Abigail Adams, wife of the second US president, was born in 1744. Greenland sharks, known for their exceptional longevity, can live for centuries. In 2016, researchers discovered they can survive for at least 272 years, with some possibly reaching 400 years old. The reasons behind their long lifespan remain a mystery, with theories pointing to their slow growth rate and low metabolic rate.
Scientists like Ewan Camplisson are studying these sharks to unlock the secrets of aging, hoping to apply this knowledge to human health. Greenland sharks, found in the Arctic and North Atlantic oceans, can grow up to 23 feet long and weigh 1.5 tons. They feed on various marine creatures and can survive on minimal food intake.
Camplisson's recent research on the sharks' metabolism revealed that their metabolic rate may not slow down with age, unlike most animals, including humans. He found no significant variation in enzyme activity in sharks aged between 60 and 200 years, suggesting a unique aging process.
However, aging is a complex process, and there's still much to learn before applying this research to humans. Genetic errors, protein instability, and other factors contribute to aging, known as the 'hallmarks of aging.' Camplisson believes that studying Greenland sharks can provide insights into these processes.
While the sharks' longevity has allowed them to survive for centuries, it may also pose challenges as their environment changes rapidly. The species is considered 'Near Threatened' due to factors like climate change and marine pollution, which they may struggle to adapt to.
