In brief

  • The size of a mammal’s brain may be tied to stronger immune systems and longer lifespans, according to a study from the University of Bath.
  • Maximum lifespan potential refers to the age reached by the longest-lived individual in a species, which can vary drastically.
  • Scientists believe that uncovering the genetics behind maximum lifespan potential could reveal how evolution shapes longevity.

Big brains may do more than boost intelligence—they could also be tied to stronger immune systems and longer lifespans, according to a new genetic study from the University of Bath.

Published in Scientific Reports, the study analyzed genomic data from 46 mammal species, including cats, pandas, and dolphins, and found that longer lifespans are linked to expansions in immune-related gene families and larger relative brain sizes, especially in species like humans, elephants, and primates.

“We identified 236 gene families showing significant positive correlations with maximum lifespan potential across the mammalian phylogeny,” the researchers wrote. “Genes in these families are enriched in immune system functional annotations and among genes previously associated with ageing and longevity.”

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Author: Jason Nelson

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