Bat Genes Could Help Fight Cancer, Study Finds

Scientists have discovered that bats possess shared genetic roots linked to immunity, virus resistance, cancer prevention, and aging, according to a study published in the journal Nature. The researchers suggest these long-lived mammals could help medicine find new ways to combat cancer. The study analyzed genomes from eight bat species and found they evolved flexible defenses against RNA viruses while perfecting responses to DNA viruses. Long-lived bats appear to prevent cancer by eliminating damaged cells and replacing them with new ones, rather than repairing DNA damage. This mechanism is also seen in other long-lived animals like elephants and naked mole rats. The findings suggest focusing on genes at the intersection of disease, cancer, and longevity could lead to new human medical approaches.