The replacement or restoration of a lost body part or structure using the organism's own tissues or regenerative abilities, rather than artificial materials.
From auto- (self) + prothesis (a replacement or addition). This medical term refers to natural tissue regeneration as opposed to artificial prosthetics.
Salamanders and some lizards practice autoprothesis by regrowing lost tails and limbs—they have a genetic program we're only beginning to understand that could revolutionize regenerative medicine if we crack it.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.