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The remarkable tardigrade, often referred to as ‘water bears,’ has recently gained even more attention as scientists have unveiled a new species, providing critical insights into how these resilient creatures endure harmful radiation.
A collaborative research effort involving various institutions in China has focused on the newly identified species, Hypsibius henanensis, first discovered six years ago. The researchers conducted a detailed analysis of the organism’s genome, revealing a total of 14,701 protein-coding genes, with 4,436 (30.2 percent) being exclusive to tardigrades.
As part of their study, the team subjected these tiny organisms to radiation exposure to examine the effects on gene expression and protein synthesis, focusing on understanding the biological adaptations that grant tardigrades their famed resilience.
The study highlights the astonishing radiation tolerance of tardigrades, with previous research indicating they can withstand doses of gamma radiation ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 grays (Gy)—a level markedly higher than the lethal dose for humans.
The research revealed three pivotal findings regarding the mechanisms that enable radiation resistance. First, a gene identified as DODA1, likely derived from bacterial origins, synthesizes pigments known as betalains. These pigments play a critical role in neutralizing radiation-induced harmful molecules.
Second, it was demonstrated that DNA repair processes occur at an accelerated pace, facilitated by a tardigrade-specific protein referred to as TRID1. Third, the increased production of two additional proteins, BCS1 and NDUFB8, supports energy provision, further assisting in maintaining cellular integrity during radiation exposure.
Collectively, these processes enhance the organism’s ability to cope with the detrimental impacts of radiation, underscoring the impressive biological adaptations of tardigrades. However, the researchers note that further studies are required to determine whether these protective strategies are consistent across different tardigrade species or specific to the genus Hypsibius.
To date, approximately 1,500 tardigrade species have been cataloged. This latest research aligns with earlier findings related to Hypsibius exemplaris, which demonstrated a similar uptick in repair gene activity upon radiation detection.
The implications of these findings extend well beyond the tardigrade itself. Insights gained from understanding how these diminutive animals endure extreme conditions could inform the development of strategies to bolster human defenses against environmental stresses, particularly relevant for long-duration space missions.
Tardigrades are believed to have originated over 541 million years ago, surviving through various geological epochs. Their continued existence underscores the remarkable adaptability of life and reshapes our understanding of the resilience capabilities of biological organisms on Earth.
The comprehensive findings from this study are detailed in the journal Science.
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