Tardigrades Only See in Black and White

Tardigrades were studied to see if they contain light-detecting proteins like their related arthropods. Arthropods contain light-sensing proteins called opsins which help them detect color and ultraviolet light. Opsins are G-protein coupled receptors that generate chromophores so color can be detected. James Fleming conducted research on two different types of tardigrades: Hypsibius exemplaris and Ramazzottius variornatus. The research showed that R. variornatus did not have eyes but had the opsin protein. H. exemplaris had eyes by no opsin protein was present. This suggests that this species does not have the ability to detect color. James Fleming's research team also found that opsin was present only in the eggs of H. exemplaris, which was astonishing since there is no use for sight when inside an egg. 

The Tardigrade's DNA Shield

Tardigrades are known for being one of the most resilient organisms known to man. They can survive drying out completely, being bombarded with various forms of radiation, doused in hydrogen peroxide, and even exposure to the vacuum of space. Early research led scientists to believe the Dsup ("damage suppressor") protein had something to do with this uncanny ability of tardigrades to survive, and recent research explains how exactly this protein functions.

The Dsup protein forms cotton-candy like clouds around nucleosomes. This cloud keeps DNA-damaging hydroxyl radicals away from the DNA. These radicals are most formed in all the aforementioned scenarios- radiation, drying, peroxide addition- and this Dsup matrix blocks them from the DNA almost completely.

This protein has also been added to human cells, and the cells inoculated with this protein show signs of radiation resistance. Additionally, it is known humans have similar proteins to Dsup called high mobility group nucleosome-binding proteins (HMGNs), but it is unknown whether these proteins have the capability of functioning like the Dsup proteins.

This research could lead to fascinating developments in our understanding of DNA and the genome yes, but most importantly it can be used to protect DNA. Imagine the applications of this discovery in regard to astronauts or others in professions where they are regularly exposed to high levels of radiation. Even the common person could benefit from knowing their DNA is more resistant to mutation from UV exposure. While it might not be currently possible to implement such things, the future applications are limitless.

Article: https://www.sciencenews.org/article/tardigrades-dna-damage-radiation-death
Related Link (Paper on Dsup Protein): https://elifesciences.org/articles/47682#abstract

 Key to Tardigrades' "Superpowers"



Yes tardigrades are indestructible. In the article, "Key to Tardigrades' 'Superpowers' Identified in Their DNA" the mystery of why tardigrades have survived so long has been discovered. A study revealed special proteins in the tardigrades' DNA is the reason why they are indestructible. Tardigrades or "water bears" live in damp moss and algae and can withstand up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit to as low as -328 degrees Fahrenheit. These amazing creatures survive by expelling the water in their bodies and shrink into a tiny ball until it is safe. The question is, how do they last dried out for so long? Researchers found tardigrade-specific intrinsically disordered proteins (TDPs) which helps them survive. This protein exists only in tardigrades and is activated in life threatening conditions. Since this protein was discovered, scientists are trying to stabilize the protein and use it for pharmaceuticals to help medicine last longer in harsh conditions.

http://www.livescience.com/58309-how-tardigrades-survive-drying.html

http://gizmodo.com/genes-hold-the-key-to-the-water-bears-indestructibility-1786814698