Radiation tolerance of nanopore sequencing technology for life detection on Mars and Europa
Date
2019-03-29Author
Sutton, Mark A.
Burton, Aaron S.
Zaikova, Elena
Sutton, Ryan E.
Brinckerhoff, William B.
Bevilacqua, Julie G.
Weng, Margaret M.
Mumma, Michael J.
Johnson, Sarah Stewart
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Sutton, Mark A.; Burton, Aaron S.; Zaikova, Elena; Sutton, Ryan E.; Brinckerhoff, William B.; Bevilacqua, Julie G.; Weng, Margaret M.; Mumma, Michael J.; Johnson, Sarah Stewart. 2019. Radiation tolerance of nanopore sequencing technology for life detection on Mars and Europa. Scientific Reports, vol. 9:article 5370
Abstract
The search for life beyond Earth is a key motivator in space exploration. Informational polymers, like DNA and RNA, are key biosignatures for life as we know it. The MinION is a miniature DNA sequencer based on versatile nanopore technology that could be implemented on future planetary missions. A critical unanswered question is whether the MinION and its protein-based nanopores can withstand increased radiation exposure outside Earth's shielding magnetic field. We evaluated the effects of ionizing radiation on the MinION platform - including flow cells, reagents, and hardware - and discovered limited performance loss when exposed to ionizing doses comparable to a mission to Mars. Targets with harsher radiation environments, like Europa, would require improved radiation resistance via additional shielding or design refinements.
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