Cornell scientists identify rare human genetic disorder in two unusually long-legged cats

Two unusually long-legged cats have helped scientists uncover the first genetically confirmed cases of Marfan syndrome in domestic felines. Researchers at Cornell University discovered that the brothers carried two altered copies of a gene linked to the rare connective tissue disorder, which can affect the eyes, heart, and blood vessels. Surprisingly, the cats survived into adulthood because their genetic mutation still allowed some normal function.

Cornell scientists identify rare human genetic disorder in two unusually long-legged cats. In a study published in Scientific Reports, scientists reported the first molecular characterization of Marfan syndrome in domestic cats, a condition primarily recognized in humans. Gary and Shaggy first stood out as kittens because of their unusually long limbs.

As they grew older, veterinarians also identified abnormalities in their eye structures and an enlarged aorta, the body’s main artery. Together, these symptoms suggested Marfan syndrome, an inherited condition that weakens connective tissues throughout the body. The disorder affects about 1 in 4,000 people, but these brothers represented the first known documented feline cases.

Scientists may have solved a long-standing mystery about why the Moon’s two sides are so different, using samples collected from its farside for the first time. Their findings suggest that uneven heating from Earth’s gravitational pull drove enormous flows of ancient magma, creating the dramatically different lunar landscapes we see today.

Scientists may have finally solved the mystery of the Moon’s two faces. A research team led by Professor Hejiu Hui of Nanjing University analyzed lunar rocks collected by China’s Chang’e-6 (CE6) mission and found clues suggesting that enormous movements of molten rock shaped the Moon billions of years ago.

The researchers examined the chemical compositions of three types of lunar rock: anorthosites, Mg-suite rocks, and mare basalts. They compared these samples from the Moon’s far side with material collected from the near side during the Apollo and Chang’e-5 missions.

Their findings suggest that the Moon’s striking differences emerged through large-scale heat-driven circulation within its ancient lunar magma ocean (LMO), after the Moon became tidally locked to Earth. Why the Moon’s Two Sides Are So Different The side of the Moon facing Earth looks remarkably different from the hemisphere permanently turned away from us.

The near side features vast plains of dark volcanic basalt and relatively high concentrations of potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorus (KREEP).