Microbiome dynamics during the HI-SEAS IV mission, and implications for future crewed missions beyond Earth.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Human health is closely interconnected with its microbiome. Resilient microbiomes in, on, and around the human body will be key for safe and successful long-term space travel. However, longitudinal dynamics of microbiomes inside confined built environments are still poorly understood. Herein, we used the Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation IV (HI-SEAS IV) mission, a 1 year-long isolation study, to investigate microbial transfer between crew and habitat, in order to understand adverse developments which may occur in a future outpost on the Moon or Mars.

Results

Longitudinal 16S rRNA gene profiles, as well as quantitative observations, revealed significant differences in microbial diversity, abundance, and composition between samples of the built environm

SUBMITTER: Mahnert A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7831191 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature