In class, we are currently studying Phylum Echinodermata--sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, sand dollars, etc. Echinoderms have several purposes within their specific ecosystems; however, why are they such a hot topic in science, especially in the medical field? The answer lies in their extraordinary ability to regenerate lost or damaged limbs, a feat attributed to catch connective tissue. This white, fiber-like connective tissue is unique to enchinoderms, and the sea cucumber has proven to be especially easy in to observe this feature as it lacks an endoskeleton. Check out the article below on how scientists are hypothesizing sea cucumbers could work miracles in the feature for people with tendon injuries.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1134/is_9_112/ai_110737006/
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