As for what might be behind this change, the study offered this explanation: “A hypothesis central to our study was that the singular nature of the stresses of the space environment, distinct from any on Earth, could be driving these genomic adaptations.”
Researchers say this kind of study could open a valuable window into how microbial ecosystems evolve in space, especially since these microbes could directly impact astronaut health. The implications could extend into prenatal space travel risks, deep space colonization insurance, and interplanetary wellness program design.
