jsc2025e007257

jsc2025e007257 (2/14/2025) --- A preflight view of the Fluid Processing Apparatus (FPAs) used in the Polaris Bioremediation Science Experiment - Genetic Exchange in Microgravity for Biofilm Bioremediation (GEM-B2) investigation. Image courtesy of BioServe. Polaris Bioremediation Science Experiment - Genetic Exchange in Microgravity for Biofilm Bioremediation (GEM-B2) assesses genetic information from biofilms and evaluates gene transfer techniques in microgravity. Biofilms, communities of adhered microorganisms, can clog and foul water systems on crewed exploration missions, and some are resistant to treatment by antibiotics. Developing techniques to transfer specific genes that interfere with biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance could help mitigate the risk of biofilm formation on future missions.