Proteomic characterization of Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from air and surfaces of the International Space Station

Description

The on-going Microbial Observatory Experiments on the International Space Station (ISS) revealed the presence of various microorganisms that may be affected by the distinct environment of the ISS. The low-nutrient environment combined with enhanced irradiation and microgravity may trigger changes in the molecular suit of microorganisms leading to increased virulence and resistance of microbes. Proteomic characterization of two Aspergillus fumigatus strains ISSFT-021 and IF1SW-F4 isolated from HEPA filter debris and cupola surface of the ISS respectively is presented along with a comparison to experimentally established clinical isolates Af293 and CEA10. In-depth analysis highlights variations in the proteome of both ISS-isolated strains when compared to the clinical strains. Proteins up-regulated in ISS isolates were involved in oxidative stress response and carbohydrate and secondary metabolism. This report provides insight into possible molecular adaptation of filamentous fungi to the unique ISS environment. Lastly an attempt was made to elucidate plausible causes of the enhanced virulence of both ISS-isolated A. fumigatus strains.

Resources

Name Format Description Link
21 GeneLab Study Page https://genelab-data.ndc.nasa.gov/genelab/accession/GLDS-261

Tags

  • sample-collection
  • strain
  • protein-extraction
  • data-transformation
  • labeling
  • growth-protocol
  • spaceflight
  • mass-spectrometry

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