[FTIR research on tomato pollens with flight mutagenesis]

Area of Science:

• Plant molecular biology
• Spectroscopy
• Astrobiology

Context:

• Investigating the effects of spaceflight on plant reproductive materials.
• Utilizing Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze molecular composition.
• Comparing space-flown tomato pollen with terrestrial counterparts.

Purpose:

• To characterize the molecular differences in tomato pollen exposed to spaceflight conditions.
• To identify specific spectral changes indicative of spaceflight-induced alterations.
• To understand the impact of space environments on pollen biochemistry.

Summary:

• Four tomato pollen lines, including two subjected to spaceflight mutagenesis and two common lines, were analyzed using FTIR and second derivative spectroscopy.
• FTIR spectra indicated that tomato pollen composition is primarily influenced by proteins, amino acids, and carbohydrates.
• Consistent spectral changes were observed in space-flown tomato pollen, specifically in the 1100-830 cm⁻¹ region, with a distinct peak at 1390 cm⁻¹.
• Divergent absorbance peaks at 1645 cm⁻¹ (large space tomato) and 1535 cm⁻¹ (small space tomato) suggest differential responses to spaceflight.

Impact:

• Provides insights into the biochemical modifications of plant pollen under space conditions.
• Establishes a spectroscopic basis for identifying space-altered plant materials.
• Contributes to understanding the challenges and potential of plant cultivation in extraterrestrial environments.