AlloSource, one of the nation’s largest providers of skin, bone and soft tissue allografts for use in surgical procedures and the world’s largest processor of cellular bone allografts, worked with NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) on microbial research that could help improve medical care for astronauts in space.  

AlloSource collaborated with NASA and JPL scientists on a study to characterize the effects of zero gravity on antibiotic resistant genes in microorganisms taken from the International Space Station (ISS).  In this role, AlloSource assisted in describing antimicrobial capabilities of microbes isolated from the ISS. 

The study, titled Targeted Amplification of Antibiotic Resistant Genes Associated with the International Space Station Environment, investigates the impact of zero gravity on microbes by looking at the change in resistance over time compared to similar strains on earth. The ongoing project will help NASA and JPL scientists and medical staff to more efficiently prescribe antibiotics on the ISS.

In addition to participating in the study, AlloSource continues to leverage technologies developed by NASA and JPL for assembly and launch operations of various Mars missions – specifically, rapid molecular microbial burden measurement and genetic inventory cataloging – to advance microbial research in tissue processing.

“This work with NASA and JPL on microbial research efforts aligns with our commitment to improve processes at AlloSource in order to fully maximize the gift of tissue donation,” said Dr. Peter Stevens, PhD, AlloSource Vice President of Development and Growth.

AlloSource will use the research on microbiological testing methods to look for new ways to rapidly detect the presence of microorganisms to benefit allograft availability for patients.

About AlloSource 

AlloSource is one of the largest nonprofit cellular and tissue networks in the country, offering more than 200 types of precise cartilage, cellular, bone, skin and soft-tissue allografts to advance patient healing. For more than 20 years, AlloSource’s products have bridged the proven science of allografts with the advanced technology of cells, offering life-saving and life-enhancing possibilities in spine, sports medicine, foot and ankle, orthopedic, reconstructive, trauma and wound care procedures. As the world’s largest processor of cellular bone allografts, fresh cartilage tissue for joint repair and skin allografts to help heal severe burns, AlloSource delivers unparalleled expertise and service to its growing network of surgeons, partners, and the country’s most reputable organ procurement organizations. The company is accredited by the American Association of Tissue Banks and is headquartered in Centennial, CO. For more information, please visit allosource.org or our educational website, allograftpossibilities.org.