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Genetic study of Jonathan the tortoise

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2026-10-10 16:34 UTC → 2026-10-12 11:25 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Researchers have conducted a genetic study on Jonathan, a 194-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise, to understand the biological mechanisms behind his extreme longevity. Published in the journal ‘Science Advances’, the research analyzed his genome and epigenome to determine how he has exceeded the typical species lifespan of approximately 90 years. The study identified 287 unique genetic variants that appear to protect against cellular damage, specifically involving DNA repair and telomere function. Scientists observed that Jonathan maintains stable mitochondrial function and gene activity that typically degrades with age in other animals and humans. Co-author Justin Gerlach from the University of Cambridge noted that the tortoise’s slower metabolism may result in fewer chemical reactions and less cellular and DNA damage. Recent analysis further specifies that these 287 variants are associated with reduced inflammatory processes. While the findings provide a biological roadmap for studying longevity, researchers emphasized that additional study is necessary to determine if these specific mechanisms could eventually be applied to human anti-aging therapies. Jonathan currently resides on the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic.

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