Genome sequencing reveals insights into physiology and longevity of the naked mole rat

The mouse-sized naked mole rat (Heterocephalus glaber) is a very unusual mammal. It is a social animal, living in groups in burrows beneath arid African deserts. It can live for 30 or more years in atmospheres with low oxygen and high carbon dioxide, and is remarkably resistant to cancer. So the genome sequence, published in this issue, might be expected to contain some intriguing characteristics. Analysis of the genome and its transcriptome reveals unusual genomic features and molecular adaptations including strategies for improved genome stability, low mutation rate and improved protein maintenance. The data also reveal molecular adaptations consistent with poor visual function, poikilothermy, hairlessness, circadian rhythms, taste sensing and insensitivity to low oxygen.