Microbiology research in space is important for understanding effects of microgravity and space ionizing radiation on biological organisms, which is critical for human space exploration. CubeSat missions, such as BioSentinel, SporeSat, O/OREOS, and life science experiments on the International Space Station (ISS) have included microfluidic cartridges for research of cell and organism growth and metabolism in space. These systems require sample loading and full system assembly on Earth, using highly specialized equipment and specially trained personnel, which can limit the pace of research advancement in space. Our proposed Microfluidic Biospecimen Cartridge (MBC) system will allow loading, sealing of biological samples, automatic perfusion and monitoring of the specimen growth on the ISS or in a laboratory without the requirement of specially trained engineers or specialized equipment. Once closed, the unit is entirely self-contained, minimizing chance of contamination and enabling safe handling of a wide variety of biological specimens in a microgravity environment. The MBC will allow users to monitor growth under microgravity over long periods on the ISS, providing maximum flexibility for executing experiments. The species studied with this system can be cells, such as bacteria, human cell lines, or algae, fungi, spores and even more complex biospecimens such as C. elegans worms. The MBC will contain 16 wells that are interconnected with microfluidic channels. The channels deliver nutrients and remove waste from the wells. The biospecimens in each well are trapped by filter membranes at the top and bottom of the wells. This project will focus on design and prototype of a microfluidic cartridge that is compatible to standard large-scale manufacturing methods including injection molding, heat staking, and ultrasonic welding. Yeast cells will be used to demonstrate cell isolation within each well, and automated cell perfusion and growth in a complete enclosed system. Anticipated
Benefits: This MBC can be used on the ISS for microbiology experiments, advancing our understanding of space biology. Astronauts can prepare samples on the ISS without the need for special equipment, and all subsequent processes are automated in the MBC. The cartridge can also be used in CubeSat missions, offering simplified, consistent performance, while reducing development time and cost. As a standardized, low-cost system, the MBC also enables academic research laboratories and STEM students to design and perform space biology research experiments. The MBC has pharmaceutical, environmental, and educational applications. Therapies can be tested and validated quickly, as the MBC provides both sample storage and detection of the impact of therapies on cell vitality and growth. It can be used for environmental monitoring such as long-term water and soil testing, and can enhance research potential in low-budget laboratories and STEM classrooms.
