Greenland's Centuries-Old Sharks Could Hold The Secret to Living Longer #Greenlandsharks #longevity

The majestic Greenland shark, an elusive resident of the Arctic and North Atlantic oceans, holds secrets that could potentially unlock new avenues for extending human life. These remarkable sharks, known for their impressive longevity, can live for centuries. In fact, some of these ancient creatures were possibly swimming in the ocean during the time of Abigail Adams, wife of the second US president, who was born in 1744.

Key Highlights:

Incredible Longevity:

Researchers discovered in 2016 that Greenland sharks can live for at least 272 years, with some estimates suggesting they might live up to 400 years.
The reasons behind this extraordinary lifespan are still under investigation, but theories suggest a combination of slow growth and low metabolic rates.
Potential for Human Health:

Scientists believe that understanding the aging process of Greenland sharks could provide insights into extending human life expectancy.
While we may not achieve the 400-year lifespan of these sharks, even an additional decade of healthy living would be a significant breakthrough.
Metabolism Studies:

Ewan Camplisson, a PhD student at the University of Manchester, is studying the sharks' metabolism for clues.
Greenland sharks are known for their slow metabolism, which allows them to survive on minimal food intake. A 493-pound shark, for instance, can sustain itself on just 2 to 6 ounces of food per day.
Research Findings:

Camplisson's research, presented at the Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference, indicates that the metabolic rate of Greenland sharks does not slow with age. This contrasts with most animals, including humans, whose metabolism typically slows down as they age.
The study examined the activity of five metabolic enzymes in preserved Greenland shark muscle tissue, finding no significant variation in enzyme activity in sharks estimated to be between 60 and 200 years old.
Future Implications:

These findings could help researchers understand the biological mechanisms that allow Greenland sharks to maintain their longevity and apply this knowledge to human health.
Further research may reveal how these sharks' bodies prevent the metabolic decline that contributes to aging in other species.
For more detailed insights, read the full article on Science Alert.

#Greenlandsharks #longevity #metabolism #aging #lifespan

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