The Turritopsis dohrnii, often called the “immortal jellyfish,” possesses one of the most extraordinary abilities found in nature. Unlike most organisms, this tiny jellyfish can rewind its biological clock and return to its earliest life stage through a process known as transdifferentiation.
A Life Cycle Unlike Any Other
Like most jellyfish, Turritopsis dohrnii begins life as a fertilized egg that develops into a free-swimming planula larva. The planula eventually settles on the seafloor and becomes a small, tube-like polyp. From this polyp, new baby jellyfish called ephyrae bud off and grow into mature adults.
Most jellyfish follow this one-way path — but this species can break the rules.
The Astonishing Reversal Process
When the immortal jellyfish faces threats such as injury, starvation, or environmental stress, something remarkable happens. Instead of dying, the adult jellyfish collapses and transforms into a cyst-like structure, which then reorganizes itself back into a polyp.
During this transformation, many of its cells undergo transdifferentiation, shifting from one type to another and rebuilding the organism from the ground up. The newly formed polyp can then restart the entire life cycle, eventually becoming a mature jellyfish again.
This ability effectively resets its aging process and is why the species is often described as “biologically immortal.”
Immortal — But Not Invincible
Despite its nickname, the jellyfish is not truly death-proof. It can still be eaten by predators, killed by disease, or harmed by environmental changes. Its “immortality” simply means it does not die from old age the way other creatures do.
Why Scientists Are Fascinated
The discovery of this jellyfish has captured the attention of researchers studying aging, regeneration, and cellular reprogramming. Understanding how the immortal jellyfish’s cells revert and rebuild may one day inspire new advances in regenerative medicine — and possibly offer clues about slowing or even reversing aging in humans.
Conclusion
In the vastness of the ocean, the “immortal” jellyfish is a quiet reminder that life can be far more adaptable than we imagine. Its extraordinary ability to reverse aging invites us to rethink what we know about regeneration and longevity. Though small and easily overlooked, this remarkable creature continues to inspire scientists and deepen our appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity found in nature. PRIME
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