An international team of biologists has discovered a unique genetic mutation in octopuses that explains their high intelligence and learning ability, reports infohub.kz.
During analysis of the cephalopod genome, researchers identified a previously unseen mutation in enzymes responsible for reading genetic information and assembling proteins. This mechanism allows octopuses to accurately synthesize complex proteins essential for nervous system function. Such an adaptation has not been found in any other living species before.
The octopus nervous system is notable for its heavy reliance on RNA editing, which enables rapid adaptation to environmental changes and modification of nerve cell structure. However, this process often introduces errors in protein synthesis. The discovered mutation acts as a natural quality filter, correcting errors and ensuring precise construction of complex protein structures in the brain.
The authors note that this genetic adaptation allowed octopuses to develop an advanced nervous system, complex behavior, and problem-solving abilities.