Nanopore sequencing in microgravity

Area of Science:

• Space science
• Genomics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• DNA sequencing is crucial for astrobiology and crew health monitoring in space.
• Spaceflight imposes strict limitations on instrument size, operational time, and functionality.
• Portable nanopore sequencing tools offer a potential solution for in-flight DNA analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of nanopore DNA sequencing in microgravity.
• To understand the effects of variable gravity on the MinION instrument and its data.
• To develop and evaluate methods for sample preparation and data analysis for space missions.

Main Methods:

• Testing the Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION during a parabolic flight.
• Modifying sample-loading procedures for microgravity environments.
• Evaluating existing and developing new computational analysis methods (wave-fingerprint, entropy signal mapping).

Main Results:

• Successful DNA sequencing was achieved during parabolic flight, including the first reads in microgravity.
• The MinION instrument generated DNA reads throughout the flight and post-flight.
• New analysis methods were outlined, with potential for in situ species identification.

Conclusions:

• Nanopore sequencing is viable in microgravity, demonstrated by successful tests on a parabolic flight.
• Modifications to sample processing and analysis methods are key to improving accuracy for space applications.
• This technology holds promise for future space exploration diagnostics and research.