New bacterial species discovered in NASA's cleanrooms
5 hours ago
- #biomolecules
- #NASA cleanrooms
- #bacterial species
- Some microbes persist in NASA cleanrooms despite sterilization efforts like humidity reduction, intense cleaning, and radiation exposure.
- Researchers identified 26 new bacterial species in the cleanroom where the Phoenix Mars Lander was assembled.
- These bacteria resist cleaning chemicals and cling to surfaces via sticky films, with some having radiation-protective and cell-repair genes.
- Several species can form spores, allowing survival in harsh conditions.
- Many bacteria produce valuable natural compounds, such as antimicrobial polymers, antioxidants like zeaxanthin, iron-capturing molecules, and anticancer agents.
- Their unique metabolic capabilities make them promising sources for novel biomolecules with industrial applications on Earth.