Deinococcus radiodurans — the consummate survivor

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Abstract
Deinococcus radiodurans is distinguished by its extraordinary capacity to survive high levels of ionizing radiation, and the DNA double-strand breaks that result from exposure to this type of radiation. There are radiation-resistant bacteria in several phyla, including members of the Archaea. Radiation resistance seems to be mediated by passive and active (enzymatic) mechanisms. Passive mechanisms include the presence of multiple genome copies, a highly condensed nucleoid organization that prevents diffusion of DNA fragments generated during irradiation, and an accumulation of Mn(II) ions that might prevent the generation of reactive oxygen species. Enzymatic mechanisms of radiation resistance include conventional DNA-repair processes as well as novel functions. Mechanisms for limiting the extent of DNA degradation post-irradiation seem to facilitate genome preservation and enhance radiation resistance. There are several enzymatic pathways for the repair of double-strand breaks, including RecA-dependent and RecA-independent processes.

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