Blastema induction in aneurogenic state and Prrx-1 regulation by MMPs and FGFs in Ambystoma mexicanum limb regeneration

► Fgf-signaling components and MMP genes are activated in blastemasin ALM. ► Fgf signaling is necessary to maintain blastema but not to activate blastemal genes. ► Collagenase (MMP1) treatment promoted Prrx-1(blastema marker gene). ► Phos-FAK and β3 integrinare correlated with ECM degradation and regulate Prrx-1. ► Activation of Fgf signaling and MMPs result in an induction of a blastema-like structure without the presence of a nerve.