Tardigrades

Tardigrades, also known as water bears, [blank] microscopic animals that can live in almost any environment, from the deep sea to the frozen poles. They have a remarkable ability to enter a state of deep hibernation when faced with harsh conditions such as high temperatures, radiation, or dehydration. [blank] how do they do it? Researchers have discovered that tardigrades use tiny molecular sensors in their cells to detect the level of harmful molecules which are produced by stress. These sensors [blank] an amino acid called cysteine, which changes its structure and function when oxidized by harmful stress molecules. This signals the tardigrade to enter or exit hibernation, [blank] on the situation. The researchers say that this mechanism may help us understand the ageing process and the possibility of long-term space travel.