Genes in Space STEM Competition Publishes First Results

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 28, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The results of the inaugural Genes in Space^TM winning experiment conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS) were published in the Nature Partner Journal npj Microgravity. The experiment designed by then-16-year-old high-school student Anna-Sophia Boguraev of Bedford, N.Y., established proof of concept for targeted detection of DNA sequences during spaceflight.

The pivotal experiments were carried out by astronauts Jeff Williams and Tim Peake aboard the International Space Station, and their preparation and analysis involved a multidisciplinary team of Genes in Space scientists and engineers. These experiments relied on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the gold standard for DNA analysis that is widely used in research and medicine on Earth. Prior to these experiments the technique had not been tested in space. The team's findings establish that DNA from a variety of sources can be amplified in microgravity conditions using a miniPCR^TM thermal cycler and lay a foundation for future uses ranging from environmental monitoring to on-orbit diagnostics.

Boguraev, now a sophomore at Yale University, praised her time working with Genes in Space and said, "In proving that DNA can be successfully amplified in space, I've not only had the opportunity to unify two of my greatest interests, space and biology, but also do it in a way that's not possible in a classroom and be part of a greater mission – the push of mankind towards the stars."

Founded by Boeing and miniPCR, Genes in Space^TM seeks to inspire the next generation of space biologists by promoting youth scientific engagement through authentic research. Students in grades 7-12 have the opportunity to conduct pioneering DNA research in space and build genetic analysis capabilities aboard ISS. The 2018 Genes in Space^TM contest opens in January. For more information visit: www.genesinspace.org.

Media contacts:
miniPCR: Emily Gleason, [email protected], 781-990-8727
Boeing: Steven Siceloff, [email protected], 281-226-4872

SOURCE Genes in Space