Irish company Aquila Bioscience is working with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a form of 'pathogen velcro' for safer space exploration.
Traditional antimicrobial measures, while effective on Earth, present significant limitations in space due to potential toxicity, pathogen resistance, and long-term stability concerns.
The unique conditions of spaceflight elevate the risk of infectious diseases by altering both human and microbial physiology.
Aquila Bioscience, which is a spin-out company from University of Galway, say they have carried out an extensive review of International Space Station microbiome research.
That work helped them to identify key pathogens posing health risks in confined space environments.
These included viruses, bacteria and fungi that cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and skin infections.
Professor Lokesh Joshi, founder of Aquila Bioscience and Stokes Professor of Glycosciences at University of Galway, said: “Aquila Bioscience is committed to addressing the critical challenges of pathogen exposure in space.
"Our Pathogen Capturing Technology aligns with the principles of safety, sustainability and innovation that are essential for the future of space exploration.
"We are honoured to have the European Space Agency’s support as we push the boundaries of innovation.
"This collaboration underscores the importance of developing sustainable, non-toxic and effective solutions for challenges associated with space exploration.”
Aquila Bioscience has had to consider a number of factors when creating their Pathogen Capturing Technology (PCT).
Unlike traditional antimicrobials that may lead to pathogen mutations, sterilisation tolerance, or antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Aquila say their technology provides "a safe, effective and eco-friendly alternative that is stable over long periods".
Professor Joshi said: “The deployment of our pathogen control technology in space missions has the potential to revolutionise decontamination protocols, enhancing the safety and well-being of astronauts while supporting sustainable and responsible space exploration.”
Aquila Bioscience’s say they are using natural protein-carbohydrate molecules on a biodegradable matric that act as molecular-Velcro, to capture and remove harmful pathogens without damaging human skin or surfaces.
The PCT’s biodegradable composition also addresses critical spaceflight constraints such as payload weight and waste management, ensuring its suitability for long-duration missions.
The solution the company says has been inspired by how nature protects humans from germs encountered on a regular basis.
It is also offering a non-toxic alternative to conventional decontamination agents like alcohol, bleach, and ammonium compounds, which are often unsuitable for skin use due to their harshness and potential toxicity.
