The sugar-based antifreeze produced by the Alaskan darkling beetle to ensure preservation in subzero temperatures

In last month'e theme report about chemicals, I had emphasized the green chemistry in nature with some examples. Through this report, I am highlighting another unique creation, wherein a natural adaptation that manifests itself as green chemistry contributes to the survival of a species and contributes to maintaining the delicate balance of nature. Indeed when the human race creates and uses man made chemicals, we must consider the impact of our creations and ensure that use of these chemicals does not affect nature negatively.

The Alaskan darkling beetle (Upis beetle)

The Alaskan darkling beetle has to live through harsh winter conditions that can drop to -60 degrees C. While the Alaskan beetle freezes at around -19 degrees, it can survive subzero temperatures as low as -100 degrees. The beetle uses natural chemical processes to ensure that its internal cell contents that are relatively liquid do not freeze.

Xylomannan

Most other organisms that have to survive under extreme cold circumstances use proteins as antifreeze agents but the Alaskan beetle produces a chemical called xylomannan. Xylomannan is a polymer of alternating xylose and mannose sugars. It acts as a sugar-based antifreeze which the beetle uses to keep itself safe.

This chemical uses oily compounds to attach to the outer cell membrane. It then takes on the task to restrict extracellular ice from entering into the cell to ensure that ice does not form inside the cell and affect the stability of the membrane.

Natural chemical integration

The polymer, Xylomannan was recently  discovered in the Alaskan darkling beetle or the Upis beetle by researchers from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks think that using this natural chemical preservation system and integrating either the same chemical or a similar idea at least into other aspects of science can be an eco friendly method of preservation.

Another perfect example of how nature uses chemistry to preserve and sustain a balance. Needless to say, science and chemistry if used judiciously can be beneficial to the environment.

Sources and references

https://asknature.org/strategy/unique-antifreeze-protects-from-extreme-cold/