AI BIOSCIENCES, INC. — National Aeronautics and Space Administration SBIR Phase I: H8

Description

AI Biosciences proposes to demonstrate the ability of a microgravity-compatible and compact device that automatically processes extracted samples for sequence library preparation inside the ISS.nbsp; This enables more samples to be analyzed by the Nanopore sequencing system onboard the ISS.nbsp; The reagents needed for library preparation are pre-filled and stored in a self-contained manner. Our system has a closed system design that will minimize spills/leakages.nbsp; This compact system will allow previously complicated, labor-intensive, and time-consuming processes to be carried out by a turn-key and closed system with minimal crew-time needed.nbsp; We have demonstrated on the ground in a laboratory setting that our simple but robust sequential injection delivery tool can perform precise fluid delivery and DNA extraction.nbsp; We will demonstrate the unit can prepare library preparation with sequencing data quality matching those manually prepared. nbsp;Professor Chris Mason of Weill Cornell Medicine will validate the library#39;s quality. The device will also undergo drop tower test to demonstrate precise fluidic movement during a brief moment of reduced gravity during drops.nbsp;nbsp;Microgravity fluid mechanicsnbsp; expert Mark Weislogel and Ryan Jenson from IRPI, LLC will assist us in the design of the library preparation device and performing drop tower tests.