From development to regeneration: The spiny mouse as a model in neurobiology

The African spiny mouse ( Acomys dimidiatus ) is a unique mammalian model capable of scarless tissue regeneration, extending to the nervous system. Unlike conventional rodents, Acomys show significantly higher levels of adult brain stem cells, enhanced functional plasticity after brain injury, and the ability to regenerate and regain function following severe spinal cord damage. While the regenerative capacity of the Acomys central nervous system (CNS) is only beginning to be explored, existing studies have already challenged the long-standing dogma that adult mammals are incapable of CNS recovery after injury. This review provides a critical overview on the current knowledge of Acomys nervous system biology, from development to repair. We summarize the known cellular and mechanistic insights and highlight the current outstanding questions and research priorities. Understanding how Acomys achieves CNS functional recovery, an ability unmatched by any other known mammal, may ultimately guide strategies to enhance repair in nonregenerative mammals, including humans. • Acomys displays a distinctive, precocial pattern of brain development. • Adult Acomys brains retain an unusually large neural stem cell pool. • Acomys is the first known mammal that spontaneously regenerates the spinal cord. • Functional recovery after stroke in Acomys relies on plasticity and not regeneration. • Regenerative capacity in Acomys does not inherently confer neuroprotection.