Previously, the British "New Scientist" reported on the results of a study conducted by Spanish scientists.
They pointed out that in the comparison of the DNA of two similar jellyfish, scientists discovered a "magic gene" that can halt and reverse the process of "death."
This discovery holds potential benefits for humanity.
So, which jellyfish did scientists uncover this secret from? What magical code has it provided for humankind?
As the only highly intelligent life on Earth, humans have long been fascinated with the pursuit of eternal life. Throughout history, countless individuals have strived to find the "method of eternal life."
Initially, the focus was on searching for the so-called elixir of life. However, as people gained more knowledge, they began to realize that perhaps we can learn from other creatures on our planet. After all, there are many "long-lived creatures" in the world.
One such creature we will discuss today is capable of not only living indefinitely but also rejuvenating itself. It is none other than the aforementioned subject of the experiment—the immortal Jellyfish.
Also known as Turritopsis nutricula or "Benjamin Button jellyfish," this fascinating creature shares a similar experience with the protagonist of the 2008 film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"—it can grow younger as it lives.
Originally found in the waters near the Caribbean, the Immortal Jellyfish has spread to other regions through the ballast water of ships, establishing new habitats.
Measuring only about 4 to 5 mm in diameter, the Immortal Jellyfish, like most jellyfish, has a transparent body, allowing us to observe its internal digestive system through its skin. Its appearance in the sea resembles a "lighthouse," hence the name.
However, it is important to note that despite its appealing appearance, the Immortal Jellyfish is actually a venomous creature. When consumed along with shrimp skin and shrimp paste, it can cause "food poisoning."
So, how does this seemingly unassuming jellyfish achieve immortality?
In the last century, scientist Maria Pia Mireta made a remarkable discovery in her research. She found that this jellyfish has a unique method of reproduction that directly extends its life cycle.
Typically, a jellyfish undergoes two main stages in its life. The first is the hydroid stage, during which it attaches itself to the seabed or another substrate, with its tentacles extended upward for defense and predation, somewhat resembling a guardian.
The second stage is the jellyfish stage, during which it drifts freely in search of prey.
Most jellyfish follow a life cycle of "fertilized eggs - floating larvae - hydroids - jellyfish - death." After reaching sexual maturity, the jellyfish loses its vitality and eventually dies.
However, the Immortal Jellyfish is an exception to this pattern. After becoming a jellyfish and reaching sexual maturity, it transforms back into its juvenile form. By doing so, it bypasses death entirely, successfully achieving "rejuvenation."
According to current research, the Immortal Jellyfish accomplishes its evasion of death through a process known as "cellular transdifferentiation," in which its cells change from one type to another.
For example, observations of injured jellyfish have revealed that during organ repair, rhabdomyocytes—muscle cells—transform into nerve cells, epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and so on.
While most jellyfish can only perform this miraculous operation in specific parts of their bodies, the Immortal Jellyfish can apply the transdifferentiation function to its entire body. This unique ability is the secret to its immortality.
The discovery of the Immortal Jellyfish's extraordinary ability to rejuvenate and evade death through cellular transdifferentiation offers a fascinating insight into the potential for life extension. Understanding the mechanisms behind such remarkable adaptations in nature paves the way for further scientific exploration and the preservation of our diverse ecosystems.
