On February 19, a sample of methicillin-resistant staphlococcus aureus (MRSA) was launched via rocket to the International Space Station (ISS), where NASA astronauts will study the bacteria to learn how it develops its resistance to antibiotics.
Lead researcher Dr. Anita Goel said the study will look into the effects of microgravity and how it affects the mutation patterns of MRSA, which could be used to predict future resistances and lead to more potent treatments.
“Research has shown that the ‘stressful conditions’ of the space station’s zero-gravity cause fungi to grow faster,” CNNreported. “Goel hopes that the ISS will work in a similar way for the bacteria to give us a predictive edge on superbugs.”
Posted On February 22, 2017
