Deinococcus–Thermus

Deinococcus–Thermus is a phylum of bacteria that are highly resistant to environmental hazards. This phylum includes two families, the Deinococcaceae and the Thermaceae, which are known for their ability to withstand extreme conditions of heat, cold, radiation, and vacuum.

Characteristics

Members of the Deinococcus–Thermus phylum are characterized by their extraordinary resistance to environmental hazards. They are able to survive in conditions that would be lethal to most other organisms. This resistance is due to a combination of factors, including their unique cell wall structure, DNA repair mechanisms, and metabolic flexibility.

Cell Wall Structure

The cell wall of Deinococcus–Thermus bacteria is unique among bacteria. It is composed of multiple layers, including a thick peptidoglycan layer and an unusual outer membrane. This structure provides a physical barrier that protects the cell from environmental damage.

DNA Repair Mechanisms

Deinococcus–Thermus bacteria have highly efficient DNA repair mechanisms. These mechanisms allow them to repair damage to their DNA caused by radiation or other environmental hazards. This is a key factor in their ability to survive in extreme conditions.

Metabolic Flexibility

Deinococcus–Thermus bacteria are metabolically flexible, meaning they can switch between different metabolic pathways depending on the conditions. This allows them to adapt to a wide range of environments and to survive in conditions where nutrients are scarce.

Families

The Deinococcus–Thermus phylum includes two families: Deinococcaceae and Thermaceae.

Deinococcaceae

The Deinococcaceae family includes the genus Deinococcus, which is known for its extreme resistance to radiation. Deinococcus radiodurans, for example, can survive doses of radiation a thousand times higher than would be lethal to most other organisms.

Thermaceae

The Thermaceae family includes the genus Thermus, which is known for its ability to survive in extremely high temperatures. Thermus aquaticus, for example, can survive in temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius.

Applications

Due to their unique characteristics, Deinococcus–Thermus bacteria have potential applications in various fields, including biotechnology, medicine, and space exploration. For example, the DNA repair mechanisms of Deinococcus–Thermus bacteria could be used to develop new treatments for diseases caused by DNA damage, such as cancer.

Deinococcus radiodurans, a member of the Deinococcus–Thermus phylum

See Also

• Extremophile
• Radiotrophic fungus
• Tardigrade