TAG: GS-3: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
THE CONTEXT: Recent research has identified genetic mechanisms in a newly discovered species of tardigrade, Hypsibius henanensis, that enable it to withstand high levels of radiation.
EXPLANATION:
About Tardigrades (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.
How Tardigrades resist High Radiations?
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.
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.
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