Project: Life on Mars

Constructing synthetic complex life system acclimatised to the Martian soil: Analysing complex system behaviour on the Red Planet
Objectives:

  • Create an autonomous system on Mars using a combination of mitochondria, cyanobacteria, and water-producing bacteria.
  • Acclimatising the system as per Martian gravity and atmosphere will leverage photosynthesis, respiration, and water production to maintain homeostasis and propagate on Martian soil.
Atmosphere of Mars: 
  • Carbon dioxide (CO2): 95% by volume at the surface 
  • Molecular nitrogen (N2): 2.6% 
  • Argon (Ar): 1.9% 
  • Molecular oxygen (O2): 0.16% 
  • Carbon monoxide (CO): 0.06%
Luckily, CO2 can be used as a source of energy to create low-carbon fuels and release O2 as a byproduct. However, increased O2 levels need to be utilised, such as in OxPhos if we are working in a complex system, or an extra O2 byproduct can be released to make the atmosphere more oxygenic if done in maximum affordable scalability. 

Introduction: 
We need the first sign of life, i.e. photosynthesis. For this, cyanobacteria can be used, but they need water and carbon dioxide to form the organic complex molecules that can be used for energy and release oxygen as a byproduct. Forming a complex containing glycolytic, mitochondrial enzymatic complex, and cyanobacteria will complete the reaction of life. The glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration will enhance the metabolism of complex organic molecules and form water using oxygen generated by cyanobacteria. The water required will not be sufficient to stabilise the complex system. For that, water-producing bacteria such as green sulfur bacteria or purple bacteria can be used as a part of the complex. This life-supporting complex system can be open to Martian conditions or can be a closed system. The closed system will enhance its robustness and stability; however, it will restrict the increased scalability. The open system will increase scalability but will decrease robustness, and substantial measures to support acclimatisation will need further research. However, suppose we switch to the use of biofilms or lipid bilayers produced by this complex system itself. In that case, we can acclimate the complex system on the Martian surface, particularly by adhering it to solid or immovable substratum such as Martian rocks, which are easy to acclimate. Currently, the concept is designed in less detail, which is mentioned below. Most importantly, the complex system has to be fully functional as per the Martian gravity (⅓ of Earth) and Martian atmosphere (less than 1% of Earth). 

System Design:
  • Mitochondria will provide energy through OxPhos.
  • Cyanobacteria will perform photosynthesis, producing glucose and oxygen.
  • Water-producing bacteria will supplement water needs. 
  • Genetic engineering will promote coordination and communication among strains.

Challenges and Solutions:
  • Forming a complex system:
Solution: Use genetic engineering to design genetic circuits that promote coordination and communication among the different strains.
  • Individuality among strains:
Solution: Implement quorum sensing systems, gene regulatory networks, and signalling pathways to minimise individuality and promote a unified response.
  • Interaction with the Martian environment:
Solution: Use surface attachment, biofilm formation, or encapsulated systems to balance interaction with the environment while maintaining stability.
  • Stability and propagation:
Solution: Incorporate feedback mechanisms, modular design, and evolutionary adaptation to ensure stability and propagation.
  • Energy efficiency:
Solution: Optimize energy production and consumption by leveraging mitochondria's OxPhos and cyanobacteria's photosynthesis.
  • Water availability:
Solution: Use water-producing bacteria to supplement water needs and use an external source of water if not adapted to the system.
  • Gravity and pressure:
Solution: Acclimatize the system to Martian gravity (1/3 of Earth's) and pressure (less than 1% of Earth's) through gradual exposure and adaptation.
  • Radiation protection:
Solution: Incorporate radiation-resistant materials and design the system to minimise exposure to harmful radiation. 

Additional Considerations:
  • Scalability and stability are crucial for long-term success.
  • The system must be able to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
  • Maintenance and repair mechanisms should be integrated into the design.
  • The system's energy efficiency and water usage must be optimised.

Potential Applications:
  • Analysing the behaviour of synthetic life on Martial Soil.
  • Establishment of a sustainable human presence on Mars.
  • Astrobiological research and exploration.
  • Development of novel biotechnologies and biomaterials.

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