A group of Dr. Tagawa (Associate Professor & Director of MBL), Dr. Arimoto (Assistant Professor), and other Japanese and American researchers found that the Ptychodera flava, a worm-like marine organism capable of regenerating its entire head or body, draws on reprogramming-based mechanisms that help somatic cells in higher-order animals branch out into complete body parts. Commonly known as the Acorn Worm, the animal shares evolutionary roots with chordates and mammals that can be traced back from the most advanced vertebrates, including humans. Check here for more information！