A recent study presented at the Society for Experimental Biology conference in Prague has revealed that muscle metabolic activity may be the key to the longevity of Greenland sharks, the oldest living vertebrate species. The research conducted by PhD student Ewan Camplisson from the University of Manchester found that the sharks’ metabolism does not decrease with age, unlike other animals. In fact, their metabolic enzymes were found to be more active at higher temperatures, suggesting that they are not specifically adapted for cold environments.
While these findings shed light on the unique characteristics of Greenland sharks, they also raise concerns about the impact of climate change on their health. With ocean temperatures rising, there is a risk that these long-lived species may be less able to adapt and more susceptible to extinction. Camplisson’s research highlights the importance of understanding the metabolic activity of these sharks in order to protect them and potentially learn more about our own cardiovascular health.
Moving forward, Camplisson plans to conduct further research on enzymes and tissue types to gain a deeper understanding of the Greenland sharks’ metabolism, taking into consideration the effects of climate change. By studying these fascinating creatures, scientists hope to not only learn more about their longevity but also potentially uncover insights that could help improve human health, particularly in the fight against heart disease. Ultimately, the goal is to protect the Greenland shark species and ensure their survival in the face of environmental challenges.
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