The MDI Biological Laboratory (MDIBL) is one of Maine’s hidden gems. This small institution, tucked away on the northern tip of Mount Desert Island, has had a major impact on our understanding of biology and human health. Recently appointed President Hermann Haller is leading the search for answers to some of the most pressing biological questions of our time.

Dr. Haller and his team are asking:

• Can we slow the onset of degenerative disease and extend healthy lifespan?
• Can we enhance our natural ability to heal, making it possible to repair the damage caused by injury or disease?
• Is it possible to grow new organs using a patient’s own stem cells?

For nearly 125 years the MDI Biological Laboratory has pushed the boundaries of scientific research by developing new approaches to treat disease and improve the health of those living in Maine and around the world. In fact, many of the scientific techniques, diagnostic tools and medical therapies routinely used today to identify and treat kidney disease, high blood pressure and cancer were initially studied and developed at MDIBL.

“Our scientists are working on cutting edge solutions that will one day allow us the ability to regrow and repair organs, limbs, tissues. We learned this by studying animals such as the zebrafish and axolotl (Mexican salamander) to understand the basic mechanisms involved in regeneration and repair,” said Hermann Haller, M.D., president of the MDI Biological Laboratory. Although the idea of regrowing a new kidney or a missing limb may have seemed like science fiction 20 years ago, today this approach is within our grasp. That is such exciting news for Maine and the rest of the world.”

Axolotls (shown above) can regenerate almost any body part, including their limbs, brain, and heart, and are important animal models to our research. Over the coming months, MDIBL will be sharing more news about new and exciting discoveries underway on its Bar Harbor campus. Sign up for our monthly updates at mdibl.org/stay-informed.