary levels. Vertebrates as Danio and Xenopus can show extensive regenerative capabilities, in the same manner that many invertebrates. Among those invertebrates were these mechanisms have been investigated, the echinoderms are one of the best know. In this group, the reposition of organs and tissues can be used not only to repair damaged tissues, but also in a variety of biological processes such as reproduction and defense. Of the five classes comprising the phylum, the holothurians are perhaps those with the most diverse regenerative processes. These organisms can form an entire animal from a fragment containing only part of the anterior body region. A notable phenomena in this group is the evisceration, where part or all internal organs are ejected, followed by its regeneration to a functional state. Recently, there is a growing knowledge about some of the molecules involved in these events. However few organisms were investigated and several details of this process are still unknown. Some studies describe the participation of spherulocytes, a cell type characterized by cytoplasmic inclusions, but its exact function during the process remains disputed with several roles being attributed to them. This project intends to characterize the cellular mechanisms involved in the tissue regeneration in Holothuroidea, trying to define the role of spherulocytes in the process. (AU)

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

SILVA, Patrícia Lacouth da. Cellular and tecidual mechanisms of regeneration in sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea). 2011. Master's Dissertation - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Biociências (IBIOC/SB) São Paulo.