Microbial ISS gene Exchange (MISSEX)

Persons :

• Prof. dr.  MAHILLON Jacques - Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)
  Coordinator of the project
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  
• Dr.  DE BOEVER Patrick - Belgian Nuclear Research Centre ()
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  
• Prof. dr.  TOUSSAINT Ariane - Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
  Financed belgian partner
  Duration: 1/1/2006-31/12/2008
  

Description :

The MISSEX project will assess the bacterial contamination of ESA spacecraft, the ISS and the Concordia station, and investigate the nature and prevalence of Mobile Genetic Elements (MGEs) in the microbial communities present. Special attention will be given to MGEs associated with pathogenic or other undesirable genetic determinants, which may pose a threat to the health of the crews living in these confined environments.

Satellite(s) or flight opportunity(ies):

- ISS
- ATV
- Concordia


Field of research:

Life Science: Molecular and Cell Biology