clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

How the naked mole rat conquered old age

The naked mole rat may not be much to look at, but this burrowing African rodent could help scientists fight diseases associated with aging like cancer and Alzheimer's. That's because the naked mole rat lives six times longer than other small rodents and stays fit well into old age. Vox science writer Joseph Stromberg explains what scientists have discovered inside the cells of this unique species.

Further reading: Do naked mole rats have the secret to long, healthy lives? by Joseph Stromberg

Hands: Joss Fong & Joe Posner