Research · Updated 8 Oct, 01:31 am IST
Scientists sequence genome of Jonathan, a ~194‑year‑old tortoise
Why it matters for readers: It explains why a nearly 200‑year‑old tortoise is still alive by pointing to specific genetic differences scientists found.
- Jonathan, an Aldabra giant tortoise hatched around 1832 and living on Saint Helena, had his genome sequenced for the first time.1
- Comparisons with other tortoises revealed unique gene variants in multiple aging pathways, including DNA repair and insulin regulation.1
- Researchers also observed differences in mitochondrial function and low‑entropy methylation patterns tied to aging in Jonathan’s genome.1
- The results aim to help scientists better understand the complex hallmarks of aging across species.1
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