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[TECHNOLOGY] · United States · 27 sources

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Jonathan the 194-year-old tortoise reveals genetic secrets of longevity

An international team of scientists has published a study in Science Advances detailing the genetic and epigenetic factors contributing to the extraordinary longevity of Jonathan, a 194-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise. As the world’s oldest known land animal, Jonathan provides a unique biological model for studying aging.

Researchers, led by Benjamin Vaisvil, sequenced Jonathan’s genome and analyzed his epigenome using saliva and buccal swabs. The study identified 287 unique genetic variants that distinguish him from other giant tortoises. These variants are linked to critical biological processes, including DNA repair, mitochondrial function, insulin regulation, telomere maintenance, and immune response.

Additionally, the analysis of his methylome revealed that Jonathan maintains surprisingly young patterns of gene regulation, showing a lack of the typical genetic wear-and-tear associated with advanced age. These findings offer potential insights into the mechanisms that allow certain organisms to resist age-related deterioration.

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Aldabra giant tortoise · Anthropic · Claude · Dario Amodei · Jonathan · Kallel Foundation · Saint Helena · San Francisco · Science Advances · St Helena · University of Cambridge

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