MicroGenDX selected for 2022 Israeli space mission study

MicroGen Diagnostics , the industry leader in providing next generation DNA sequencing (NGS) for clinical diagnostics, has been selected for a study evaluating the impact of space travel on the human urinary microbiome. The research will be conducted during the 2022 Israeli Rakia Space Mission to the International Space station (ISS). MicroGenDX will use both its 16s and its full genomic sequencing in the study.

“We’re honored and excited to be part of this study to evaluate the impact of space travel on the urinary microbiome,” says Rick Martin, CEO of MicroGenDX. “MicroGenDX is uniquely qualified to provide this data for analysis that could be the basis for future solutions to astronaut medical care. This work will help shape the future of long-term space missions — including the multi-year Mars mission.”

According to current research, the frequency and severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs) can increase for astronauts during space travel. Microgravity, changes in the urinary microbiome, immune system dysregulation, urinary retention and other consequences of space travel appear to have an impact on the incidence, severity, and treatment of UTIs. This urinary microbiome study will provide a critical opportunity to better understand these factors.

Paul H. Chung, M.D., assistant professor of urology at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Penn., will lead the team of university and medical researchers from multiple countries in evaluating the data processed by MicroGenDX. The team includes Javad Parvizi, M.D. and Emanuele Chisari, M.D. from Rothman Orthopedics, Thomas Jefferson University; Ben Boursi, M.D., from Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Caleb Philips, Ph.D. from Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Tex., and J. Curtis Nickel, Ph.D., from Queens University, Kingston Ontario, Canada. PR Newswire