Denervation effects on newt limb regeneration: DNA polymerase activity in vitro

DNA polymerase activity in extracts of newt (Triturus viridescens) tissues was assayed in an effort to characterize the effect of nerve resection on the regeneration of amputated limbs. Regenerating limbs display 5-20 times more polymerase activity than nonregenerating limbs. Denervation of partially regenerated limbs, which completely prevents further regeneration in vivo does not, however, affect DNA polymerase activity assayed in vitro. These results suggest that while DNA polymerase activity is responsive to the stimulus of regeneration, denervation effects are probably not directly exerted on this enzyme activity.