Effects of Ivermectin exposure on regeneration of D. dorotocephala planaria

Abstract

The ability of cells to communicate is essential during pattern formation, as they make decisions that drive growth and form. One mode of cellular signaling is via bioelectrical properties determined by the activity of ion channels. Several studies have shown a role for bioelectric signaling in planarian regeneration, but these have focused on D. japonica and S. mediterranea. It is not known how the alterations of ion channel activity would affect regeneration in other species of planaria. Here, we tested the effect of ivermectin (IVM), a chloride channel opener drug commonly used to combat heart worms, on regeneration in a new species of planaria: D. dorotocephala. Exposure to IVM during regeneration resulted in patterning abnormalities, such as bifurcated tails with partial heads, as well as delayed regeneration. By testing the effect of drugs that target resting potential on regenerative repair in novel model species, additional insight is gained on the comparative roles of ionic signaling across taxa.