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In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have found that the pancreas in sharks plays a crucial role in their immune response, functioning similarly to secondary lymphoid organs.This finding challenges previous assumptions about immune system growth and offers new insights into evolutionary mechanics.
The Shark’s Unique Immune System
Sharks, which have existed for over 400 million years, are known for their robust immune systems. While researchers have studied shark antibodies for potential applications,including the development of treatments for diseases like COVID-19,the specific mechanisms behind their immunity have remained elusive. Unlike humans, sharks lack major immune hubs such as lymph nodes.
A study published in the *Journal of Immunology* by researchers at the University of Maryland reveals that the pancreas in sharks produces antibodies and screens B cells, effectively acting as a secondary lymphoid organ [1]. This unexpected function provides a new viewpoint on how sharks defend against pathogens.
Did You Know? sharks have existed for over 400 million years, predating the evolution of many other vertebrates with more complex immune systems.
How the Discovery Was Made
Thomas Hill,a graduate student,and Professor Helen Dooley,an immunologist at the University of Maryland Medical School,examined tissue samples from the bearded shark (*Ginglymostoma cirratum*). They identified immune cell clusters within the pancreas, mirroring the function of secondary lymphatic institutions in other animals. These clusters serve as a selection ground where B cells producing antibodies are optimized to fight specific pathogens.
Further analysis confirmed that these cell clusters perform the same function as the spleen: screening for the most effective B cells. To validate their findings, the researchers injected foreign substances into the pancreas of one shark and observed the pancreas of another.Weeks later, they found tailored antibodies in the second shark’s pancreas, confirming that it produces these proteins.
Implications and Future research
The researchers suggest that sharks release antibodies from the pancreas into the intestine to combat pathogens. This discovery also raises the possibility that other animals may use their pancreas, or other organs, for immune defense. Robert Miller, an evolutionary mechanics expert at the University of New Mexico, described the study as “persuasive,” highlighting how sharks have adapted existing institutions for new purposes.
Professor J. Oriol of the University of Pennsylvania’s Evolutionary Museum noted that this “captivating discovery shows that the immune response can be produced in the viral lymphocytic institution.” Even in humans, temporary immune cell clustering may be formed in non-immune tissues such as the pancreas.
Though, it remains unknown whether the human pancreas functions similarly. Professor Dooley suggests that if the pancreas acts as an immune cell foothold, as in ancient spinal animals like sharks, it could explain why the human pancreas is vulnerable to inflammation, which can sometimes be fatal.
Professor Matthew Koshi, a virus immunologist at North Carolina State University, emphasized the need for further research across more species to investigate whether other institutions participate in the immune response. He stated,”It is a study that makes us overlooked what we overlooked because we found everything related to the immune system.”
Pro Tip: Studying the immune systems of ancient species like sharks can provide valuable insights into the evolution of immunity and potential new strategies for fighting diseases.
Comparative Immune Organs
| Organ | Function in humans | Function in Sharks |
|---|---|---|
| Bone Marrow | Produces T and B cells (primary lymph engine) | Not a primary immune function |
| Lymph Nodes | Filters lymph for pathogens (secondary lymph engine) | Absent |
| Spleen | Examines blood for pathogens (secondary lymph engine) | Same function |
| Pancreas | Controls blood sugar, produces digestive enzymes | Produces antibodies, screens B cells (secondary lymph engine) |
Questions for Further Consideration
Could understanding the shark pancreas immune function lead to new treatments for human pancreatic diseases? what other unexpected immune roles might be discovered in different animal species?
Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of Immune Systems
The discovery of the shark pancreas’s immune role highlights the adaptability and evolution of immune systems across different species. While humans rely on specialized organs like lymph nodes and bone marrow for immunity, sharks have evolved to utilize existing organs for immune defense. This underscores the importance of studying diverse species to gain a comprehensive understanding of immune system evolution.
Understanding the evolutionary history of immune systems can provide valuable insights into how to combat emerging diseases and develop new therapeutic strategies.By studying the unique immune mechanisms of ancient species like sharks, researchers can uncover novel approaches to enhance human immunity and fight pathogens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shark Immune Systems
What makes the shark immune system so effective?
Sharks possess a unique immune system that has evolved over millions of years. Their antibodies and immune cells are highly effective at neutralizing pathogens, contributing to their resilience and longevity.
How does the shark pancreas contribute to overall health?
The shark pancreas not only aids in digestion
