Could be, but then it wouldn't be a genetic defect technically. If we are to believe the title, then it's probably either a HOX gene mutation or a messed up signaling pathway. You'd be surprised how easy it is to make an embryo grow extra limbs
Yes. Most embryos are essentially the same regardless of species, and early in the cell growth process can be very easily manipulated. I'm a layperson, but I believe this is one of the reason stem cells are so important in medicine. But I would love to be corrected/informed if I'm mistaken.
216
u/Anim8nFool 29d ago
Look at the back feet -- they're backwards -- poor little guy is probably in pain with every step.