IIT Madras and NASA’s JPL Collaborate to Study Multi-Drug Resistant Pathogens on the ISS
Image Source: The Indian Express
Chennai, June 11, 2024 — Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) have embarked on a groundbreaking study to examine multi-drug resistant pathogens aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This research has significant implications not only for astronaut health but also for combating similar threats on Earth, particularly in healthcare settings.
The study focuses on Enterobacter bugandensis, a prevalent nosocomial pathogen known for causing hospital-acquired infections. Researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of the genomic, functional, and metabolic changes observed in these pathogens in the microgravity environment of the ISS. One of the key findings is the accelerated mutation rate in these bacteria, which poses both challenges and opportunities for managing such infections.
“Understanding the genomic adaptations of multi-drug resistant E. bugandensis can aid in developing targeted antimicrobial treatments,” an IIT Madras press release stated. These insights are crucial for addressing the significant challenges posed by multi-drug resistant pathogens in hospital intensive care units and surgical theatres.
The implications of this research extend beyond Earth. Astronauts on long-duration space missions operate in altered immune conditions and have limited access to traditional medical facilities. Understanding the microbial landscape aboard the ISS is paramount for assessing the impact of these microorganisms on astronaut well-being and devising strategies to mitigate associated health risks.
The study also highlights the potential for applying these findings in controlled Earth environments. By understanding the persistence and succession patterns of E. Bugandensis in space, scientists can inform strategies for managing microbial contamination in closed environments, such as spacecraft and hospitals.
“The current study emphasises the critical need to investigate the pathogenic potential of microorganisms in space environments to safeguard astronaut health and mitigate the risks associated with opportunistic pathogens,” the press release added.
This collaborative effort between IIT Madras and NASA’s JPL marks a significant step forward in our understanding of how multi-drug resistant pathogens adapt and thrive in space, with promising applications for improving health outcomes both in space and on Earth.
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