长期以来，利用再生生物学的力量一直是医学界的梦想，因为它具有修复因损伤或疾病而丢失的结构的明显潜力。 然而，自然界的再生仅限于特定的组织和有机体。 保罗·汉密尔顿的研究兴趣集中在解决一个基本问题，即为什么特定生物体中的特定组织具有再生能力，而许多组织则没有。 Using one of the few models for vertebrate regeneration, the frog 非洲爪蟾蜍光滑的, his goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms of regeneration already established by evolution. The larvae (i.e. tadpoles) of X。 光滑的 exhibit remarkable regenerative potential, and are capable of regenerating numerous tissues, including tail, limb, and lens. Through a combination of developmental and molecular approaches in X。 光滑的, Dr. Hamilton works with students to examine the regenerative potential of tissue while working to unravel the molecular mechanisms that allow for regeneration to occur.