How do MG and LSMMG conditions affect the growth of Salmonella and how can such MG-induced changes in this microbe behavior be a concern in space travel and colonization?

Project by Polygence alum sharbani

How do MG and LSMMG conditions affect the growth of Salmonella and how can such MG-induced changes in this microbe behavior be a concern in space travel and colonization?

Project's result

Because Salmonella poses a health danger to astronauts, research on the bacteria in microgravity environments is essential to understanding its virulence and behavior in space. This information contributes to safer and more sustainable space exploration and colonization endeavors by influencing space mission safety protocols and spacecraft design, life support systems, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm development.

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Summary

Salmonella, a well-known pathogenic bacterium, experiences particular difficulties and stressors in space, specifically in varying gravity levels. Significant differences in the growth rate, morphology, gene expression, pathogenicity, and biofilm formation of Salmonella spp. have been found in studies examining the dynamics of the organism under microgravity (MG) and low-shear modeled microgravity (LSMMG) settings. Concerns are raised about the possibility of increased pathogenicity and weakened control of Salmonella infections during space missions as a result of these changes in Salmonella behavior in MG and LSMMG environments. Developing solutions to reduce the hazards associated with Salmonella-related infections in space requires an understanding of the mechanisms enabling Salmonella adaptation to MG and LSMMG settings. The results of these investigations also have wider ramifications for how we comprehend microbial behavior and adaptation to extreme environments. In this review, Examine the effects of microgravity and low-shear modeled microgravity conditions on the dynamics of Salmonella and the potential implications of MG and LSMMG-induced changes in Salmonella for future space travel and colonization.

Isabel

Isabel

Polygence mentor

PhD Doctor of Philosophy candidate

Subjects

Medicine, Biology

Expertise

biology; ecology and evolution of infectious diseases; microbiology, virology, mathematical biology; social and political impacts of infectious disease

sharbani

sharbani

Student

Graduation Year

2024

Project review

“I liked how I got to plan everything ahead and the new insights I received to better my research.”

About my mentor

“She let me take my time since I was busy with school work, and she was very helpful while I was writing my paper, providing me with guidance on finding papers along with helping my paper sound better.”