Ionizing Radiation Changes Melanin Properties and Fungal Growth
Author Information
Author(s): Dadachova Ekaterina, Bryan Ruth A., Huang Xianchun, Moadel Tiffany, Schweitzer Andrew D., Aisen Philip, Nosanchuk Joshua D., Casadevall Arturo
Primary Institution: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Hypothesis
Ionizing radiation could change the electronic properties of melanin and might enhance the growth of melanized microorganisms.
Conclusion
Exposure to ionizing radiation enhances the growth of melanized fungal cells compared to non-melanized cells.
Supporting Evidence
- Irradiated melanin showed a 4-fold increase in its capacity to reduce NADH compared to non-irradiated melanin.
- Melanized C. neoformans cells exposed to ionizing radiation grew significantly faster than non-melanized cells.
- Radiation enhanced the growth of melanized Cladosporium sphaerospermum cells under limited nutrient conditions.
- Electron transfer properties of melanin increased after exposure to ionizing radiation.
Takeaway
When certain fungi with melanin are exposed to radiation, they grow faster and better than those without melanin.
Methodology
The study involved irradiating melanin and measuring its electron transfer properties, as well as assessing the growth of melanized and non-melanized fungi under radiation.
Limitations
The study's findings may be influenced by the specific conditions of the experiments, such as the types of fungi used and the radiation levels applied.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website