Researchers discovered a protein called Balon that can halt a cell’s protein production, originating from bacteria in Arctic permafrost but found in many organisms. Dormancy is crucial for survival in harsh conditions, with 60% of microbial cells hibernating. Balon is unique as it disrupts active ribosomes and is reversible, unlike other hibernation factors. Balon has genetic relatives in many bacterial species, hinting at a widespread tactic missed in common lab models like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Dormancy is essential for all life forms, including humans, and is a strategy to survive global catastrophes. Balon showcases the importance of dormancy in connecting all life on Earth.
https://www.quantamagazine.org/most-life-on-earth-is-dormant-after-pulling-an-emergency-brake-20240605/