Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Squids Can Change Their Genes - And Maybe Ours One Day, Too



A recent study done by Dr. Eli Eisenberg at Tel Aviv University has come to the conclusion that the longfin inshore squid is capable of modifying its own genome sequence. While RNA is known to, typically, transcribe the gene sequence of an organisms DNA without purposeful deviation, some animals have been observed changing the individual nucleotides on the transcribed RNA. More frequently, members of the cephalopod group, including the octopus and squid, have been using this technique of altering their RNA in response to temperature changes and environmental needs. The study discussed in the popular science article focused on the longfin inshore squid, and found that 60% of the transcribed RNA sequences were purposefully edited. Because squids – and other cephalopods – have such complex nervous systems, researchers are theorizing that these changes are a way for the squids to adapt more easily to environmental changes. In fact, in light of the damages inflicted by humans on the climate and especially in the ocean, squids appear to be doing well  , especially compared to the declining numbers of other marine species. Its possible, even likely, that the ability to alter its RNA is what’s allowing the squid to adapt to and survive in the increasing strain of the environment. Beyond just the impressive skills of the squid, this finding bears implications in the human world. Because some pretty serious human diseases are results of issues in RNA transcription, the ability to selectively edit RNA sequences could come in handy. Research is starting on how this discovery can be used to make humans just as hardy as our aquatic friends. 

1 comment:

  1. It's certainly interesting to think that the squid's ability to alter it's RNA may allow it to adapt and more successfully survive under current environmental strains. I would like to see how future research on this topic could help human health issues.

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