DNA Sequencing To Finally Happen In Space This Summer?

A possible scientific breakthrough might happen soon as the first ever DNA sequencing in space as experts are scheduled to check its possibility this summer. About 20 astronauts will be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) with DNA sequencing as the main aim of the mission.

Kate Rubins, one of the mission members, expresses both optimism and excitement about the ISS mission. A molecular biologist by profession, Rubins has also undergone training for space, particularly on military pilot courses and prolonged underwater sessions.

In a previous interview, she said her past research was focused on Ebola, smallpox, and viral genomics. "But the work I've done with dangerous pathogens helps you concentrate and keep your head together in a difficulty and high-pressure situation," she added.

With her inclusion in the mission team to be sent to ISS, it might already be possible to check the feasibility of using DNA-sequencing technology in a microgravity environment. Rubins shared that she also had an experience using portable sequencing devices when she worked in the field and dealt with diseases such as during the monkeypox outbreak.

In September 2015, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shared the details of MinION on its website. It is a small device that scientists can use in working with DNA sequence in space. This was developed by the Oxford Nanopore Technologies.   

A potential scientific breakthrough might happen if Rubins and the entire team will succeed. Rubins shared that the first part of the ISS experiment will focus on technology development. She said this will assess how the DNA sequencing technology will behave in a microgravity environment. The second part of the ISS mission, she added, is to see what will happen to DNA when in space. Among the aspects to be checked included modifications that will happen due to radiation, sleep changes, and others.