Genetically Altered Squid May Pave the Way to New Research Methods

Image shows normal coloration/pigmentation in squid on the left and genetically altered squid on the right 

 Cephalopods have been studied extensively in the field of neurobiology. When conducting research, scientists always have had trouble figuring out the genetics to many unique traits that cephalopods have. Specifically, their ability to change color and texture of their skin as well as their intellectual level. Not being able to see the genomic structure of some of these processes have left scientists stumped. In this article, they talk about how scientists were finally able to alter the gene for coloration in squid. After figuring out how to accurately inject genetic information to developing embryos, scientists were able to alter the coloration in newly developed squid. By being able to do this, they are finally able to start understanding cephalopods at a genetic level. This is extremely important in the neurobiological field as cephalopods are studied extensively for their unique traits. This allows scientists to understand the processes as a whole as well as being able to further enhance studied to grasp a better understanding as to how and why these processes occur. 

    Cephalopods have always been interesting to me and I love reading about them in my own time. Seeing that scientists have been able to finally open the world of genetics into cephalopods is truly an exciting time. These creatures have a complex world of their own, which is highly studied especially on a neurological standpoint. Their intelligence levels are remarkable and their ability to also change color and texture of their skin is so unique. To be able to finally see these traits in a genetic level will help with research in many ways. Understanding their cognition and neural function on a genetic level may be able to help with projects in the neuroscience and medical fields. 

Link to the article

Link to supporting articles: NPR article