American biologists from the University of Wyoming and other scientific institutions have discovered what happens when tardigrade proteins are introduced into human cells. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Protein Science (ProtSci).
Tardigrades are small invertebrate creatures known for their incredible endurance and ability to survive in the harshest environments, including space. Their ability to withstand external influences was due to their ability to turn their tissues into gel, but until recently scientists were unaware of the mechanisms underlying this feature.
The team focused on a specific protein called CAHS D that protects tissue from desiccation. Using a variety of techniques, the researchers demonstrated how CAHS D gels when cells are under stress, protecting the molecules.
Experiments have shown that when CAHS D is introduced into human cells, the protein also forms a gel, temporarily halting metabolism and returning the tissue to a state known as “biostasis.”
Biologists noted that the effect of tardigrade proteins was completely reversible, the gels dissolved and cells returned to normal functioning.
Researchers hope that the properties of CAHS D will stabilize blood-based drugs used to treat genetic diseases.
Biologists before opened a new species of tardigrade and named it after the snake of the main villain in the Harry Potter universe.
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Source: Gazeta
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