Cavefish Reveal Survival Secrets in their Genes

Blind, Hungry, and Mutated

One of the most fascinating, yet terrifying, aspects of Biology is mutations and how they impact the functions of specific genes and proteins.  On March 21, 2018, The International Journal of Science discussed a unique mutation that occurs in the genes of Mexican cavefish.  The author of the article revealed the amazing benefit that has come to these fish from their inherited mutation.  These peculiar cavefish live on a skimpy diet and endure prolonged food shortages.  To survive their state of starvation, they must eat every last drop of food that enters their caves.  From research and study, a surprising outcome revealed another way these fish survive.  

            The question regarding cavefish genes arose when a comparison was made between the Mexican cavefish and their neighboring fish that live in the rivers above ground.  The comparison revealed the length of the different fish’s lives; the cavefish live just as long as the fish above ground, even though the cavefish are in a state of starvation.  The article gave the names of the scientists that discovered the genetic mutation.  Nicolas Rohner of Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Clifford Tabin of Harvard Medical School, and colleagues found that the mutated genes were directly linked to high blood-sugar levels.  Through many lab experiments, the scientists showed how the cavefish gained twice as much weight as the river fish while on identical diets. 

            This article was very interesting to me because it discussed the benefits that mutations can have on different species.  I chose to read and blog on this article, versus other interesting articles, because of the direct correlation it has with humans.  The Mexican cavefish were able to survive in a terrible living environment because of their high blood-sugar levels.  High blood sugar and excess body fat in humans increase the likelihood of diabetes, while the cavefish had no signs of diabetes.  Scientists are discussing the possibility of using the resistance to diabetes in these fish as a model for humans.  If humans could overcome this disease and maintain a healthy lifestyle, many people would be able to live better and more productive lives.  The phenomenon of blind and hungry cavefish surviving their environment can benefit not only science but the human race.

Reference

Nature News (2018). Blind and hungry cavefish reveal survival secrets in their genes. Nature: International Journal of Science. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018-03737-w

~SL