A new antioxidant, dubbed “Manganese-Dependent Peptide” (MDP), has been discovered that can protect humans against damage from ionizing radiation. The discovery was made by scientists who studied the unique properties of a bacterium called Deinococcus radiodurans, also known as “Conan the Bacterium.” This extremophile is capable of withstanding conditions that would be lethal to most other life forms.
Ionizing radiation can cause DNA damage, protein oxidation, and membrane disruption in bacteria and humans alike. However, D. radiodurans’ unique combination of factors allows it to resist this damage. Its protective cell wall, efficient repair mechanisms, and antioxidant properties help to remove free radicals that can damage cells.
Scientists have now created a lab-made version of the complex that contains manganese, which protects proteins from radiation damage by removing free radicals. The new antioxidant was found to be highly effective in protecting against ionizing radiation, withstanding over 12,000 times the human lethal dose.
The discovery has wide-reaching implications for both space travel and health on Earth. Astronauts on deep-space missions are exposed to chronic high-level ionizing radiation, while acute radiation syndrome can be deadly for humans. MDP could potentially mitigate these risks by being administered orally.
Furthermore, researchers believe that MDP may have potential in treating metabolic aging, as there is a link between radiation resistance and aging. However, more research is needed to develop safe and effective forms of the antioxidant for human use.
The discovery of MDP highlights the importance of studying extremophiles like D. radiodurans, which can provide valuable insights into developing new technologies to protect humans against environmental stressors.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/health/radiation-resistant-extremophile-microbe-dubbed-conan-the-bacterium-inspires-new-antioxidant