Nature Podcast29 Okt 2025

Bowhead whales can live for more than 200 years – this protein might be why

00:47 How bowhead whales live so long

Researchers have uncovered a protein that enhances DNA repair and may explain how bowhead whales can live more than 200 years. The protein, cold-induced RNA-binding protein, was shown to enhance repair of double stranded DNA breaks, a particularly troublesome kind of damage. The team showed that this protein could also extend the lives of Drosophila flies and enhance repair in human cells. More needs to be understood about how this protein works, but the researchers hope that it could, one day, help prevent cancer and ageing in humans.

Research Article: Firsanov et al.

News: This whale lives for centuries: its secret could help to extend human lifespan

11:22 Research Highlights

A precise way to grow crystals, with lasers — plus, the specialist organ that allows stinkbugs to protect their eggs from wasps.

Research Highlight: How to grow crystals when and where you want them

Research Highlight: Stinkbug ‘ear’ actually hosts parasite-fighting fungi

13:31 An antivenom against a broad range of snakebites

Researchers have used ‘nanobodies’ to create an antivenom that works against 17 snake species’ venom. Snakebites kill millions each year, so getting the right antivenom can be life or death. But they are difficult to produce and often are very specific. Now, using nanobodies from llamas, researchers created an antivenom against a broad range of snake species’ venom. The new antivenom can now even be produced without the llamas, and the team hope it will pave the way for a more universal antivenom.

Research Article: Ahmadi et al.

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