Introduction
We are all familiar with the iconic figure of Superman, the legendary fictional superhero endowed with astonishing bulletproof abilities. However, let's pivot from the realms of fantasy and delve into a more grounded discussion. What if I were to propose the existence of extraordinary abilities in the real world? Abilities such as radiation resistance or even the capacity to repair damaged DNA.
Now, let's rewind the clock to 1945, a pivotal moment in history: the dropping of the atomic bomb, 'Little Boy,' on Hiroshima, resulting in catastrophic and harrowing consequences. The ethical debates surrounding the use of nuclear weapons were largely centred on the devastation caused by the radiation released. The fact that remnants of this radiation still linger in Hiroshima today serves as a stark reminder of the immense power of radiation and its impact on humanity. Whenever humanity faces challenges, it inevitably leads to a quest for solutions. Perhaps, in this case, a solution may indeed exist.
It is undeniable that scientific science research and explorations have yielded remarkable discoveries. Consider, for a moment, a microscopic entity so minuscule that even a speck of dust would appear colossal in comparison: Conan The Bacterium, officially known as Deinococcus radiodurans. This remarkable microorganism possesses the extraordinary ability to withstand the onslaught of radiation with ease, offering a glimpse into the possibilities of survival against such formidable forces.
“Radiation-Proof”
Conan The Bacterium exhibits a remarkable ability to endure radiation levels that would be fatal to any other known life form. A recent study has unveiled its extraordinary resilience: when dried, frozen, and buried deep beneath the Martian surface, this microbe can withstand an astonishing 140,000 units of radiation— a staggering 28,000 times higher than the lethal radiation dose for a human. This tenacious microorganism stands as one of the most radiation-resistant organisms ever documented in the annals of scientific exploration.
“Pumpkin-shaped” when the specimen is viewed from above.
The Potential Martian
Theorists entertain a compelling notion: Conan The Bacterium could potentially have extraterrestrial origins, ideally adapted for existence on Mars.
To vividly depict the Martian landscape, envision a stark environment; devoid of flowing water or substantial atmospheric moisture, where cells and spores would dry out as a consequence. Furthermore, Mars' surface temperature closely mirrors that of dry ice, indicating an environment profoundly entrenched in extreme frigidity cold.
But here's where Conan The Bacterium defies the odds. This bacterium is what scientists call "polyextremophile," a super survivor that can thrive in extreme conditions like dehydration, acidic environments, and icy cold temperatures.
A dedicated research team investigated the boundaries of microbial survival in conditions resembling the ionising radiation exposure encountered on Mars. Following this analysis, they introduced six distinct varieties of Earthly bacteria and fungi into a controlled Martian-like setting, subjecting them to an onslaught of protons or gamma rays to replicate the effects of space radiation. The thrilling revelation? In this cosmic battle for survival, Conan The Bacterium emerged as the undisputed champion, a living testament to the potential for life's triumph even in the harshest of extraterrestrial terrains.
Despite being in a state of dormancy beneath the Earth's surface for 280 million years, as recent studies have shown, the discovery of Conan The Bacterium heightens the likelihood that microbial life might perhaps exist on Mars.
What Conan Brings to Humanity - A Quick Insight
How Conan The Bacterium, D.radiodurans, has been put to use:
1. Treatment of Nuclear Energy waste
→It has undergone genetic modification to ingest and break down solvents and heavy metals present in radioactive settings.
2. Repairing damaged DNA
→ It isolates the damaged segments in a controlled area and repairs it.
→ These bacteria possess the ability to repair numerous small fragments within an entire chromosome.
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