Microbiologist João Pedro de Magalhães has put forward a fascinating hypothesis that suggests dinosaurs played a crucial role in shaping the reproductive cycle and genetic makeup of mammals. According to de Magalhães, the age of dinosaur dominance completely shifted the evolutionary track of almost every mammal on Earth, forcing them to prioritize rapid reproduction over longevity.
This concept, known as the “longevity bottleneck hypothesis,” argues that mammals had to adapt their reproductive strategies in order to survive in an environment where dinosaurs posed a constant threat. In response to this pressure, mammals evolved to reproduce at a faster rate, eliminating key longevity genes in the process.
De Magalhães points to the absence of regenerative traits in mammals as evidence supporting his hypothesis. While some animals possess the ability to repair and regenerate damaged tissues, mammals, including humans, elephants, and whales, are genetically constrained by their evolutionary history with dinosaurs. They may theoretically have the potential to live longer than most other mammals, but are limited by genes and pathways dating back to the dinosaur era.
The loss of enzymes associated with the Mesozoic Era, during which dinosaurs thrived, has severely restricted mammals’ ability to repair damage, such as skin damage caused by ultraviolet light. De Magalhães suggests that these repair and regeneration mechanisms were unnecessary for early mammals struggling to survive against the constant threat of dinosaurs.
This hypothesis could also shed light on why cancer is more prevalent in mammals compared to other species. The rapid aging process resulting from the increased reproductive cycle may lead to the accumulation of mutations and the development of cancer.
Although the longevity bottleneck hypothesis is still just a hypothesis, de Magalhães believes it offers a compelling explanation and provides a novel perspective on the impact of dinosaurs on mammalian evolution. If proven true, this theory would revolutionize our understanding of the relationship between dinosaurs and mammals and further shape our knowledge of evolution.
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