Scientists at Stanford University have discovered that the extracellular matrix (ECM), a non-cellular structure that surrounds cells in tissues, can enable regeneration of fingertips, skin, bone, and nerves. The research suggests that regeneration relies on a balance between the ECM and hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule. The researchers used mice to study the regenerative ability of distal (near the finger tip) and proximal (almost the knuckle) amputation. They found that nonregenerative regions contained dense, organized collagen, while regenerative regions were soft and enriched in hyalurable acid. The study suggests that this shift in perspective could provide a promising toolkit for regenerative medicine and treatment of disease.