In body size-lifespan terms, only 19 mammals outlive humans. Eighteen of those are bats. The longest-lived one is the greater mouse-eared bat in France. And no, it’s not about the wine and cheese — it’s all about telomeres. Telomeres are thread-like strands at the end of our chromosomes inside a cell’s nucleus. Every time our cells replicate themselves, the telomeres shorten just a bit. This results in aging… unless you’re a bat.
Researchers have found that bats’ telomeres shorten much less over time. Bats should only live about four years, but many live 30—40 years on a carnivorous diet of beetles, crickets and spiders. Let’s hope that’s not the reason why! One potential military application is the possible extension of active duty for soldiers that age slower, with longer expected lifespans. Lots of opportunity in the near — and distant — future. Learn more here.
Researchers have found that bats’ telomeres shorten much less over time. Bats should only live about four years, but many live 30—40 years on a carnivorous diet of beetles, crickets and spiders. Let’s hope that’s not the reason why! One potential military application is the possible extension of active duty for soldiers that age slower, with longer expected lifespans. Lots of opportunity in the near — and distant — future. Learn more here.
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