Latest news with #KingAbdullahUniversityofScienceandTechnology
USA Today
19-05-2025
- Science
- USA Today
NASA 'cleanrooms' found crawling with 26 new bacterial species
NASA 'cleanrooms' found crawling with 26 new bacterial species Show Caption Hide Caption NASA's Space Launch System, Orion capsule face budget uncertainty A budget proposal from the White House could reduce NASA's budget by about $6 billion, or 25%. Many of these species possess genes that make them resistant to decontamination and radiation, potentially posing a risk of interplanetary contamination. These "extremophile" microorganisms could lead to new biotechnologies in fields like medicine and food preservation. Scientists believe studying these extremophiles could revolutionize life sciences, bioengineering, and space exploration. Wait, aren't "clean" rooms supposed to be, well, "clean" of germs and other pesky microscopic particles? Maybe not: A new study reports 26 new bacterial species were found growing inside cleanrooms associated with NASA space missions. Specifically, scientists looked in the cleanrooms used to prepare the Phoenix Mars lander for its August 2007 launch. In the study, scientists analyzed microorganisms growing in the NASA cleanrooms, and discovered many of the new species possessed genes that made them resilient to decontamination and radiation. "We are unraveling the mysteries of microbes that withstand the extreme conditions of space – organisms with the potential to revolutionize the life sciences, bioengineering, and interplanetary exploration," said Kasthuri Venkateswaran, retired senior research scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and a lead author of the study, in a statement. What is a cleanroom? Spacecraft are assembled in cleanrooms, which are highly specialized facilities engineered to maintain exceptionally low levels of dust and microorganisms. Cleanrooms are key as spacecraft are built and tested: Even tiny particles or contamination can impact delicate instruments and sensitive components. These controlled environments are extreme in their own right, with tightly regulated airflow, temperature and humidity that inhibit microbial survival. However, some microorganisms – known as "extremophiles" – thrive in such environments. 'Extremophiles' can survive in space "Our study aimed to understand the risk of extremophiles being transferred in space missions and to identify which microorganisms might survive the harsh conditions of space," said study team member Alexandre Rosado from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. "This effort is pivotal for monitoring the risk of microbial contamination and safeguarding against unintentional colonization of exploring planets," he added. New biotechnologies possible These previously unknown and newly described species carry genetic traits associated with resilience to extreme environments such as those found in space. Some of the discovered genes were associated with DNA repair, the detoxification of harmful molecules and improved metabolism, all of which increased the species' survivability. Scientists said these genes could lead to new biotechnologies that benefit food preservation and medicine. "These findings not only raise important considerations for planetary protection but also open the door for biotechnological innovation," said Junia Schultz, a postdoctoral fellow at KAUST, who was the first author of the study. "Space travel provides an opportunity to study microorganisms that possess relevant stress-resistance genes," Schultz added. "The genes identified in these newly discovered bacterial species could be engineered for applications in medicine, food preservation, and other industries." The study was published May 12 in the journal Microbiome.
NDTV
16-05-2025
- Science
- NDTV
NASA's Cleanrooms Discover 26 New Types Of Bacteria That Could Survive Space
New Delhi: Scientists have discovered 26 new types of bacteria growing inside NASA's cleanrooms - the place where spacecraft are built. These species can survive in extreme conditions similar to those found in space, according to a study published in Microbiome. The study, conducted by scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia and in collaboration with NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, appears to be a surprising discovery given how clean and sterilised NASA's cleanrooms are to keep spacecraft free from contamination. NASA builds satellite rovers in cleanrooms where temperature, humidity and airflow are controlled to keep the environment super clean, making it impossible for bacteria to survive. The team noted that some can even survive radiation or resist harmful chemicals. This suggests that they could potentially withstand the harsh environment of space travel. Dr Kasthuri Venkateswaran, retired Senior Research Scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and a lead author of the study, said, "This partnership not only supports Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision through the Saudi Space Agency but also reinforces KAUST's emergence as a global leader in microbial and space biology research." He added, "Together, we are unravelling the mysteries of microbes that withstand the extreme conditions of space." Professor Alexandre Rosado, the lead KAUST researcher on the project, said the study helps understand the types of microbes that could survive and travel to space. It is crucial to avoid spreading these Earth germs to other planets during space missions, he said. "Our study aimed to understand the risk of extremophiles being transferred in space missions by analysing their genetic traits," he said. Postdoctoral researcher Junia Schultz, who supervised the study, mentioned that these microbes weren't just a warning but could also be useful as their special genes might help us create new medicines, ensure food safety, or be used for other experiements in the future.
Leaders
08-05-2025
- Science
- Leaders
KAUST Researchers Embark on Groundbreaking OceanQuest Expedition Around Africa
A team of researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) participated in the inaugural OceanQuest expedition — a major scientific journey led by the Saudi non-profit foundation aboard the cutting-edge research vessel RV OceanXplorer . This landmark mission highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to building national scientific capacity and strengthening global research partnerships, in alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Launching from Moroni in the Comoros, the expedition traveled south through the Indian Ocean to Cape Town, South Africa, focusing on the study of marine biodiversity across key seamounts. A second leg of the journey — tailored for early-career oceanographers — continued northward to Walvis Bay, Namibia, and concluded in Mindelo, Cabo Verde. KAUST's team included three PhD students: two from the Marine Microbiome Lab and one from the Earth Science and Engineering program. Additionally, their work centered on biodiversity assessments, seamount research, and chemical analyses — offering valuable, hands-on field experience. The researchers also investigated seamount formation in the Indian Ocean, aiming to draw parallels with geological features in Saudi Arabian waters. Finally, through ocean depth mapping and sample collection, the team gained practical insights with direct relevance to marine research within the Kingdom. Related Topics: KAUST Coral Restoration Initiative Prepares for Groundbreaking 2025 U.S. Secretary of Energy Visits KAUST to Strengthen Energy Collaboration Special Zone Brings African Spirit at Boulevard World Riyadh Season to Host African Super Cup between Al-Ahly, Zamalek in Sept. Short link : Post Views: 14
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists develop revolutionary material that could transform how we grow food: 'Lets good light in and keeps bad light out'
A group of scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has developed a new nanoplastic and biodegradable mulch for greenhouses to improve crop growth in hot, arid regions like the Middle East. These passive cooling technologies, as a report shared by explained, have succeeded in lowering temperatures in small test greenhouses by 77 degrees Fahrenheit, while increasing Chinese cabbage crop yields by 200%. Their nanoplastic covering, which is made of polyethylene and cesium tungsten oxide nanoparticles, serves to absorb infrared light and let visible light pass through it. This drastically reduces greenhouse temperatures, while still fostering the photosynthesis needed for plant growth. "Most greenhouse covers, whether they are made of glass, polycarbonate or polyethylene, transmit more than 90% of light, including infrared light, which has no benefit to crop yield but generates heat. Our goal was to create a cover that lets good light in and keeps bad light out," said KAUST Professor Qiaoqiang Gan, who developed the nanoplastic and is an expert in passive cooling systems, per the article. The remaining sunlight still generates heat, which is why many farmers use mulch to cool down soil. These are usually plastic covers that have few practical recycling options and can break down in the soil. Their solution is a biodegradable cellulose paper that can reflect 93% of the sun's rays and provide shade to the soil as plant leaves grow, and it will degrade naturally into the earth. "Most commercial mulch is plastic and extremely wasteful. It results in about 1.5 million tons of waste, and more than 40% goes unrecycled. Plus, this leaves microplastics in our soil that can enter the food chain," said post-doctoral researcher Yanpei Tian. Through the use of these innovative solutions, the researchers believe they can reduce agricultural energy consumption by 40% in hot cities around the world. There will be less need for active cooling to protect crops, and water consumption can be reduced with lower temperatures. Similar work has been done by a company called Iyris and their Second Sky product, which also uses nanoparticles in greenhouse plastics to filter the sun's rays. Others have used spray coatings to convert the sun's rays into the most efficient wavelength for photosynthesis. This research is crucial for lowering food costs and ensuring long-term food security across the globe in the face of rising temperatures and extreme weather. The combination of developing heat-resistant crops, modernizing agricultural practices, and expanding the biodiversity of crops is crucial to weathering the changing climate. What is the biggest factor you consider when planning a vacation? Cost Distance from home Whether it's family-friendly Sightseeing and entertainment Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
CairoScene
28-04-2025
- Science
- CairoScene
Red Sea's Largest Coral Colony Discovered Off Amaala Coast
The ancient colossal coral stands as the largest documented coral colony of its type in the Red Sea. A colossal coral colony estimated to be between 400 and 800 years old has been discovered in the Red Sea within the waters of Amaala in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, according to Red Sea Global (RSG). The coral, identified as part of the Pavona species, measures between 26 and 36 metres in length and 21 metres in width, rivaling the size of the current world record holder located in the Pacific. It stands as the largest documented coral colony of its type in the Red Sea. The find is expected to become a major attraction for diving tourists visiting Amaala, with access carefully managed to minimize environmental impact. Researchers have described the coral as a "time capsule" that could offer critical insights into past oceanographic transformations and help model responses to future environmental changes. Based on its size, photogrammetry, and growth rate comparisons with Pacific species, the coral's estimated age could predate the world's current largest known coral in the Solomon Islands, which is believed to be between 300 and 500 years old. If confirmed, the coral would have begun its growth during historic periods such as Genghis Khan's conquests, the rise of early Islamic states in Southeast Asia, and the signing of the Treaty of Paris. Protecting such giant coral colonies has been deemed crucial for safeguarding reefs in the Red Sea and potentially across the globe. Researchers from RSG and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) are conducting further studies to more precisely determine the coral's age and to examine its resilience to environmental stressors.
