Tardigrades, or water bears, are very small but can survive in any harsh conditions. They can live in cold, heat, radiation, and even in space. In 2007, most tardigrades sent into a spaceship survived.
Their secret power lies in the “tun” state. When they are without water, they shrink their organs, almost stop metabolism, and protect their cells. This allows them to stay alive for a long time and revive when exposed to water.
Scientists plan to use tardigrades’ resilience for human benefit. For example, their proteins could protect cancer patients from radiation and help store vaccines and medicines for long periods.
Tardigrades are not only interesting to humans but also protect themselves from the harmful effects of climate change. They are among the most resilient and fascinating animals in nature.
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