International Space Station’s fungal problem may have been solved

The water recovery systems on the International Space Station became so clogged that the hoses had to be returned to Earth to be cleaned and replaced. This occurs thanks to biofilms formed by microorganisms that adhere to each other and often to surfaces (for example, the interior of water recovery pipes). These fungal growths can clog the filters of water treatment units on the ISS and cause astronauts to become ill. But now a solution may have been found.

Germ problem in space

Because iofilms can compromise the integrity of and damage equipment, including spacesuits, recycling units, radiators, and water treatment plants, it can be very costly for space agencies to replace affected materials. NASA has allocated approximately 1.3 billion dollars to meet the cargo needs of the ISS for 2023. This is a significantly high cost. On the other hand, preventing microbial growth on space missions is especially critical for long-distance journeys to places such as the Moon or Mars, where a quick return to Earth for repairs or treatment of sick astronauts is not possible.

In a joint study between researchers at the University of Colorado, MIT, and NASA Ames Research Center, researchers examined samples taken from the space station. The scientists also joined forces with experts at LiquiGlide, a company that specializes in “eliminating friction between solids and liquids.” The multidisciplinary study found that coating surfaces with a thin layer of nucleic acid prevented bacterial growth on the ISS.

Scientists noted that these acids carry a slight negative electrical charge that prevents microbes from adhering to surfaces. Scientists also lubricated the surface of the relevant parts used on the ISS with silicone oil, creating a slippery surface that biofilms have difficulty adhering to.

Application of this particular method of coating surfaces with nucleic acids to prevent biofilm formation showed that microbial occurrence in terrestrial samples was reduced by approximately 74 percent. Surprisingly, space station samples showed a higher reduction of about 86 percent. Pamela Flores, a microbiologist from the University of Colorado who participated in the study, said in a statement: “We do not know how long it can maintain this performance. That is why we definitely recommend a longer incubation period and, if possible, a continuous analysis, not just at end points.” She stated that longer studies are required using the following expressions.