Chinese researchers uncover new microbial species aboard space station

BEIJING, May 20 (Xinhua) -- Researchers have announced the discovery of a new microbial species in China's space station for the first time, naming it Niallia tiangongensis, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

As one of Earth's most ancient and diverse life forms, microorganisms are minuscule yet ubiquitous. The newly discovered species represents previously unknown microbes that had never been documented or studied by scientists.

The space station's unique environment, characterized by microgravity, radiation, confinement and nutrient limitations, has long fascinated researchers due to its potential for harboring unknown microbial species.

In May 2023, the Shenzhou-15 crew collected surface microbial samples using sterile wipes, preserving them at low temperatures in orbit. Subsequent ground analysis revealed the novel Niallia tiangongensis species, confirmed through multidisciplinary methods including morphological analysis, genome sequencing, phylogenetic studies and metabolic profiling, the CMSA said.

Microorganisms employ unique biological mechanisms to adapt to space environment stresses, which in turn shape their metabolic and physiological characteristics.

Niallia tiangongensis demonstrates exceptional stress resistance, maintaining cellular redox balance and ensuring robust growth in extreme conditions by regulating bacillithiol (BSH) biosynthesis to counteract space-induced oxidative stress, according to the CMSA.

It exhibits distinctive capabilities in biofilm formation and radiation damage repair, making it a highly adaptable "all-rounder" for space environments.

This discovery offers new scientific insights: the new species adaptation mechanisms could inform targeted microbial control strategies with applications in aerospace, agriculture, industry and healthcare. Additionally, its ability to utilize organic compounds suggests promising pathways for sustainable resource use.

As China's space station continues long-term operation, researchers anticipate significant advances in studying microbial bioactive compounds, genetic resources and metabolic functions, potentially yielding substantial benefits for Earth-based scientific and practical applications.

The related scientific findings were published online in the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology.