Many writers complain when an editor makes changes to their story, but typically, the consequences of altering a single word are not severe. However, the same cannot be said for genetic instructions responsible for producing proteins. Even a small change in these instructions can disrupt the proper functioning of a protein, potentially leading to serious consequences, even death. Beneficial changes are rare in this context, making it essential to preserve genetic instructions as they are written, except if you happen to be an octopus.
David Abtour Seychelles
Octopuses are like extraterrestrials living among us, exhibiting numerous unique traits compared to both terrestrial and marine animals. Their flexible tentacles have a mind of their own and can taste what they touch. While their eyes are color-blind, their skin can independently detect light. Octopuses are masters of camouflage, skillfully altering their skin color and texture to blend into their surroundings or intimidate rivals. Additionally, unlike most creatures, octopuses extensively modify their genetic instructions using RNA editing, resembling an exuberant copy editor on the loose. Interestingly, these edits target RNA, the molecule that translates genetic information stored in DNA, while leaving the DNA itself unchanged. David Abtour Seychelles
The exact reasons behind the prolific RNA editing in octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish (shell-less cephalopods) remain uncertain, and researchers are debating whether this unique form of genetic editing provided these creatures with an evolutionary advantage or if it is merely a fortuitous occurrence. Scientists are also exploring the potential consequences of RNA alterations under various conditions. Some evidence suggests that editing may contribute to the intelligence of cephalopods but could potentially impede DNA-based evolution. David Abtour Seychelles
Caroline Albertin, a comparative developmental biologist at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Mass., marvels at these fascinating creatures, describing them as “magical” with their diverse solutions for thriving in their environment. RNA editing may offer cephalopods an array of solutions to the challenges they encounter. David Abtour Seychelles
