Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Zhang, Xing-Hai

Abstract

DNA damage is one of the most harmful stress inducers in living organisms. Studies have shown that exposure to high doses of various types of radiation cause DNA sequence changes (mutation) and disturb protein synthesis, hormone balance, leaf gas exchange and enzyme activity. Recent discovery of a protein called Damage Suppressor Protein (Dsup), found in the tardigrade species Ramazzotius varieornatus, has shown to reduce the effects of radiation damage in human cell lines. We have generated multiple lines of tobacco plants expressing the Dsup gene and preformed numerous tests to show viability and response of these transgenic plants when exposed to mutagenic chemicals, UV radiation and ionizing radiation. We have also investigated Dsup function in association to DNA damage and repair in plants by analyzing the expression of related genes using RT-qPCR. We have also analyzed DNA damage from X-ray and UV treatments using an Alkaline Comet Assay. This project has the potential to help generate plants that are tolerant to more extreme stress environments, particularly DNA damage and mutation, unshielded by our atmosphere. The possibility of growing plants accompanying human space travel and extraterrestrial colonization inspires our imagination. Extremotolerant tardigrade genes such as Dsup may be a valuable avenue in helping to cultivate crops in these future endeavors.

Extent

52 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2019.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00013384

Format

pdf

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