How a Water Bear Survives When It’s Dry

Re:How a Water Bear Survives When It’s Dry by brilliantcode on Friday March 17, 2017 @05:24PM (#13898125)

The biggest fascinating point about Tardigrades is that they can survive in space.

I think the implication of this should be explored further.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:How a Water Bear Survives When It’s Dry by leggomylibro on Friday March 17, 2017 @06:07PM (#13898406)

That's what the article is about; when they dry out, they produce an irregular protein which essentially stiffens and preserves the cells while protecting them from environmental damage. When they are rehydrated, the protein dissolves and the cells resume their normal functions.

It's pretty cool, and could indeed lead the way to hibernative naptosis.

[ Parent | on HN ]

Re:How a Water Bear Survives When It’s Dry by xenonysf on Friday March 17, 2017 @07:13PM (#13898762)

Drying out wouldn't be the only problem in space though, there are other problems... (Btw how long they can survive like that though?)

[ Parent | on HN ]