Tardigrades

Researchers in China identified a new tardigrade species, Hypsibius henanensis, from moss samples collected in Funiu Mountain, Henan province with the ability to withstand Radiation.

Key highlights of  the study

  • Genome Sequencing: Scientists sequenced the genome of Hypsibius henanensis, revealing 14,701 genes, with around 30% unique to tardigrades.
  • Radiation Exposure: The team subjected this tardigrade species to high doses of gamma radiation, far exceeding human survivability limits, to study its response.

Tardigrades’ radiation resistance reasons

  • Genetic Adaptation: The researchers have identified the genetic mechanisms that help a newly discovered species of tardigrades (Hypsibius henanensis) withstand high levels of radiation. 
  • DNA Repair Genes: They identified 2,801 genes involved in DNA repair processes. Key elements include:
  • TRID1 Protein: Aids in rapid repair of DNA double-strand breaks resulting from radiation.
  • Mitochondrial Proteins: Two proteins, generated from a radiation-activated gene, are crucial for mitochondrial synthesis and DNA repair.
  • Betalain Pigments: These antioxidant pigments help neutralise reactive chemicals caused by radiation exposure, protecting cellular structures.

ardigrades’ radiation resistance reasonsTardigrades (Hypsibius henanensis)

  • Tardigrades are resilient Creatures also known as water bears or moss piglets.
  • They are microscopic, eight-legged animals, typically about 1 mm (0.04 inch) or smaller.
  • Classified as free-living invertebrates in the phylum Tardigrada.
  • Their tiny, boneless bodies are supported by a hydrostatic skeleton filled with hemolymph (a fluid-filled compartment).
  • Equipped with a specialised mouthpart called a buccal pharyngeal apparatus, enabling them to suck nutrients from plants and other microorganisms.
  • Known as extremophiles, capable of surviving extreme environmental conditions.
  • Require a thin layer of water around their bodies to prevent dehydration, making them effectively aquatic.
  • Found globally across terrestrial, marine, and freshwater environments from the Arctic to the Antarctic, including high altitudes and deep-sea regions.

Potential Application of Tardigrades

  • Space Exploration: Protecting astronauts from cosmic radiation.
  • Nuclear Clean-up: Enhancing radiation tolerance for workers in radioactive environments.
  • Cancer Treatment: Potentially improving radiation therapy for cancer patients by enhancing human cell stress resistance.
  • Testing on Human Cells: Tardigrade-derived betalain pigments improved the survival rate of human cells exposed to radiation, suggesting promising applications for human health.

 



POSTED ON 29-10-2024 BY ADMIN
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