Skip to content
Sign In Subscribe
Environment

194-Year-Old Tortoise Jonathan Reveals Genetic Clues To Longevity

Researchers found that chemical markers near 272 of Jonathan’s genes remained well-preserved, resembling patterns seen in much younger tortoises.

,   and  TIPP Staff
2 min read
A 194-year-old tortoise, world's oldest land animal, may hold clues to longer life. Pic via(@ReutersScience)

Scientists have sequenced the genome of Jonathan, a 194-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise, uncovering genetic patterns that may help explain his extraordinary longevity. The findings were published Wednesday in Science Advances.

Believed to have hatched around 1832, Jonathan has lived on the South Atlantic island of St. Helena for 144 years and is recognized as the world’s oldest known land animal.

Researchers found that chemical markers near 272 of Jonathan’s genes remained well-preserved, resembling patterns seen in much younger tortoises. These genes are associated with processes including DNA repair and mitochondrial regulation, potentially offering clues to resistance against age-related decline.

💡
Lead author Stephen Clark said the research aims to explore whether such evolutionary adaptations could eventually inform treatments for chronic diseases and improve understanding of cellular resilience.

However, the study examined only five tortoises, and scientists cautioned that the findings do not prove these genetic patterns directly cause exceptional longevity. Further research will be needed to establish their role in aging.

Related Tweet:

Also Read:

Scientists Identify New Ancient Crocodile Species From Rock Used To Build Great Sphinx
The fossil was discovered in the 1920s but had initially been classified as another crocodilian species.
tippinsightsTIPP Staff

Comments

Related

Latest