Could using bacteria DNA in humans make them resistant to radiation?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the potential of using the DNA of radiation-resistant bacteria, such as D. radiodurans, to enhance human resistance to radiation. While some participants express curiosity about the feasibility of integrating such DNA into humans, concerns are raised about the complexities involved, including the fundamental differences in cell structure and chemical properties. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of nuclear power, advocating for a better understanding of radiation exposure from various sources, including coal. Participants suggest exploring thorium-based nuclear reactors as a more environmentally friendly alternative. Additionally, there is a historical reference to the use of radioactive materials in products like spark plugs, highlighting a past fascination with radioactivity that may have influenced product marketing. The discussion underscores the need for informed perspectives on nuclear energy and its applications.
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I read in alocal daily that some bacteria have around 1000rads. Can we take that dna and put it in humans and make them resistant to radiation. Then can we use nuclear power everywhere(like planes, cars, etc)
 
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Don't you mean that there are bacteria that can "withstand" 1000 rads? :wink:

Yes, such bacteria do exist. There is even one bacteria called D. radiodurans that can survive in radial doses exceeding 1,000,000 rads.

Can this unique feature be intergrated into human DNA? I would like to see you try. :smile:

BTW, this job is left up to biologists and not physicists. :-p
 
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This may be possible put I am not to sure how... I am pretty sure that if we implemented that DNA into humans, I am only saying this in this case, that it wouldn't work as the entire cell structure would change as it is chemical properties that make it resistant so we would need and have new chemicals going around that would probably ruin everything
 
umm, we use more radiative devices and absorb more radiation in 1 day than we would if we has properly shielded nuclear reactors on transportation and no other radiative devices.

educate yourself on nuclear power and radiation and the amount we take in from coal on a daily basis before you make a decision on nuclear power...

also, look into thorium based nuclear reactors, much more friendly to the environment and the the political world. plus, with a fully nuclear based energy supply, we could split water and use H2 as a container for the energy rather than having to have nuclear reactors everywhere.
 
didn't they use to make spark plugs with Po-210?
http://www.theodoregray.com/PeriodicTable/Elements/084/index.s7.html
They used their radioactivity as a selling point.
I don't know why they thought they were better spark plugs.
Maybe it had something to do with a flawed mental connection between the anti-static properties and sparking in a car's cylinder.
 
shrumeo said:
didn't they use to make spark plugs with Po-210?
http://www.theodoregray.com/PeriodicTable/Elements/084/index.s7.html
They used their radioactivity as a selling point.
I don't know why they thought they were better spark plugs.
Maybe it had something to do with a flawed mental connection between the anti-static properties and sparking in a car's cylinder.


I'd say that it was due to the era and nuclear/radioactive mania that made them think it was a good idea. Tesla, a very brilliant man, used to bombard his head with x-rays because he believed that it stimulated neural activity.
 
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