Squid's Alien-Like Ability

Squid have been found to possess an unmatched ability to change genetic expression through a process called ADAR-mediated RNA editing, allowing them to generate proteins with different properties without changing their DNA. This ability is more pronounced in squid than in any other creature.

The process of ADAR-mediated RNA editing enables squid to produce a wide range of proteins with varying properties, giving them a unique advantage in adapting to their environment. Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), led by first author Jack Moen, explored the proteome of the longfin inshore squid (Doryteuthis pealeii) to understand the effects of RNA editing.

The study, published in the journal Cell, found that RNA editing affects over 2,000 different proteins in the squid's optic lobe and gills, with nearly 8,000 sites where proteins were edited. The effects of RNA editing were found to be significant, influencing protein activity, stability, localization, and interaction, as well as regulation of organelle health.

The optic lobe of the squid, which comprises a sizable part of its central nervous system, displays significant RNA-editing activity. This ability to edit RNA has been shown to influence central nervous system communication, perhaps in response to environmental or physiological conditions.

## Why it matters The discovery of squid's ability to change genetic expression through RNA editing has significant implications for our understanding of the evolution of intelligence and adaptability in cephalopods. As one of the most alien-like creatures on the planet, squid have evolved a unique way of adapting to their environment, which could provide insights into the development of new technologies and treatments.

The study's findings suggest that squid's ability to edit RNA is a key factor in their intelligence and adaptability, allowing them to thrive in a wide range of environments. This discovery could have significant implications for the field of biology and beyond, as researchers continue to explore the possibilities of RNA editing and its potential applications.

## What happens next Further research is needed to fully understand the implications of squid's ability to change genetic expression through RNA editing. The study's findings provide a foundation for future research into the evolution of intelligence and adaptability in cephalopods, and could lead to new discoveries and innovations in the field of biology and beyond.