Name: Ceallagh Hanlon
Source: Live Science:
Date: 1/5/15
Author: Becky Oskin
Summary:
Recently, scientists have been looking at the genomes of whales for clues pertaining to their long life spans. Specifically, mutations in the genome of the bowhead whale offer interesting data. Scientists have found that these whales live for around 200 years due to beneficial mutations. For example, bowhead whales have a gene called ERCC1. Researchers have found that a mutation (the specific type is unclear) in this gene helps repair damaged DNA. This could conceivably protect against cancer by stopping cancerous cells from replicating too quickly. Other mutations that contribute to the long life span of whales include a duplication in a gene linked with DNA replication and cell growth called PCNA. Scientists think the duplication of part of this gene could slow aging and lead to longer life spans. In addition to investigating the effects of these mutations on live spans, scientists also looked at the way the whales genes are expressed in their major organs such as the liver, brain, and heart. Researchers have been able to study the genomes of whales by using the tissue of whales killed by whalers in Alaska and Greenland.
Biologist Joao Pedro de Magalhaes, who is also an expert in aging science, plans to investigate these mutations further. He hopes that these whales may provide the key to prolonging the length of a human life, perhaps by genetic modification.
Relevance:
Our study of molecular genetics is closely related to this article. We learned about different types of mutations, specifically relating to genes and on the chromosomal level, and the possible effects they have on the organism. This study investigates the effects of genetic mutations like duplications, particularly the positive effects they have on the organism. Additionally, this study can relate to our study of evolution. These whales have evolved to have longer life spans which suggests that these mutations are inherited. Because bowhead whales live an average of 200 years, it is evident that the mutations occur frequently in the gene pool.
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ReplyDeleteDo other organisms also have the gene called ERCC1 with the mutation as well? if yes, then which?
ReplyDeleteIt seems to be a relatively common gene, but the specific mutation that could prevent cancer is unique to whales. In fact, a disruption of this gene in mice results in a shortened life span.
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