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Spaceflight and simulated microgravity conditions increase virulence of *Serratia marcescens* in the *Drosophila melanogaster* infection model

Space Sciences

Spaceflight and simulated microgravity conditions increase virulence of *Serratia marcescens* in the *Drosophila melanogaster* infection model

R. Gilbert, M. Torres, et al.

This fascinating study reveals how spaceflight and simulated microgravity impact the virulence of *Serratia marcescens* using *Drosophila melanogaster* as a host. The research, conducted by Rachel Gilbert, Medaya Torres, Rachel Clemens, Shannon Hately, Ravikumar Hosamani, William Wade, and Sharmila Bhattacharya, uncovers a striking increase in lethality in space-grown bacteria, showcasing complex physiological adaptations that challenge our understanding of microbial behavior in space environments.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of spaceflight and simulated microgravity on the virulence of *Serratia marcescens* using *Drosophila melanogaster* as a model host. *S. marcescens* grown on the International Space Station (ISS) exhibited significantly increased lethality to *D. melanogaster* compared to ground controls. This increased virulence was reversible after ground passaging. Simulated microgravity conditions using a rotating wall vessel also resulted in increased virulence. The increased virulence was observed in both wild-type flies and immune pathway mutants, suggesting that changes in host immunity are not the primary factor. Space-flown bacteria showed increased growth rates both in vitro and in vivo. The results highlight complex physiological changes in bacteria in space environments.
Publisher
npj Microgravity
Published On
Jan 01, 2020
Authors
Rachel Gilbert, Medaya Torres, Rachel Clemens, Shannon Hately, Ravikumar Hosamani, William Wade, Sharmila Bhattacharya
Tags
spaceflight
microgravity
virulence
Serratia marcescens
Drosophila melanogaster
bacterial growth
host immunity

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