Thursday, July 7, 2011

The Naked Mole Rat's DNA Defense Against Cancer

In the Science Daily news, there is a new discovery in revealing special characteristics within naked mole rats that allow them to stay healthy, and live longer then many other animals, without becoming sick.

(http://www.naked-mole-rat.org/)

Naked mole rats have fought through evolutionary changes and harsh environments. However, researchers have found that these rats never have health problems as they age, which results in being able to live without having infectious diseases. In this study, scientists are looking very closely at the sequencing of the rats’ DNA and the genes associated with protecting against these aging diseases. The article states, “recent studies have suggested that its cells possess anti-tumour capabilities that are not present in other rodents or in humans”. Naked mole rats are now an important subject to try and help one understand what could help aid in protecting against diseases in other species.

This new discovery can lead to possible new treatments within the study of diseases. It is an astonishing discovery that an animal that we do not see very often would posses such an important feature. Naked mole rats have found a way to live longer, and fight off cancer. If it is possible in the near future, this DNA sequencing may help aid in fighting off diseases in other animals and humans, or at least start to give us an understanding of what can help.

1 comment:

  1. Naked Mole Rat is the way to go. Since this study suggests that the genes in this kind of rodent may be compatible to that of humans and could cure certain diseases or even prevent these diseases. I wish them success with this knd of experiment.

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