Yeast survives Martian conditions

Researchers demonstrated that the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae can survive harsh Martian conditions, raising possibilities for life on Mars and its potential for future exploration.

• In experiments, yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae was shown to withstand Martian-like conditions, including shock waves from impact events and destabilizing soil perchlorates.
• The study involved exposing yeast to simulated Martian environments, highlighting its resilience against oxidizing salts that disrupt hydrogen bonds essential for life.
• Purusharth I. Rajyaguru and colleagues conducted this research to better understand how organisms might adapt to extreme extraterrestrial environments, paving the way for astrobiology.
• Martian conditions tested included high levels of salt (chemistry) and shock wave impacts, crucial factors in assessing the viability of life forms on the planet.