In a breakthrough discovery, researchers in Japan have discovered a protein from micro-animals known as tardigrades, or "water bears," that can protect human DNA from high levels of radiation. The scientists, who published their findings in the journal Nature Communications, were studying the tiny marine creatures' incredible resilience when they made the discovery. Tardigrades, more commonly known as water bears, are microscopic eight-legged segmented marine animals that can withstand extreme conditions, including temperature ranges from absolute zero (-273 degrees Celsius) to 100 degrees Celsius, high levels of radiation, extremely high pressures, and even the vacuum of outer space.

Kritz, B. (2016, October 4). Protein that protects DNA from radiation discovered. The Manila Times, p. B6.