Cold case

Cambridge researchers are set to explore the uncharted depths of life in the extreme cold, with findings that could reshape our understanding of biology and pave the way for future scientific breakthroughs.

The initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) and the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), will develop novel microscopy techniques to observe living cells at sub-zero temperatures – a feat never before achieved.

The project, dynamic live cell imaging at sub-zero temperatures, aims to break new ground in fields such as biotechnology and climate science. Supported by funding from the UKRI’s new cross research council responsive mode pilot scheme, the research holds the potential to open up entirely new avenues of study, and offer insights that could have far-reaching implications across multiple scientific disciplines.

"Understanding how life functions in extreme cold is not just a scientific curiosity; it's a necessity in the face of the accelerating climate crisis," said Melody Clark, joint Principal Investigator at BAS. "Our research will provide crucial insights into how organisms survive in some of the harshest environments on Earth, which could help us protect these ecosystems as they face unprecedented threats."

The focus of the study will be on proteins, which are essential molecules responsible for various cellular tasks. Although protein behaviour is well understood at higher temperatures, much remains unknown about their function in extreme cold. This research aims to bridge that gap by examining Antarctic species, such as the fish Harpagifer antarcticus – better known as Antarctic spiny plunderfish – using specially adapted imaging tools for cold environments.

"The interdisciplinary nature of this project – spanning biology, physics, engineering, and chemistry – underscores its potential to make far-reaching contributions to science," added Clemens Kaminski, Head of Department at CEB and joint Principal Investigator of the project.

"By developing new technologies to study life at sub-zero temperatures, we are opening doors to discoveries that could have profound implications for everything from conservation efforts to medical advancements to boosting understanding of life itself."

As the polar regions warm and biodiversity faces increasing pressures, understanding life in these fragile environments becomes ever more critical. The findings from this research could inform strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change, preserve biodiversity, and even guide the development of new biotechnological applications.

"By exploring the uncharted territory of cold biology, we are not only advancing science but also addressing some of the most urgent challenges of our time," said Professor Clark. "This work has the potential to reshape our understanding of life and its resilience, offering hope in the face of global environmental change."

Fellow Principal Investigator at BAS, Professor Lloyd Peck, also emphasised the broader implications of the study: “This research could even transcend our immediate environment. With much of the universe existing in sub-zero temperatures, our findings could offer profound insights into the fundamental principles of life, not just on Earth but across the cosmos.”

The project exemplifies the spirit of innovation and exploration at the University of Cambridge and promises to deliver insights that will resonate far beyond the icy frontiers of the Antarctic.

When awarding the project with funding, the UKRI were impressed by the strength of the team in working together to produce an ‘exciting, boundary-pushing’ proposal as well as impressive preliminary studies underwriting the success of the proposed work. The panel noted the previous attempts to receive funding for the project, which had proved difficult due to the inter-disciplinary nature, but felt it is a ‘timely and urgent proposal given climate change’.