Hygroscopic Meets Xerophilic- New Methods to Enable Extreme Environmental Bioproduction
Abstract
This proposal seeks to advance cosmic research and operations by addressing current limitations experienced in extended cosmic environments, particularly material and resource-related challenges. The high costs for resupply missions of vital resources such as food, medicines, and small molecules (including components like polylactic acid (PLA) for 3D printing) underscore the necessity for innovative solutions. This project advances a bioproduction-based approach wherein on-site production using microbial organisms provides a promising alternative to conventional resupply methods. To apply bioproduction in space, several hurdles must be overcome. Traditional efforts to explore space-based bioproduction have mainly focused on utilizing model host organism in traditional planktonic growth modalities. Here, we propose to introduce an innovative and orthogonal approach via the use of xerophilic organisms encapsulated within hygroscopic polymer matrices to overcome space-based challenges. Specifically, cellular encapsulation can enable portable, on-demand bioreactors with production levels comparable to planktonic cultures. Moreover, on-demand bioproduction can be sustained via repeated lyophilization-rehydration cycles. Prior evidence from our group suggests these conditions can also be protective for radiation exposure. We hypothesize that the polymer matrix can enhance the functionality of single-celled organisms while concurrently reducing the footprint of production by mitigating water needs along with stringent temperature and agitation requirements. This proposal thus seeks to create these unique hygoscopic environments and understand the interaction of xerophilic organisms within hygroscopic polymer matrices for bioproduction. Finally, a proposed space-flight experiment will aid in the understanding of these cells within space-relevant conditions while also validating terrestrial-condition substitutes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 06, 2025
- Source ID
- FA95502510023
Entities
People
- Hal S. Alper
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Texas at Austin