Evocation of regrowth phenomena in anuran limbs by electrical stimulation of the nerve supply

Experiments reveal that growth reactions may be evoked in amputated forelimbs of fully adult Rana pipiens and R. catesbiana by electrical stimulation of the normal limb nerve supply. The evoked growths were generally small cones, 5–10 mm in length; none developed into limbs of normal size and morphology, but some formed digits and cartilage and developed striated muscle. The combined influences of trauma, effected by salt treatment, and electrical stimulation of the nerve produced more growths than trauma or stimulation alone.