NASA AMA: We just sequenced DNA in space for the first time. Ask us anything!

See the source article by following the link below:

Hi Reddit!

We’re a group of scientists from NASA, Cornell University, and the University of California at San Francisco working on the Biomolecule Sequencer experiment which successfully sequenced DNA in space for the first time ever! Astronaut Kate Rubins performed the experiment aboard the International Space Station on Aug. 27, Sept. 3 and Sept. 7.

This investigation demonstrated that DNA sequencing is possible inside a spacecraft orbiting Earth. Ground-prepared samples of DNA from mice, viruses and bacteria were evaluated for our sequencing technology demonstration. We compared the performance of the instrument to samples run in our ground laboratories at the same time.

With a way to sequence DNA in space, astronauts could diagnose an illness or identify microbes growing in the International Space Station to determine whether or not they represent a health threat. A DNA sequencing device also enables new biological research possibilities on the space station, since specimens can be analyzed in orbit without having to return samples back Earth laboratories.

We’re really excited about this experiment that could help protect astronaut health during long duration missions on the journey to Mars. It is also possible that future missions will use similar technology to explore the possibility of DNA-based life forms beyond Earth.

We will be back at 2 pm ET, Looking forward to your questions!

Dr. Aaron Burton, NASA Johnson Space Center, Planetary Scientist and Principal Investigator

Dr. Sarah Castro-Wallace, NASA Johnson Space Center, Microbiologist and Project Manager

Dr. David J. Smith, NASA Ames Research Center, Microbiologist

Dr. Mark Lupisella, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Systems Engineer

Dr. Jason P. Dworkin, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Astrobiologist

Dr. Christopher E. Mason, Weill Cornell Medicine Dept. of Physiology and Biophysics, Associate Professor

Tumblr: http://ift.tt/2ddroaJ

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Space_Station/status/780830461723545602

Facebook: http://ift.tt/2dqO6zv

Instagram: http://ift.tt/2cAZxyI

">NASA AMA: We just sequenced DNA in space for the first time. Ask us anything!