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In many regions, apple snails are seen as invasive species and pests. However, scientists are researching a freshwater species, the golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata), for its unique ability to regenerate a lost eye. Researchers hope to learn from the eyes of golden apple snails something that could potentially help preserve human vision.

Apple snails have eyes that function like cameras, similar to human eyes. A golden apple snail's eye can heal itself if it is damaged. If the eye is completely removed, a new one will grow back within a month. Naturally, human eyes cannot do that. Researchers studying the eyes of golden apple snails aim to find new ways to treat human eye injuries or diseases like macular degeneration.

By using the gene editing tool CRISPR/Cas9 to disable specific genes, scientists are hunting for the genes responsible for the snail’s remarkable eye regeneration. Disabling the snails' PAX6 gene prevented them from developing eyes, and that same gene is essential for human eye development. Given the similarity, further research could lead to breakthroughs in treating eye diseases.

Humans cannot regrow damaged parts of the eye, and doctors have yet to perform an eye transplant that communicates with the brain. God has given humans curiosity and intelligence to explore the mysteries of life. In the eyes of golden apple snails, he has provided us with a model to study and possibly learn how to restore lost or damaged vision.

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