The bdelloid rotifer, a microscopic marvel of our planet, is a fascinating aquatic critter that is not much larger than the width of a hair. Recently, researchers at the University of Oxford, University of Stirling, and the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, made a groundbreaking discovery about these tiny creatures – they can arm themselves against infections using „stolen“ antibiotics from bacteria.
Rotifers: Shaping the future of antibiotics
Measuring no more than a quarter of a millimeter, bdelloid rotifers are resourceful survivors. When faced with a potentially fatal fungal infection, they activate hundreds of bacterial and microbial genes they possess. These genes produce a diverse arsenal of antimicrobial weapons, including antibiotics, to fend off the invading pathogens.
Chris Wilson, a co-author from the University of Oxford, noted, „When we translated the DNA code to see what the stolen genes were doing, we had a surprise. The main genes were instructions for chemicals that we didn’t think animals could make – they looked like recipes for antibiotics.“
Magic of evolution
Research has shown that bdelloid rotifers have been absorbing DNA from their environment for millions of years. However, this recent study is the first to document these creatures utilizing the absorbed genes as an effective defense mechanism against diseases.
David Mark Welch, senior scientist at the Marine Biological Laboratory, expressed fascination with the rotifers‘ ability to borrow genes from other organisms and evolve them for their own use.
Could rotifers be the key to better antibiotics?
Exploring the unique genetic abilities of rotifers may not only answer fundamental evolutionary questions but also aid in the development of new antibacterial and antifungal drugs. Given the current concern of antibiotic resistance, these diminutive heroes could potentially provide a solution.
Reuben Nowell from the University of Stirling mentioned, „The recipes the rotifers are using look different from known genes in microbes… it might suggest ideas for future medicines.“
Finding safer drugs: A possibility?
One of the major challenges in drug development is the toxic side effects common in antibiotics produced by bacteria and fungi. If bdelloid rotifers are indeed producing similar chemicals in their cells, they might be less toxic and safer for use in other animals, potentially leading to less toxic medicines for humans.
Peculiarities of the bdelloid rotifers
A unique characteristic of bdelloid rotifers that intrigues researchers is their asexual reproduction. Unlike most animals, rotifers reproduce through parthenogenesis, where the offspring is an exact genetic clone of the mother, without the need for sexual reproduction.
Tim Barraclough, a study co-author from the University of Oxford, noted, „If rotifers don’t find a way to change their genes, they could go extinct. This might help explain why these rotifers have borrowed so many genes from other places, especially anything that helps them cope with infections.“
Biodiversity and bdelloid rotifers
In addition to their potential for medical advancements, bdelloid rotifers play a crucial role in preserving aquatic ecosystems. These resilient organisms contribute to nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter, supporting the growth of aquatic plants and microorganisms. Understanding their ecological roles can help in developing strategies to protect diverse aquatic habitats.
Rotifers vs. antibiotic resistance
The groundbreaking discoveries concerning bdelloid rotifers have opened up numerous avenues for further research to tackle antibiotic resistance. Scientists are keen on sequencing the rotifer genome in more detail to uncover additional hidden genes that may offer further insights into their extraordinary capabilities.
Future of rotifers and antibiotics
With a wealth of genes borrowed from various forms of life, bdelloid rotifers present an exciting avenue for scientific exploration. The findings from this research offer valuable insights for biological research and medical advancements, shedding light on the fascinating nature of gene movement between different forms of life.
In conclusion, the bdelloid rotifers, armed with borrowed genes and antibiotic recipes, showcase the potential of nature’s smallest creatures to provide solutions to significant challenges. The study published in the journal Nature Communications marks a significant step towards understanding the unique abilities of these tiny aquatic creatures. Subscribe to our newsletter for more engaging articles and stay updated on the latest discoveries in the world of science.
