Greenland shark genome reveals secrets of 400-year lifespan

An international team of scientists from Europe and the United States has successfully mapped the genome of the Greenland shark, a species known for its remarkable lifespan of up to 400 years. This groundbreaking research, led by Steve Hoffmann from the Leibniz Institute on Aging, aims to uncover the genetic secrets behind the shark's longevity. The findings were published as a preprint in bioRxiv, marking a significant step in understanding the biological mechanisms that contribute to the shark's extended life. The study revealed that Greenland sharks possess an exceptionally large genome, containing approximately 6.5 billion DNA base pairs, which is about twice the number found in humans. This discovery highlights the unique genetic makeup of the species, which has the largest genome of any shark sequenced to date. The research team, including bioinformatician Arne Sahm, expressed surprise at the size of the genome, indicating that it may play a crucial role in the shark's longevity. Initial insights from the genome mapping suggest that a network of duplicated genes involved in DNA repair could be key to understanding how these sharks manage to live for centuries. This research opens new avenues for exploring the mechanisms of aging and longevity in other species, potentially offering valuable information for human health and lifespan. Overall, the mapping of the Greenland shark's genome represents a significant advancement in the field of aging research, providing a foundation for future studies aimed at unraveling the mysteries of longevity in this unique marine species.