Survey.Whitecastle.comIn the depths of the Amazon rainforest, a dazzling natural phenomenon remains largely unexplored by the world - the world of bioluminescent mushrooms. These remarkable fungi, which emit an ethereal glow in the darkness of the forest, have captured the imagination of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of bioluminescent mushrooms and the mysteries they hold. Survey.Walmart.com Survey.Walmart.caThe Secret of Illumination Survey.bartelldrugs.com subwaylistensBioluminescence is a phenomenon observed in various organisms, including fireflies and certain species of jellyfish. However, the bioluminescent properties of mushrooms are a less-understood aspect of this intriguing natural occurrence. The primary compound responsible for the mesmerizing glow in these fungi is luciferin, the same molecule found in fireflies. When luciferin reacts with oxygen and an enzyme called luciferase, it produces light as a byproduct. www.slimchickenlistens.com searsfeedbackMushrooms in the Dark rosslistens publixsurveyOne of the most captivating aspects of bioluminescent mushrooms is their ability to light up the forest floor, creating an otherworldly spectacle in the heart of the jungle. This unique adaptation is thought to have several functions, including attracting insects to aid in spore dispersal and deterring herbivores. The exact ecological role of this bioluminescence is an area of ongoing research and debate among scientists. potbellylistens Hidden Diversity While a few species of bioluminescent mushrooms have been well-documented, it's believed that many more remain undiscovered in the world's remote and uncharted forests. Recent expeditions to the Amazon have revealed new species with various patterns and colors of bioluminescence, adding to the diversity of these remarkable organisms. Conservation Challenges The enchanting glow of bioluminescent mushrooms faces a threat from habitat destruction and climate change. Protecting the ecosystems where these fungi thrive is crucial for their survival. Conservation efforts are underway to preserve the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, which is home to many of these enigmatic mushrooms. The Quest for Knowledge Scientific interest in bioluminescent mushrooms continues to grow, with researchers striving to unlock the secrets of their glow and understand their role in the intricate web of life in the rainforest. As our understanding of these fungi deepens, they may hold the key to advancements in biotechnology, medicine, and environmental conservation. In conclusion, the world of bioluminescent mushrooms is a captivating and mysterious realm that offers a glimpse into the wonders of nature. As researchers continue to explore and study these fascinating fungi, we can only imagine what other secrets they may reveal, and what lessons they may teach us about the importance of preserving our planet's diverse ecosystems.

Plants' DNA may lead to slowing ageing process in humans

Plants’ DNA may lead to slowing ageing process in humans 28/11/2019 – Posted in: Daily News

SLOWING HUMAN AGEING PROCESS

Science has identified in the plant kingdom the “missing link” of cellular immortality between human and single-celled animals, according to a new study led by scientists from Arizona State University and Texas A&M University.

This is the first time that researchers have identified the detailed structure of the telomerase component from plants. Telomerase is the enzyme that creates the DNA of telomeres, the compound structures located at the tips of our chromosomes. Telomeres protect our cells from aging as they multiply.

Telomeres

Telomeres protect the ends of cells from shortening as they multiply, thus extending the life of the cell.
Most of the cells in our body have very low levels of telomerase, and thus age as they divide. Aging cells equal an aging body, with cells no longer functioning normally.

Telomeres - Nuclear division

Telomeres – Nuclear division Image: CNN

However, when the cell’s ends are protected by telomeres, only a piece of the telomere, or cap, is lost as the cell divides, and the important DNA is left undamaged. Considering a typical cell divides about 50 to 70 times, having no protective cap could lead to chromosome instability or cells that stop dividing.

In humans, for example, egg, sperm and stem cell chromosomes contain high levels of telomerase, and so can continue to divide over and over and avoid rapid aging.

Telomeres do not have eternal life. Each time a cell replicates, about 20 base pairs are lost from the telomere.

Cancer cells contain high levels of telomerase, allowing them to continue replicating themselves until they form tumors. Switching off telomerase activity in cancer cells would shorten their telomeres, whittling them down to a nub called a “critical length,” which then triggers programmed cell death.

Important Information

Elizabeth Blackburn (American-Australian researcher) won the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine – along with Johns Hopkins’ Carol Greider and Harvard’s Jack Szostak – for their discoveries on telomeres and telomerase.

Source: CNN

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