Researchers analyze antibiotic resistant bacteria found in ISS

Researchers from Caltech studied bacteria from the ISS space toilet and exercise platform. They found five strains resistant to common antibiotics like penicillin, rifampin, and cephazolin. The microbes are a type of Enterobacter, which can cause diseases in newborns and those with weak immune systems. The study, published in BMC Microbiology, indicates a 79% chance these bacteria could be pathogenic to humans.

What was the primary focus of the study conducted by the California Institute of Technology on the ISS?

• The resistance of bacteria to antibiotics

• The impact of space travel on human health

• The development of new antibiotics

• The growth rate of plants in space

Which type of bacterium was identified in the ISS study?

• Escherichia coli

• Enterobacter

• Staphylococcus

• Bacillus

What is a known risk associated with Enterobacter bacteria?

• Causing respiratory issues

• Causing food poisoning

• Causing skin infections

• Causing diseases in newborns and those with weak immune systems

What is the likelihood that the bacteria found on the ISS could cause disease in humans?

• 50%

• 90%

• 60%

• 79%

In which journal was the study on ISS bacteria published?

• Nature

• Science

• The Lancet

• BMC Microbiology