[Comparative evaluation of microorganisms biological characteristics isolated in the orbital complex "Mir" on...

Colonizing and bio-destructive activities and pathogenetic potential of microorganisms isolated from the MIR environment at different phases of its operations were tested and evaluated in comparison with standard "museum" cultures of analogous species. Comparison of bacterial and fungal species revealed certain cultural, biochemical, and morphological distinctions of the "flight" strains. However, to assess the character and the risk associated with peculiar evolution of microflora in long-term space missions, more careful investigations should be followed with the use of the strain genetic labeling and other modern techniques.