Methanogens and what they tell us about how life might survive on Mars.

Abstract

Space exploration and research are uncovering the potential for terrestrial life to survive in outer space, as well as the environmental factors that affect life during interplanetary transfer. The presence of methane in the Martian atmosphere suggests the possibility of methanogens, either extant or extinct, on Mars. Understanding how methanogens survive and adapt under space-exposed conditions is crucial for understanding the implications of extraterrestrial life. In this article, we discuss methanogens as model organisms for obtaining energy transducers and producing methane in a simulated Martian environment. We also explore the chemical evolution of cellular composition and growth maintenance to support survival in extraterrestrial environments. Neutral selective pressure is imposed on the chemical composition of cellular components to increase cell survival and reduce growth under physiological conditions. Energy limitation is an evolutionary driver of macromolecular polymerization, growth maintenance, and survival fitness of methanogens. Methanogens grown in a Martian environment may exhibit global alterations in their metabolic function and gene expression at the system scale. A space systems biology approach would further elucidate molecular survival mechanisms and adaptation to a drastic outer space environment. Therefore, identifying a genetically stable methanogenic community is essential for biomethane production from waste recycling to achieve sustainable space-life support functions.