A Gene in Naked Mole Rat that Prevents Cancer in Humans

Introduction The naked mole rat (Heterocephalus glaber), a small, hairless rodent, is renowned for its extraordinary longevity and almost total immunity to cancer. Despite living up to ۳۷ years—nine times longer than most rodents of similar size—naked mole rats rarely, if ever, develop tumors. Scientists have long been intrigued by this remarkable trait, and recent research suggests that the secret to their cancer resistance may lie in their genes. This article explores how a unique gene that promotes the production of high-molecular-mass hyaluronan (HMM-HA), along with tumor-suppressing genes like Btg۲ and Tob۱, may offer new insights into cancer prevention in humans. Methods Researchers have studied naked mole rats by comparing their cellular and molecular biology to that of other rodents and mammals. Through tissue sampling, gene expression analysis, and DNA sequencing, scientists have identified key differences in how the cells of naked mole rats respond to stress, particularly in environments that might normally trigger cancerous growth in other animals. These studies have focused on the genes responsible for producing HMM-HA and the expression of tumor suppressor genes like Btg۲ and Tob۱. Scientists have also used in vitro (lab-based) experiments to observe how naked mole rat cells react to induced genetic mutations and compare their ability to repair DNA with that of other species. Results The research shows that naked mole rats have unusually high levels of HMM-HA, a molecule that enhances cellular resilience and prevents cells from overcrowding—a key step in cancer development. Moreover, their cells exhibit early contact inhibition, a process that halts cell division before it becomes uncontrolled. The tumor suppressor genes Btg۲ and Tob۱ are also expressed at high levels, helping to further regulate cell growth and prevent the formation of tumors. These genes act as a fail-safe, ensuring that even if DNA damage occurs, the cells either repair the mutation or self-destruct before cancer can develop. Additionally, naked mole rats demonstrate superior DNA repair mechanisms, enabling them to fix potentially cancer-causing mutations more efficiently than other mammals. Conclusions The genetic and molecular mechanisms that give naked mole rats their extraordinary cancer resistance offer promising clues for developing new approaches to cancer prevention in humans. By studying how these rodents regulate cell growth and enhance DNA repair, scientists may one day translate these natural defenses into therapies that reduce the risk of cancer in humans. As research continues, the naked mole rat may prove to be an unlikely but invaluable ally in the fight against cancer, offering hope for medical advancements that could extend human health and lifespan.

کلیدواژه ها:

Naked mole rat ، cancer resistance ، hyaluronan ، tumor-suppressing genes ، DNA repair