The metabolism of a shark species which can live for 500 years could help scientists treat heart disease and increase people’s lifespan, scientists hope.
Greenland sharks can live for centuries in the frigid polar ocean and take more than 100 years to become adults, but are elusive and little is known about the species, including how they live so long.
Experimental research shows that muscle metabolic activity may be an important factor in the incredible longevity of the Greenland shark, the world’s longest-living vertebrate species.
The findings may have applications for conservation of the vulnerable species against climate change and could also improve human cardiovascular health, say scientists.
“We want to understand what adaptations they have that allow them to live so long,” said lead researcher Ewan Camplisson, a PhD student at the University of Manchester.
It was previously thought that their long lifespan was due to the sharks’ cold environment and minimal movement, but analysis of muscle samples now disputes this.
Research presented at the Society for Experimental Biology annual conference in Prague from Mr Camplisson shows that the metabolic activity of the species does not change as it ages, unlike other species.
“Most species show variation in their metabolism when they age,” he said.
Dr. Thomas Hughes is a UK-based scientist and science communicator who makes complex topics accessible to readers. His articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge research.
