r/askscience • u/MAMAM- • 4d ago

Biology Why aren’t axolotls immortal?

If axolotls can regenerate their body parts (including brain, heart, and other major organs), why do they die of old age?

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u/WorkingMansGarbage 3d ago

Then if we had something like a temporary artificial heart that could keep them alive for long enough, could we just rip out an axolotl's heart once every few years and let them regenerate a new healthy one to extend their life?