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| Photo from www.arkive.org |
The bowhead whale, Balaena mysticetus, inhabits the arctic region and can
live for more than 200 years with free or low incidence of old-age illness [1,
2, 3]. The species can reach up to 18 meters and is known to be the second
heaviest whale after the blue whale [2]. Recently, scientists revealed the
mystery of its long lifespan and vitality.
Mapping the bowhead whale’s genome, researchers discovered
distinct genetic properties that influence DNA repair, cell growth, cell cycle, and ageing process [1, 2, 3]. Genes
responsible for its immunity and metabolic processes were also discovered to be
different compared to other animals [1, 2, 3].
Given the high number of cells of these animals, of over 1, 000 times than
humans, bodies of bowheads are still more efficient in suppressing tumour cells
because of their genetic composition [2, 3]. Scientists are now hoping that this
knowledge in the genome of bowhead whales can be applied in hopes of improving
human health and quality of life.
To know more about the bowhead whale, visit SeaLifeBase.
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[1] Old whales-good genes. http://www.dw.de/old-whales-good-genes/a-18177578
[Accessed 20 January 2015].
[2] How to age gracefully? Ask a bowhead whale. http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20150108/environment/How-to-age-gracefully-Ask-a-bowhead-whale.551047
[Accessed 20 January 2015].
[3] Genome mapped for bowhead whale, which can live 200
years. http://thespeaker.co/genome-mapped-bowhead-whale-can-live-200-years/
[Accessed 20 January 2015].
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