Published on: Jun 09, 2025
A groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications by University of Rochester scientists has uncovered key biological mechanisms that may explain why some bats can live exceptionally long lives—up to 35 years, equivalent to about 180 human years—without developing cancer.
Led by Dr. Vera Gorbunova and Dr. Andrei Seluanov of the UR Department of Biology and Wilmot Cancer Institute, the research examined four common bat species and identified several cancer-fighting adaptations:
Enhanced tumor suppression with p53: Both bats and humans possess the p53 gene, a critical tumor suppressor that helps eliminate damaged cells. The “little brown bat,” common in upstate New York, carries two copies of p53 and displays higher activity levels of the gene compared to humans. This heightened activity supports apoptosis—the process of destroying potentially cancerous cells—while bats maintain a sophisticated system to balance cell elimination and preservation.
Active telomerase enzyme: Unlike in humans, telomerase remains active in bats throughout their lifespan. This enzyme allows their cells to divide indefinitely, aiding tissue repair during aging. While this can promote tumor growth in other organisms, bats’ high p53 activity counteracts this by removing rogue cells.
Exceptional immune response: Bats boast a highly efficient immune system that not only defends against numerous pathogens but also plays a crucial role in identifying and eliminating cancerous cells. Additionally, bats exhibit a remarkable ability to control inflammation—a process that typically worsens with age in humans and contributes to many age-related diseases.
The study emphasizes that cancer is a complex, multi-step process often linked to aging and environmental factors. While bats are also susceptible to early cellular mutations, their powerful internal defenses allow them to resist cancer development.
One significant finding is the confirmation that increased p53 activity can effectively suppress tumors—a discovery that aligns with ongoing efforts to develop cancer therapies targeting this pathway. The researchers also noted that, although this study did not test it directly, modulating telomerase activity in humans might offer another promising avenue for cancer prevention or treatment.
This research not only deepens our understanding of cancer resistance in long-lived species but also opens doors to new strategies for enhancing human healthspan and longevity.
Source: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/why-dont-bats-get-cancer
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