What sounds like the plot of D-list sci-fi horror flick starring Samuel L. Jackson could soon be a reality as a species of jellyfish have stumbled on a magical fountain of youth that allows them to revert to a younger age an indefinite number of times. The Turritopsis Nutricula can go back to a juvenile form after mating through the cell development process of transdifferentiation. Ok, that’s kind of a mouthful; think of it as “Benjamin Button” meets “The Little Mermaid.” While most types of jellyfish kick the bucket after propagating, the Turritopsis nutricula somehow not only stay alive, but essentially return to a more youthful self. Somewhere rich women are harvesting the sea creatures in hopes of capturing the age-defying power.
Friday, February 6, 2009
“Immortal” Jellyfish Discovers Fountain of Youth
What sounds like the plot of D-list sci-fi horror flick starring Samuel L. Jackson could soon be a reality as a species of jellyfish have stumbled on a magical fountain of youth that allows them to revert to a younger age an indefinite number of times. The Turritopsis Nutricula can go back to a juvenile form after mating through the cell development process of transdifferentiation. Ok, that’s kind of a mouthful; think of it as “Benjamin Button” meets “The Little Mermaid.” While most types of jellyfish kick the bucket after propagating, the Turritopsis nutricula somehow not only stay alive, but essentially return to a more youthful self. Somewhere rich women are harvesting the sea creatures in hopes of capturing the age-defying power.
