How tardigrades are able to resist high levels of radiation

Sub : Sci

Context: Nuclear sector

Recent research has identified genetic mechanisms in a newly discovered species of tardigrade, Hypsibius henanensis, that enable it to withstand high levels of radiation.
This study has implications for various fields, including space exploration and cancer treatment.

About the study:

The research was published in the journal Science and involved multiple institutions in China.
The study titled Multi-omics landscape and molecular basis of radiation tolerance in a tardigrade highlights how certain genes become more active when exposed to radiation, protecting and repairing the DNA of these microscopic animals.

Methodology of the study:

The research team discovered Hypsibius henanensis six years ago after collecting moss samples from Funiu Mountain in Henan province, China.
They sequenced the genome of this new tardigrade species, revealing a total of 14,701 genes, with 30% unique to tardigrades.
The team exposed the tardigrades to gamma rays at doses significantly higher than what humans can tolerate.

Key findings:

The researchers identified 2,801 genes associated with DNA repair in Hypsibius henanensis.
Three primary factors contributing to radiation tolerance were noted:
Rapid DNA repair: The species can quickly repair double-strand breaks in DNA, utilizing a protein called TRID1.
Gene activation: Upon radiation exposure, a specific gene was activated that produces two proteins essential for mitochondrial synthesis, which also play a role in DNA repair.
Antioxidant production: The tardigrade can produce betalains, antioxidant pigments that neutralize harmful reactive chemicals generated by radiation within cells.
The researchers tested one of the tardigrade’s betalains on human cells and found it significantly improved their survival rate after radiation exposure.

Significance of the findings:

The genetic insights gained could help in protecting astronauts from radiation in space missions, aid in cleaning up nuclear pollution, and improve radiation therapy for cancer patients.
This discovery may help improve the stress tolerance of human cells, benefiting patients undergoing radiation therapy.

About tardigrades:

Tardigrades, also known as water bears or moss piglets, are microscopic, water-dwelling organisms that are renowned for their remarkable resilience to extreme environmental conditions.
They often thrive in extreme conditions, including high altitudes and deep-sea environments.
Tardigrades have a plump, segmented body with eight legs, each ending in claws or suction pads.
They can survive in a desiccated state for years, rehydrating and resuming activity when conditions improve.