Pandas have an innate love for bamboo, as if it's in their very blood.

An article discussing a possible explanation for pandas' love of bamboo was published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. As part of the study, blood samples were taken from seven bamboo bears—three adult and one young female, as well as three mature males—for genetic analysis.

Additionally, specialists from several research centers and universities in China examined the microRNA from different parts of bamboo—shoots, stems, and leaves. MicroRNA are special small RNA molecules that do not code for proteins but influence gene expression—meaning how often certain genes code for their corresponding proteins. Plant microRNA can enter animal organisms through food.

The researchers found 57 microRNAs in the exosomes (microscopic extracellular vesicles) from the blood of pandas that matched those from bamboo. In other words, it was determined that bamboo microRNA can be absorbed through the intestines, enter the pandas' bloodstream, and subsequently influence their gene activity.

Some of the identified microRNAs were associated with the perception of tastes and smells, which may help pandas avoid inedible parts of bamboo and select fresher, more nutritious ones. Other microRNAs, by affecting dopamine metabolism, can influence dietary preferences and make eating bamboo more enjoyable for the animals. The scientists believe this played a role in the adaptation of pandas to their specific diet.

It is also suggested that bamboo microRNAs may have "trained" pandas to digest tough food and are involved in regulating genes responsible for carbohydrate absorption, gut function, and other physiological processes related to growth and development, biological rhythms, immune responses, and the reproductive system.

However, the authors of the study noted that further research is needed to draw definitive conclusions about the potential impact of plant microRNAs on pandas.

“Pandas are a national treasure of our country. Obtaining blood samples from them is not easy. If possible, we hope to collect blood samples from very young pandas that have not yet eaten bamboo. Studying them may yield even more astonishing results,” stated one of the researchers.

The scientists' hypothesis raises new questions. How did pandas start eating bamboo in the first place? If the bamboo microRNA was initially absent in their blood, then there would have been no adaptation to a bamboo diet. Moreover, Chinese media report instances of pandas eating carrion when they can find it, and even hunting small rodents.

Pandas show a tendency to pursue animals even in captivity: the male Zhui from the Moscow Zoo chases nearby birds, and only their speed saves them from demise. It is evident that in such cases, microRNA from food has no relevance; the panda behaves similarly to other bears regardless.