The 1986 Chornobyl disaster created a highly radioactive environment, yet recent research by NYU scientists reveals that nematodes in the region show no genomic damage from chronic radiation, suggesting their remarkable resilience. While some animals in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone exhibit physical and genetic differences, this study emphasizes the complexity of understanding radiation’s effects on local wildlife and raises questions about natural resistance to ionizing radiation. The researchers wrapped each sample of soil or other organic matter in tissue and submerged the funnel under water. Over a period of ~12 hours, the nematodes migrate through the tissue and to the bottom of the funnel. Credit: Sophia Tintori NYU researcher Sophia Tintori measures the radiation in the Chornobyl exclusion zone, where the researchers gathered worms from organic matter including rotting fruit. Credit: Matthew Rockman NYU researcher Sophia Tintori in the Chornobyl exclusion zone wearing personal protective equipment to safeguard against radioactive dust and debris. Credit: Matthew Rockman Worms collected in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, as seen under a microscope. Credit: Sophia Tintori Matthew Rockman, NYU professor of biology, looks at nematodes under a microscope in a makeshift lab in a Kyiv hotel. Credit: Sophia Tintori
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