Effects of concanavalin A on limb regeneration in the axolotlAmbystoma mexicanum

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects, if any, of concanavalin A (Con A) on the process of pattern formation during limb regeneration in the axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum. Con A was administered to regenerating axolotl forelimbs in a Hydron disk that released the Con A slowly over a period of time. The results indicate that Con A is teratogenic to the regenerating axolotl limb, causing reductions in the number, size, and quality of skeletal elements present, with increasing reductions and malformations as the dose is increased. Low doses resulted in a reduction in the number of carpals or phalanges. Higher doses resulted in more drastic malformations, including the absence of digits. The implications of this teratogenic effect of Con A on limb regeneration are discussed in the context of the possible mechanisms of pattern formation.