Researchers have created a synthetic organism inspired by the bacteria Deinococcus radiodurans, known for its ability to withstand extreme radiation. This breakthrough could potentially allow humans to survive the high radiation levels encountered in deep space, on the Moon, and Mars.
A new study reveals the secret to the antioxidant that allows the bacteria Deinococcus radiodurans to withstand radiation doses 28,000 times greater than what would kill a human. Credit: Northwestern University), which are so-called because they can withstand extreme conditions. These include organisms that can survive in extremely dry conditions, extreme temperatures, acidity, pressure, and even the vacuum of space.
“It is this ternary complex that is MDP’s superb shield against the effects of radiation. We’ve long known that manganese ions and phosphate together make a strong antioxidant, but discovering and understanding the ‘magic’ potency provided by the addition of the third component is a breakthrough. This study has provided the key to understanding why this combination is such a powerful — and promising — radioprotectant.
Radiation Resistance Deinococcus Radiodurans Space Exploration Synthetic Biology Astrobiology
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