Hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis at 7-12 mbar by Methanosarcina barkeri under simulated martian atmospheric conditions.

ABSTRACT: Mars, with its ancient history of long-lived habitable environments, continues to captivate researchers exploring the potential for extant life. This study investigates the biosignature potential of Martian methane by assessing the viability of hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis in Methanosarcina barkeri MS under simulated Martian surface conditions. We expose M. barkeri to sustained hypobaria (7-12 mbar), low temperature (0˚C), and a CO₂-dominated gas mixture mimicking the Martian atmosphere. The results demonstrate statistically quantifiable CH₄ production under all tested conditions, including at 7-12 mbar. Transcriptomics reveal that low total pressure and temperature did not significantly impact gene expression, highlighting the resilience of M. barkeri. However, at

SUBMITTER: Harris RL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11754898 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature