Laramie, Wyoming – A recent study conducted at the University of Wyoming has shed light on the remarkable ability of tardigrades, also known as water bears, to survive extreme conditions. Researchers have discovered that proteins from these microscopic creatures can slow down molecular processes in human cells, offering potential applications in aging research and cell storage.
The study, published in the journal Protein Science, delves into the mechanisms employed by tardigrades to enter and exit from suspended animation when faced with environmental stress. Led by Senior Research Scientist Silvia Sanchez-Martinez in the lab of UW Department of Molecular Biology Assistant Professor Thomas Boothby, the research provides valuable insights into the potential use of tardigrade proteins in developing new technologies to improve human health and combat diseases.
Tardigrades, measuring less than half a millimeter in length, exhibit extraordinary resilience. They can survive extreme conditions such as being completely dried out, frozen to just above absolute zero, heated to over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, and endure the vacuum of outer space. These findings open up promising avenues for the development of life-saving treatments and the enhancement of cell-based therapies.
The study reveals that tardigrades survive by entering a state of suspended animation called biostasis, using proteins that form gels inside cells to slow down life processes. When introduced into human cells, these proteins mimic the tardigrades’ abilities, making the cells more resilient to stress. Importantly, the entire process is reversible, with human cells returning to normal metabolism once the stress is relieved.
Scientists involved in the research, including co-authors from institutions like the University of Bristol, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of California-Merced, emphasize the potential for utilizing tardigrade proteins to induce biostasis in cells and organisms, ultimately slowing aging and improving storage and stability.
Previous research by Boothby’s team has already demonstrated the effectiveness of natural and engineered tardigrade proteins in stabilizing pharmaceuticals used to treat various conditions without the need for refrigeration. These findings contribute to a growing body of knowledge about tardigrades and their unique survival mechanisms, providing valuable insights for future scientific advancements in health and medicine.
Funded by organizations like the National Institutes of Health, NASA Astrobiology Institute, and the U.S. National Science Foundation, the research highlights the importance of studying extremophiles like tardigrades for potential applications in improving human health and advancing medical technologies.