Turtle study findings could tackle cancer in humans
Turtles have a very low number of cancer cases, with tumours almost never spreading.
Researchers led by the University of Nottingham has discovered strong evidence of turtles' resistance to cancer.
A new analysis has revealed that just one per cent of turtles are affected by cancer, statistics far lower than in mammals or birds.
The project saw researchers analyse the medical records and necropsies of hundreds of zoo turtles, including those at Chester Zoo. The findings revealed a very low number of cancer cases and, if tumours did appear, they almost never spread.
The data contradicts theories that species that are large and long-lived are more susceptible to cancer.
Galapagos and Aldabra giant tortoises grow to large sizes and can weigh hundreds of kilograms. Turtles are also known for their long lifespans, with some tortoises living beyond 150 years.
Turtles' resistance to cancer could inform cancer prevention and treatment in humans. Their biological make-up provides a model as scientists study healthy aging and cancer resistance.
Researchers say the secret to cancer resistance could be in turtles' strong defences against cell damage, slow metabolism reducing cellular stress, and their unique genes that protect against cancer.
The authors of the study, Yienia Chiari from University of Nottingham and Scott Glaberman from the University of Birmingham, say their work was made possible by decades of record keeping from zoos around the world.
Dr Chiari, who led the study, said: “Turtles, especially iconic species like Galapagos and Aldabra giant tortoises, are famous for living long lives and growing to tremendous sizes.
“You’d expect that to mean more cancer, but our study, which combines decades of zoo records with previous research, shows how incredibly rare cancer is in these animals.
“It highlights turtles as an untapped model for understanding cancer resistance and healthy aging, and it shows the vital role zoos play in advancing science through collaboration.”
The full study can be found in the journal BioScience.
Image © Chester Zoo
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
