Abstract

One-Step Gene Sampler Tool for Genetic Analysis on ISS

Gergana Nestorova, Associate Professor of Biology, Louisiana Tech University

The aim to support an extended human presence in space has led to the establishment of NASA’s GeneLab, which combines a database repository dedicated to ISS biological experiments and corresponding ground-based studies. The biggest constraints for real-time genetic analysis of biological specimens in space are the time that is required for the astronaut to process the sample and the reduced working area on ISS. Because of these limitations, the number of samples that are currently being analyzed in space is very low. The One-Step Gene Sampler tool can significantly reduce the time required for genetic analysis on ISS and therefore could increase the number of samples analyzed in space. This presentation will discuss the design, application, and validation of this technology on ISS. At the core of this tool is a microscopic pin for the purification of nucleic acid that is analyzed by the WetLab-2  facility currently on station. The Gene Sampler tool can be used for RNA purification at various locations of the biological sample and does not require sacrificing of the specimen. Most valuably, the probes need no further processing to separate RNA from the sample. The specimen’s RNA hybridizes to the surface of the probe and no nuclear contamination occurs. Sampling is completed after a minimum of two-minute insertion into the specimen and the probe can be analyzed directly in the ISS SmartCycler instrument. Instead of using the conventional liquid-based process, the purification of genetic material now can be performed dry, utilizing a functionalized metal pin that is compatible with the ISS environment and analytical tools. The technology was launched on SpaceX CRS-21 and validated by Dr. Kate Rubins in February 2021.