Latest revision as of 14:47, 13 January 2026

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of Trichosanthes root extract on the regeneration rate of Dugesia tigrina, a freshwater planarian. Planarians were chosen for their regenerative ability and stem cell systems. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Trichosanthes root was tested for its unexplored regenerative potential. The goal was to evaluate a cost-effective, biologically based method for enhancing tissue regeneration with potential applications in regenerative medicine and wound healing. Planarians were continuously exposed to varying concentrations of the extract, with locomotor activity recorded before and after treatments. Specimens were then transversely amputated into head and tail fragments, which were observed independently. Regenerative outcomes, including body length, eyespot formation, and indicators of nervous system recovery, were measured at regular intervals. Results demonstrated that in trial 1, group D slightly decreased in head length regeneration compared to our control group A. Although group A had the smallest amount of head regeneration over the course of 11 days, there was no significant difference found between the groups in trial 1. Similarly, group C had the least regenerative ability overall over 11 days, but there was still no statistical difference found between the groups. Ultimately, Trichosanthes root was not significantly effective in the regeneration, locomotor activity, and behavior of Dugesia Tirgrina. These findings suggest that even as planarians remain valuable assets in testing biological compounds, Tricosanthes root may not have benefited tissue regeneration as hypothesized.

Document