text: Tardigrade specific proteins are a type of intrinsically disordered proteins, which have no predetermined shape or task. These proteins use many different conformations, called an ensemble, to move through different structures. Because of this, intrinsically disordered proteins may react strongly to the environment they inhabit. There are three families of tardigrade specific proteins, each named after where the protein is localized within a cell. These proteins are similar to late embryogenesis abundant proteins but are specific to tardigrades. The three families do not resemble each other and are expressed or enriched during desiccation. Unlike traditional proteins, intrinsically disordered proteins do not precipitate out of solution or denature during high heat. Tardigrades rely on these proteins to help them survive extreme environments, where they put their bodies in a dehydrated state called a tun. In most organisms, dehydration causes problems for cells, which need a hydrated environment for their proteins to function. However, tardigrade specific proteins assist in preventing aggregation of cell contents upon dehydration, and maintain the integrity of the cell membrane upon rehydration.