The discovery of a new bacteria species, Niallia tiangongensis, on the Chinese space station Tiangong offers insights into microbial adaptation in extreme environments, potentially aiding in safeguarding astronaut health and spacecraft integrity.
Researchers from the Beijing Institute of Spacecraft System Engineering and the Shenzhou Program's Space Biotechnology Group identified this resilient microorganism within the Tiangong space station. This bacterium exhibits characteristics that enable it to withstand harsh conditions, such as those encountered nearly 390 kilometers above Earth.
The bacteria samples were collected from a cabin used by the Shenzhou-15 mission crew, who spent 186 days on Tiangong. The study, published in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology, details the unique characteristics of this newly discovered species.
Niallia tiangongensis is closely related to Niallia circulans, a soil-dwelling microbe. These rod-shaped microorganisms can form resistant spores, allowing them to survive challenging environmental conditions by entering a dormant state until conditions become favorable for growth.
Scientists have found that N. tiangongensis has a unique ability to metabolize gelatin for nitrogen and carbon. This allows the bacteria to create a protective biofilm, which is an organized community of bacteria, to protect themselves when environmental conditions become difficult.
However, this space station bacteria appears to have lost the ability to metabolize other substances that its earth-bound relatives use for energy. This discovery highlights previously unknown diversity within the Niallia genus.
The potential impact of N. tiangongensis on astronaut health is still under investigation. Further research is needed to determine whether this new species poses a threat to the health of astronauts on the Tiangong station, especially given that its relative, Niallia circulans, can cause infections in immunocompromised patients.
Understanding these microorganisms, whether on Earth or in space, is crucial. Studying this bacteria is essential for protecting astronauts' health and ensuring the long-term functionality of spacecraft, contributing to the safety and success of future space missions.