Chinese scientists decode tardigrades' radiation resistance, aims for human protection

Genome study of the animal reveals three key traits responsible for the extraordinary resilience in high radiation

Chinese researchers have identified the mechanisms that grant tardigrades their exceptional resistance to radiation, offering insights that could one day enhance human resilience to similar conditions.

According to a study published Friday in *Science*, scientists detailed how the tiny, resilient invertebrates—commonly known as water bears—survive extreme environments, including intense radiation, high and low temperatures, dryness, high pressure, and even the vacuum of space.

In 2018, scientists collected tardigrades from Henan Province in central China, identifying a previously undocumented species, *Hypsibius henanensis*.

A micrograph of tardigrade. PHOTO: NATURE

The researchers analyzed the genome of this new species and identified three key mechanisms responsible for its radiation resistance: "horizontal gene transfer" from organisms such as plants, fungi, and bacteria; a unique "radiation-induced protein" that aids DNA repair; and "general stress-related proteins" that also support DNA recovery.

The study, the scientists explained, could guide future research into strengthening human cell resilience. "We've found that the molecules, which offer anti-radiation protection for tardigrades, can significantly improve the anti-radiation ability of human cells after being transferred into human cells," said Zhang Lingqiang, a researcher from the Academy of Military Medical Sciences.

"This suggests they have significant potential application value and can lay a theoretical foundation for developing protections against ultra-strong radiation," Zhang added.