October 24, 2005
1 min read
Add Us On GoogleAdd SciAmFlea Anti-Freeze
make a potent antifreeze protein that is different from the ones produced by beetles and moths, scientists have discovered.
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make a potent antifreeze protein that is different from the ones produced by beetles and moths, scientists have discovered. The protein thwarts ice growth in the snow flea's body fluids by lowering the freezing point of these fluids by about six degrees Celsius. It binds to ice crystal surfaces and inhibits their growth. This allows the fleas to remain active during the winter months. According to the researchers, who published their findings in the current issue of Science, the protein could be a boon to organ transplantation by allowing organs to be stored at lower temperatures, and hence increasing their shelf-life.
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