Comparative Genomic Analysis of Klebsiella Exposed to Various Space Conditions at the International Space Station

Due to the bacteria's evolved resistance to radiation, Klebsiella poses a great threat to not only planetary protection, but also to the integrity of future biological experiments in outer space. While previous literature has shown varying degrees of sensitivity in klebsiella to a high radiation environment, not much is known about the genetic component that yields this microbial advantage. Our research objective is to pinpoint the genetic advantage some Klebsiella species acquire as they are exposed to a space-like environment through a comparison of whole genomes sequences to better control microbial contamination onboard the ISS.