Gene expression studies using a miniaturized thermal cycler system on board the International Space Station.

ABSTRACT: The distance and duration of human spaceflight missions is set to markedly increase over the coming decade as we prepare to send astronauts to Mars. However, the health impact of long-term exposure to cosmic radiation and microgravity is not fully understood. In order to identify the molecular mechanisms underpinning the effects of space travel on human health, we must develop the capacity to monitor changes in gene expression and DNA integrity in space. Here, we report successful implementation of three molecular biology procedures on board the International Space Station (ISS) using a miniaturized thermal cycler system and C. elegans as a model organism: first, DNA extraction-the initial step for any type of DNA analysis; second, reverse transcription of RNA to generate complementary DNA

SUBMITTER: Montague TG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6209215 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature