Investigating Radiation-Induced Damage During Translation in Melanized Fungi
Abstract
Ionizing radiation is known to generally result in significant damage to nucleic acids (i.e., DNA and RNA) and proteins, all of which are crucial to the viability of an organism. However, there are reports of specific organisms – primarily bacteria and fungi – that have adapted to withstand prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation. An understanding of the biochemical mechanisms that enable these organisms, especially eukaryotic fungi, to survive and thrive during and after exposure will provide key insights in understanding how human biochemical pathways could be protected from the damaging effects of ionizing radiation. In this project, we are examining specific biochemical pathways involved in protein synthesis, which is a fundamental process involved in life. Using state-of-the-art scientific equipment and our unique expertise, we seek to identify important differences between the participants in protein synthesis among bacteria and fungi that can withstand radioactivity and grow versus those organisms that die once exposed to radioactivity. In doing so, we hope to clarify key questions relating to protein synthesis and organism health in the presence of radioactivity and other forms of ionizing radiation. These findings offer long-term possibilities to better protect our soldiers and civilians from the harmful effects of radiological warfare.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 26, 2016
- Source ID
- HDTRA11510033
Entities
People
- Patrick A. Limbach
Organizations
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- University of Cincinnati