Why in the News?

A team of researchers has discovered the genetic mechanisms that allow a newly identified tardigrades species—Hypsibius henanensis—to withstand high levels of radiation.

About Tardigrades

Tardigrades, often called “water bears” or “moss piglets,” are tiny, water-dwelling microorganisms known for their remarkable ability to survive extreme conditions.
They can withstand environments that would be lethal for most life forms, including:
- Extremely high and low temperatures (from near absolute zero to over 150°C),
- High levels of radiation and vacuum conditions found in space,
- Extreme dehydration (losing nearly all water in their bodies),
- High pressures (up to six times that of the ocean’s deepest trenches).
This adaptability makes them a subject of interest for scientists, especially in understanding survival mechanisms in extreme conditions.

The researchers identified 2,801 genes involved in DNA repair. Three key factors contributing to radiation tolerance include:

DNA Repair Protein (TRID1): Enabled the species to repair double-strand DNA breaks due to radiation.
Gene Activation for Mitochondrial Proteins: Radiation exposure activated a gene that produced two proteins vital for mitochondrial synthesis and DNA repair.
Antioxidant Pigments (Betalains): These pigments neutralize harmful chemicals generated by radiation within cells.