Genomics

Genomics is the study of an organism’s complete set of genes, known as its genome. This field focuses on understanding the structure, function, evolution, mapping, and editing of genomes. In more detail:

• Genome: A genome encompasses all the genetic material in an organism. It includes not only the genes (which code for proteins) but also the non-coding regions of DNA. Every living thing, from single-celled bacteria to complex animals like humans, has a genome.
• Genes: Within our DNA, specific sections are called genes. Humans have approximately 20,000 coding genes. These genes provide instructions for building proteins, which are essential for various biological processes. Some genes determine physical traits (like eye colour), while others influence the likelihood of developing health conditions (such as cystic fibrosis).

Genomics vs. Genetics

• Genetics: This field focuses on studying individual genes and their roles in inheritance. It examines how specific traits or conditions are passed down from one generation to the next.
• Genomics: A broader term that considers the entire genome. It looks at both coding and non-coding regions, exploring how genes are expressed and interact with each other. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing technology have made it possible to read an entire genome quickly and affordably.

Sequencing the Genome

• Reading the 3 billion letters in a human genome is a massive task. Next-generation sequencing technology allows it to be done relatively quickly and inexpensively. Sequencing the first human genome took over a decade and cost millions of pounds. Today, it can be done in around 24 hours for less than £1000.
• The data generated during genome sequencing is immense (around 200GB per person). In clinical settings, bioinformaticians, clinical scientists, and geneticists analyze this data alongside a patient’s health information to provide meaningful results.

Genomics in the Aerospace Industry

Genomics plays a crucial role in aerospace research, particularly in understanding how living organisms respond to space environments. For example:

Space Biology Program (NASA)

The Space Biology Program at NASA investigates how plants, microbes, and animals adapt to living in space. Researchers study processes like metabolism, growth, stress response, physiology, and development. They examine how organisms repair cellular damage and protect themselves from infection and disease while exposed to microgravity and space radiation. The program aims to:

• Discover biological responses to space conditions.
• Develop physiological models for space biology.
• Identify underlying mechanisms governing biological processes in space.
• Promote open science through the GeneLab Data System and Life Sciences Data Archive.
• Develop cutting-edge biological technologies for spaceflight research.
• Support human health in space by understanding mechanisms.

Notably, discoveries made in space can have implications for life on Earth, such as drug development, tissue regeneration, and crop yield enhancement.

Animal Biology in Space

• Life in space significantly impacts biology. Terrestrial organisms are not designed for space conditions.
• The Space Biology Program focuses on understanding how animals adapt to spaceflight and altered gravity.
• Animals aboard the International Space Station (ISS) experience rapid sunrises and sunsets due to their high orbital speed.
• Researchers study basic mechanisms that allow animals to adapt to these extreme conditions.

Genetic Algorithms in Aerospace Design

• While not directly related to genomics, genetic algorithms are used in aerospace design.
• These algorithms mimic natural selection and evolution to optimize complex problems, such as aircraft design, trajectory planning, and satellite deployment.
• By iteratively evolving solutions, genetic algorithms find optimal designs, considering various parameters and constraints.

Deep Space Radiation Genomics (DSRG):

• The DSRG project, part of NASA’s Artemis I mission, investigates the effects of deep space radiation on living organisms.
• Researchers analyze genomic changes caused by radiation exposure during extended space missions.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for protecting astronauts during future lunar and Mars missions.

In summary, genomics and related research contribute to safer and more effective space exploration, as well as advancements in medicine and agriculture on Earth.