‘Conan the Bacterium’ is extremely radiation-resistant for a surprising reason

Sign up for CNN’s Wonder Theory science newsletter. CNN — A type of bacteria called Deinococcus radiodurans, nicknamed “Conan the Bacterium” for its ability to survive the harshest of extremes, can withstand radiation doses 28,000 times greater than those that would kill a human being — and the secret to its success is rooted in an antioxidant. When dried and frozen, Deinococcus radiodurans could survive 140,000 grays, or units of X-and gamma-ray radiation, which is 28,000 times greater than the amount of radiation that could kill a person. The study team analyzed how MDP’s active components, including manganese, phosphate and a peptide called DP1, protect cells and proteins from radiation exposure. Now, the team is curious to see whether this triple complex behind Deinococcus’ antioxidant exists in cells of other organisms, and if so, if they could be responsible for radiation-resistance in them, Hoffman said.