Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 20016 under simulated martian radiation

ABSTRACT: Future crewed missions and long-term settlements on Mars will require robust microbial systems capable of operating under chronic low dose rate ionizing radiation. Microorganisms are key candidates for bioregenerative life-support applications, including nutrient production, fermentation, and metabolic recycling. However, little is known about how beneficial microbial species commonly used in food biotechnology perform under Mars-relevant radiation levels. This study evaluated the radiation tolerance, growth stability, vitamin biosynthesis, and whole-proteome response of Limosilactobacillus reuteri, under simulated Martian ionizing radiation environment. Cultures were exposed to 21 and 77 µSv h⁻¹ using 60Co (agar cultures). L. reuteri exhibited clear radiation sensitivity on agar, with reduced biomass and altered lag phase. However, in long-term liquid culture under 137Cs irradiation, the strain remained viable and productive, displaying only subtle trends toward lower generation time, stronger acidification, reduced CO2 production, decreased riboflavin secretion, and increased intracellular cobalamin.

INSTRUMENT(S):

ORGANISM(S): Lactobacillus Reuteri Dsm 20016

SUBMITTER: Surya Gupta  

LAB HEAD: natalie leys

PROVIDER: PXD075471 | Pride | 2026-09-30

REPOSITORIES: Pride