The environment of the International Space Station (ISS) is not exactly an ideal place for life due to the lack of gravity, increased levels of carbon dioxide and radiation. Just as humans can adapt to this environment with the help of various techniques, so can microorganisms, which thus contribute to increasing the risks that astronauts have to deal with in orbit.
This is proven by the investigation of the microbiology laboratory of NASA under the leadership of Dr. Kasthuri Venkateswaran, which found a total of 13 new strains of the mutated bacterium Enterobacter bugandensis in samples transported from the ISS. They are genetically clearly distinguishable from terrestrial ones, able to survive in extreme conditions, resistant to antibiotics and able to coexist with other microorganisms and can help them survive.
Enterobacter bugandensis bacteria can be pathogenic and are usually responsible for infections of the respiratory or urinary tracts, bloodstream or genital tracts. They cause a so-called nosocomial infection related to the stay of patients in a hospital environment, whether in the outpatient or inpatient section. The infection affects every tenth to twentieth patient and worsens the course of the underlying disease, prolongs hospitalization and increases the cost of treatment.
Also read: Buy hyaluronic acid online? Almost like self-harm, says the expert
The strains found on the ISS have further increased their resistance and thus pose a threat to its visitors. “The implications of our findings are twofold. First, they shed light on the behavior, adaptation and evolution of microbes in extreme and isolated environments. Second, they emphasize the need for thorough preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of astronauts by mitigating the risks associated with potential pathogenic threats,” the report says.
The conclusions of the research should also be used for further investigation of a group of six risky bacterial pathogens called ESKAPE, which are characterized by their resistance to antimicrobial treatment. Globally, multidrug-resistant bacteria cause approximately 15.5% of hospital-acquired infections and are estimated to cause up to 50 million deaths per year by 2050 if adequate measures are not taken.
Source: Microbiome Journal, NASA.gov
His bite really hurts, just look at it. The inconspicuous cricket has literal biblical roots:
