Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31208: Unlocking Enzyme Structures in Orbit: The PCG-PPAT-1 Experiment on the ISS

During Expedition 21/22, researchers Alexei Voloshin and Inna Kuranova embarked on the PCG-PPAT-1 experiment, aiming to grow high-quality enzyme crystals in the controlled microgravity environment of the ISS.

Enzymes, which catalyze biochemical reactions, are often difficult to crystallize clearly on Earth due to molecular turbulence and uneven growth patterns caused by gravity. PCG-PPAT-1 focused on minimizing these challenges by utilizing space’s weightless conditions to produce more perfect crystals.

The resulting biocrystalline films enable scientists to study enzyme mechanisms in much finer detail. This knowledge aids in the development of enzyme inhibitors, industrial catalysts, and therapeutic drugs.

ROSCOSMOS's sponsorship of this work highlights the strategic importance of basic molecular science in space research. This experiment not only contributes to the global scientific community but also showcases how space can become the ultimate laboratory for precision biology.

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