Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30909: Genes in Space-7: Microgravity’s Influence on DNA Structure and Function

Genes in Space-7 took a bold step into the domain of chromatin structure and DNA packaging in microgravity. Led by student scientists Finsam Samson and Yujie Wang from Amplyus, this experiment aimed to examine how the spatial arrangement of DNA changes in the absence of gravity—and what that means for gene function.

In cells, DNA isn’t just floating freely. It's wrapped around proteins and organized into complex structures called chromatin. These structures influence which genes are turned on or off. Genes in Space-7 explored whether microgravity alters chromatin architecture and thereby affects gene expression.

Using molecular biology tools like miniPCR and fluorescence imaging, the team investigated epigenetic changes—modifications that affect gene activity without altering the DNA sequence. Such changes could have significant implications for understanding how long-term spaceflight might reprogram cellular behavior.

This experiment is especially relevant for understanding long-duration missions where epigenetic changes might accumulate and impact astronaut health. If chromatin structures are altered in space, it could affect everything from cell division to metabolism to the immune response.

Genes in Space-7 marked another leap forward in conducting complex molecular biology in orbit, driven once again by the creativity and curiosity of student researchers. Their work added valuable data to the growing field of space epigenetics and opened new questions for future studies.

This research underscored the ISS's role not just as a testbed for engineering but as a frontier lab for molecular discovery.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in astronomy, cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.