Overview

• Scientists identified a new tardigrade species, Hypsibius henanensis, that offers insights into its remarkable radiation tolerance.
• The study found that 285 stress-related genes are upregulated in response to radiation exposure in these tardigrades.
• Key mechanisms for radiotolerance include the DOPA dioxygenase 1 gene, which produces protective betalain pigments.
• Tardigrade-specific protein TDP1 aids in rapid DNA repair, while BCS1 shields cells from mitochondrial radiation damage.
• These findings could inspire advancements in human health and disease prevention by mimicking tardigrade resilience.