
Elephants are special
Elephants' ability to resist cancer is a fascinating topic that has intrigued scientists for years. Despite their large size and long lifespans, which would theoretically increase their risk of developing cancer due to a higher number of cells and more time for mutations to occur, elephants have an unusually low cancer rate — less than 5%, compared to about 20% in humans.
Key Reasons Behind Their Cancer Resistance
-
Extra Copies of the TP53 Gene
- Elephants have 20 copies of the TP53 gene, which is often referred to as the "guardian of the genome."
- In contrast, humans only have 1 copy of this gene. TP53 plays a crucial role in detecting DNA damage and initiating cell repair or programmed cell death (apoptosis) to prevent cancerous growths.
- The multiple copies of TP53 allow elephants to detect and eliminate potentially cancerous cells more effectively.
-
Efficient Apoptosis Mechanism
- When elephant cells sense DNA damage, they tend to favor apoptosis (cell death) rather than attempting to repair the damage. This reduces the risk of a cell turning cancerous.
- In humans, cells often try to repair DNA damage, which can sometimes lead to errors and increase the risk of cancer.
-
LIF6 Gene (Pseudogene Revival)
- Elephants have a gene called LIF6, which was once considered a "dead" gene or pseudogene in other species. However, in elephants, it has been reactivated and plays a role in killing damaged cells.
- LIF6 works in conjunction with TP53, adding an extra layer of protection against cancer.
Why Is This Important for Humans?
The unique cancer resistance of elephants has opened new avenues in cancer research. Scientists are studying these mechanisms to develop potential therapies and preventive strategies for human cancers. Understanding how elephants naturally suppress cancer could lead to breakthroughs in genetic engineering, targeted therapies, and improved treatments for cancer in humans.
This remarkable adaptation is yet another example of how evolution has equipped different species to thrive in their environments. For elephants, this trait helps ensure survival and reproductive success over their long lifespans.
News in the same category


Don't put ginger, garlic, and chili in the refrigerator: Store them this way to keep them

The non-stick coating of the rice cooker has peeled off after long use. Is it harmful to use it?

"Why I Only Charge My iPhone to 80% Instead of Fully Charging" – Everyone's Got It Wrong; Fully Charging Isn’t Always Best

Signs Your Husband Is Having an Affair

The insect, the size of a grain of rice, is 12 to 15 times more toxic than cobra venom

Don't keep these 4 things

Why are there fly designs painted on toilets at Amsterdam airports?

Does the black part on the shrimp's head contain roe or feces? Experts explain the con.tro.versy

What Does a Forehead Kiss Mean? 10+ Reasons Behind This Personal Peck

The Purpose of the Notch on Scissors: Many Homemakers Don’t Know How to Use It—What a Shame!

The photo that made millions of people cry about the profession considered the di.rtiest in the world

Whole family hospitalized after eating watermelon left overnight in the refrigerator: Mistakes in preserving watermelon that many people make

The "Secret" of the Small Hole on a Vegetable Peeler That Made Me Realize My EQ Has Been at Rock Bottom for 10 Years!

Aftershocks: How Dang.erous Is the “Ghost” After an Earthquake and What You Need to Do to Protect Yourself

Never keep these 4 relics

From the earthquake in Myanmar, what do experts warn about high-rise buildings?

Why do hotels allow check-in at 2:00 PM but require check-out by 12:00 noon the next day?

Jonathan, a tortoise hatched around 1832, is the world's oldest known living land animal, aged 191 years

Cruise passenger's unusual tipping gesture sparks f.u.ry from seasoned travellers - but can you tell why?
News Post

What to do if bit.te.n by a dog? 6 safe ways to handle and give first aid

Plants that should not be planted around the house because they attract snakes

A Tiny Seed with Mighty Benefits

Don't put ginger, garlic, and chili in the refrigerator: Store them this way to keep them

The non-stick coating of the rice cooker has peeled off after long use. Is it harmful to use it?

Buy it immediately

The First Image You See Will Reveal Your Personality!

How to Improve Your Mental and Emotional Health

"Why I Only Charge My iPhone to 80% Instead of Fully Charging" – Everyone's Got It Wrong; Fully Charging Isn’t Always Best

Sweet potatoes are great for your health, but there are some special precautions to keep in mind when eating them.

8 Underlying Causes of nip.ple Pain and How to Treat It

9 symptoms of nasopharyngeal can:cer are similar to the flu

How to Make Women Melt

The insect, the size of a grain of rice, is 12 to 15 times more toxic than cobra venom

Nurse kneels, holding newborn baby tight amid earthquake

The Miracle Cure for BLOOD PRESSURE

Carrots are known for their high content of vitamin A

The REAL Reason to Drink Lemon Water Every Day

Health benefits of cloves
