We propose to evaluate whether the human urinary microbiome is altered in space. Potential alterations may increase the risk of urinary symptoms and illness during space travel. Urinary retention and urinary tract infections have afflicted astronauts during prior missions. We will collect urine samples from astronauts before, during, and after space travel and evaluate the urinary microbiome utilizing 16s ribosomal DNA and shotgun next-generation sequencing techniques. Urinary symptoms will also be screened using validated questionnaires. The findings of this clinically impactful, feasible, and cost-effective study will be important to astronauts and future space travelers.

team:

PI: Paul H. Chung, MD, Department of Urology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Javad Parvizi, MD and Emanuele Chisari, MD, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Ben Boursi, MD, Department of Oncology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel

Caleb Phillips, PhD, Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA

Curtis Nickel, MD, Department of Urology, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada