According to researchers, 2,801 separate genes were activated when H. henanensis was exposed to radiation, all having to do with DNA repair and immune responses.
DODA1, acquired via horizontal gene transfer, activates in response to radiation, allowing H. henanensis to create betalains, which absorb radiation and accumulate radioactive particles.
The tardigrade generates a disordered protein, TRID1, which accelerates DNA damage repair through a process of phase separation, aiding recovery from radiation damage.
Another pair of proteins produced in response to radiation enhances the generation of ATP and NAD+, crucial for cellular energy and repair processes.
Collection
[
|
...
]