Microbial continuous evolution experiment device for space environment and control method

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of space experiment, and provides a microorganism continuous evolution experiment device and control method for a space environment, the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device comprises at least two levels of experiment units; the experiment unit comprises a culture assembly and a liquid supply assembly, the culture assembly comprises a microorganism culture area and a reaction liquid bound permeation area, the reaction liquid bound permeation area is wrapped outside the microorganism culture area and is communicated with the microorganism culture area through a permeation membrane; the liquid supply assembly is used for injecting culture liquid into the microorganism culture area and injecting reaction liquid into the reaction liquid bound permeation area; and the microorganism culture areas of the experiment units of each level are connected, and the reaction liquids of the experiment units of each level are different, so that the microorganism performs continuous evolution experiment. The present application can realize multiple rounds, continuous and directional evolution experiments of microorganisms in a space environment.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of space experiment, in particular to a microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment and a control method. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the related art, the space experiment under the existing space environment is single culture or parallel culture of multiple samples. Due to the harsh space experiment conditions, long-term culture of an experimental unit cannot be achieved, and purposeful continuous evolution of microorganisms cannot be achieved.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a microorganism continuous evolution experiment device suitable for space environment. SUMMARY

[0004] The present application provides a microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment and a control method, which solves the defects that the existing space experiment in the related art cannot be cultured for a long time and continuously observe the evolution process of microorganisms, and realizes the multi-round, continuous and directional evolution experiment of microorganisms in the space environment. It has important theoretical basis and practical significance for studying the influence of space environment on microorganism reproduction and development and astronaut health protection.

[0005] The present application provides a microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment, comprising:

[0006] At least two levels of experimental units;

[0007] The experimental unit comprises a culture assembly and a liquid supply assembly. The culture assembly comprises a microorganism culture area and a reaction liquid bound permeation area. The reaction liquid bound permeation area is wrapped on the outside of the microorganism culture area and is in communication with the microorganism culture area through a permeation membrane. The liquid supply assembly is used to inject culture liquid into the microorganism culture area and inject reaction liquid into the reaction liquid bound permeation area.

[0008] The microorganism culture areas of the experimental units at each level are connected, and the reaction liquids of the experimental units at each level are different, so that the microorganisms can be subjected to continuous evolution experiment.

[0009] According to the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the present application, the reaction liquid bound permeation area is formed by a porous fiber structure.

[0010] According to the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the present application, the culture assembly further comprises:

[0011] A humidity display area filled with a hygroscopic color-changing material and in communication with the outside of the reaction liquid bound permeation area.

[0012] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application further comprises:

[0013] A color collector is arranged corresponding to the humidity display area and used for collecting the color of the humidity display area.

[0014] An electric control unit is electrically connected with the color collector and the liquid supply component respectively and used for controlling the injection amount of the culture solution and the injection amount of the reaction solution according to the collected color of the humidity display area.

[0015] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application further comprises:

[0016] A first heater is arranged at the bottom of the microorganism culture area.

[0017] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application further comprises:

[0018] An ultrahydrophobic observation window is arranged at the top of the microorganism culture area.

[0019] A second heater is arranged outside the ultrahydrophobic observation window.

[0020] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application further comprises:

[0021] A first liquid supply component comprises a first liquid storage device, a first pump and a first check valve connected in sequence, and the first check valve is connected with the microorganism culture area.

[0022] A second liquid supply component comprises a second liquid storage device, a second pump and a second check valve connected in sequence, and the second check valve is connected with the reaction liquid bound penetration area.

[0023] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application further comprises:

[0024] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application further comprises:

[0025] A collector is connected with the microorganism culture area of the last stage experiment unit.

[0026] The application further provides a control method of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment, which comprises:

[0027] Obtaining an evolution experiment instruction.

[0028] injection of the culture solution into the microbial culture area and injection of the reaction solution into the reaction liquid bound permeation area of each level experiment unit according to the preset multi-level reaction in response to the evolution experiment instruction, and reacting with the microorganism in the microbial culture area for a preset time length;

[0029] Wherein, after the reaction of the current level experiment unit is completed, the microorganism in the microbial culture area of the current level experiment unit is transferred to the next level experiment unit for continuous reaction until the evolution experiment is completed.

[0030] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device and control method for space environment provided by the application can realize multi-round, continuous and directional evolution experiment of microorganism in space environment, and has important theoretical basis and practical significance for studying the influence of space environment on microorganism reproduction and development and astronaut health protection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the application or the related art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings needed to be used in the embodiments or the related art description. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are some embodiments of the application, and other drawings can also be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative labor.

[0032] Figure 1 is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application;

[0033] Figure 2 is the second structural schematic diagram of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application.

[0034] Reference signs:

[0035] 100: experiment unit; 101: microbial culture area; 102: reaction liquid bound permeation area;

[0036] 103: permeation membrane; 104: humidity display area; 105: first liquid storage device;

[0037] 106: first pump; 107: first check valve; 108: second liquid storage device;

[0038] 109: second pump; 110: second check valve; 111: shell;

[0039] 200: electric control unit; 300: bearing platform; 400: transfer pipeline; 500: collector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] In order to make the objects, technical solutions and advantages of the present application clearer, the following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the present application with reference to the drawings in the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. Based upon the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those ordinarily skilled in the art without creative effort belong to the scope of the present application.

[0041] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that the terms "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer" and the like indicate the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the purpose of facilitating the description of the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a particular orientation, be constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the embodiments of the present application. In addition, the terms "first", "second" and the like are only for the purpose of description and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected", "connected" should be understood broadly, for example, it can be fixedly connected, or it can be detachably connected, or integrally connected; it can be mechanically connected, or it can be electrically connected; it can be directly connected, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] In the description of the present application, the description of the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In the present application, the illustrative description of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in the present application and the features of the different embodiments or examples without contradiction.

[0044] According to the embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, with reference to Figure 1 The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the present application mainly comprises: at least two levels of experimental units 100; each level of experimental unit 100 comprises two parts of a culture assembly and a liquid supply assembly.

[0045] The culture assembly comprises a microorganism culture area 101, a reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102 and a permeation membrane 103, the microorganism culture area 101 is provided with microorganisms and is used for culturing the microorganisms, the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102 is mainly used for binding the reaction liquid and ensuring permeation, so that the reaction liquid can permeate to the microorganism culture area 101 through the permeation membrane 103; the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102 is wrapped outside the microorganism culture area 101 and is communicated with the microorganism culture area 101 through the permeation membrane 103, that is, the permeation membrane 103 is located between the microorganism culture area 101 and the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102. This design can effectively prevent liquid from floating in the space environment and ensure stable contact between the reaction liquid and the microorganisms.

[0046] The liquid supply assembly is used for injecting culture liquid into the microorganism culture area 101 and injecting reaction liquid into the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102; when the reaction liquid is injected into the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102, the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102 can effectively bind the floating reaction liquid, and after binding a certain amount of reaction liquid, the excess reaction liquid can permeate the area and diffuse to the microorganism culture area 101 through the permeation membrane 103, contact the microorganisms in the microorganism culture area 101, induce various reaction changes and simulate the adaptive evolution process of the microorganisms under different environmental conditions.

[0047] The microorganism culture areas 101 of the experimental units 100 at all levels are connected, and the reaction liquids of the experimental units 100 at all levels are different. This design enables the microorganisms to continuously perform multiple rounds of evolution experiments under different environmental conditions, so that the evolution law and adaptation mechanism of the microorganisms in a complex environment can be more deeply studied.

[0048] The microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for a space environment provided by the embodiment of the application solves the problem that the existing space experiment cannot culture and observe the evolution of microorganisms for a long time and continuously, can realize multiple rounds of continuous and directional evolution experiments of microorganisms in a space environment, ensures that different reaction liquids of the experimental units at all levels do not interfere with each other, thereby improving the accuracy of the experiment, and has important theoretical basis and practical significance for studying the influence of a space environment on the reproduction and development of organisms (including microorganisms) and the health protection of astronauts.

[0049] According to an embodiment of the application, the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102 is formed by a porous fiber structure.

[0050] In this embodiment of the application, the reaction liquid binding and permeation area 102 adopts a porous fiber structure design, and this design detail at least has the following characteristics:

[0051] 1. Liquid control: the porous fiber structure can effectively physically bind the reaction liquid, prevent the reaction liquid from floating in the space environment under microgravity or weightlessness, and ensure the stability and controllability of the experiment.

[0052] 2. Osmotic regulation: The porosity and pore size of the porous fiber material can be adjusted, which helps to accurately control the speed and flow of the reaction liquid diffusing through the osmotic membrane 103 to the microbial culture area 101, ensuring the dynamic balance between the microorganisms and the reaction liquid, thereby achieving fine regulation of the microbial growth environment.

[0053] 3. Increase contact area: The porous fiber structure improves the diffusion range of the reaction liquid, thereby increasing the contact area with the microbial culture area 101, which is beneficial to improve the reaction efficiency and promote the response and adaptability of microorganisms to different reaction conditions.

[0054] 4. Biocompatibility: The use of biocompatible porous fiber materials can also avoid adverse effects on microorganisms, providing a relatively natural and suitable environment for the survival and evolution of microorganisms.

[0055] Therefore, the embodiment of the present application uses a porous fiber structure as the design of the reaction liquid confinement permeation area 102, which not only realizes the effective management of the reaction liquid under space conditions, but also further optimizes the effect of the microbial continuous evolution experiment.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present application, the osmotic membrane 103 is preferably a semi-permeable membrane.

[0057] Specifically, the semi-permeable membrane has a certain pore size and selective permeability, allowing molecules or ions below a certain particle size to pass through, while macromolecules or microorganisms cannot pass through. In the microbial continuous evolution experiment device, the semi-permeable membrane can ensure that the nutrient components, metabolic products, and other small molecular substances in the reaction liquid can effectively contact the microorganisms in the microbial culture area 101, while preventing the microorganisms from directly entering the reaction liquid confinement permeation area 102.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the culture assembly further includes a humidity display area 104, which is filled with a hygroscopic color-changing material and is located outside and in communication with the reaction liquid confinement permeation area 102. The hygroscopic color-changing material may, for example, be color-changing silica gel or the like.

[0059] In this embodiment of the present application, the humidity display area 104 of the culture assembly is located outside and in communication with the reaction liquid confinement permeation area 102. This design at least has the following functions:

[0060] 1. Moisture monitoring: The color-changing silica gel is a hygroscopic material that absorbs liquid (such as water vapor evaporated from excess reaction liquid in the reaction liquid beam constraint permeation zone 102 or spilled liquid) when it diffuses into the humidity display area 104. Since the color-changing silica gel changes color when it comes into contact with water, the presence of excess moisture and its distribution can be visually determined by observing its color state.

[0061] 2. Experimental control and calibration: By monitoring the color change of the color-changing silica gel, researchers can quickly determine whether the liquid injected into the device is appropriate, whether there is leakage or excessive evaporation, and make timely adjustments to the liquid supply strategy or make appropriate experimental operation corrections.

[0062] 3. Enhanced safety: In a space environment, excess moisture can cause damage to experimental equipment or affect the stability of the microbial growth environment if not controlled. The presence of the humidity display area 104 can act as a safety barrier to ensure that the internal environment of the experimental unit 100 maintains appropriate humidity conditions.

[0063] 4. Real-time feedback: Compared to traditional humidity sensors, the present application is simpler and more intuitive, without the need for complex circuit structures. The color-changing silica gel provides a method for real-time monitoring and recording of liquid dynamics in a microgravity environment on a space station without the need for complex instruments, which helps to improve the efficiency and accuracy of space experiments.

[0064] Therefore, the embodiment of the present application enhances the automated monitoring capability and fine control capability of the experimental conditions of the space environment microbial continuous evolution experiment device by adding the humidity display area 104, which has significant significance for optimizing space life science experiments.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1 the experimental device further comprises a color collector and an electronic control unit 200, the color collector is arranged corresponding to the humidity display area 104, and the color collector is used to collect the color of the humidity display area 104; the electronic control unit 200 is electrically connected with the color collector and the liquid supply assembly respectively, and is used to control the injection amount of the culture liquid and the injection amount of the reaction liquid according to the collected color of the humidity display area 104.

[0066] In this embodiment of the present application, the experimental device further integrates the color collector and the electronic control unit 200, which enhances the automatic control and real-time feedback capability of the experimental conditions. Specifically:

[0067] 1. Color collector: Corresponding to the humidity display area 104, it can accurately capture and record the color change process of the color-changing silica gel due to water absorption. Through color recognition technology, the color information is converted into digital signals.

[0068] 2. Electronic control unit: As the core control system, it is not only connected with the color collector for receiving and processing color data, but also electrically connected with the liquid supply component to realize accurate control of the injection amount of culture solution and reaction solution. When the color collector detects that the color change of the humidity display area 104 reaches the preset threshold, it indicates that the liquid balance state in the reaction liquid bound permeation area 102 has changed.

[0069] 3. Dynamic adjustment of injection amount: Based on the collected color information, the electronic control unit 200 can adjust the injection strategy accordingly to ensure that the amount of reaction solution actually participating in the reaction is maintained within a suitable range to meet the needs of microbial growth and avoid problems such as liquid loss or uneven distribution caused by special space environment.

[0070] 4. Closed-loop control system: The entire system constitutes a closed-loop feedback mechanism, which indirectly reflects the internal humidity condition by monitoring the color change of the color-changing silica gel, and makes corresponding automatic adjustments accordingly, greatly improving the automation level and accuracy of the microbial continuous evolution experiment in space environment.

[0071] For example, one humidity display area 104 is provided, and the humidity display area 104 is annular and arranged outside the reaction liquid bound permeation area 102, and the humidity display area 104 is uniformly spaced with multiple color collectors.

[0072] This example is a single-ring humidity display area and multiple color collector layout design: a ring-shaped humidity display area 104 is designed to surround the outside of the reaction liquid bound permeation area 102. The annular humidity display area 104 is uniformly spaced with multiple color collectors. In this way, information about the color change of the color-changing silica gel can be obtained from different angles and positions, thereby comprehensively and accurately reflecting the humidity distribution condition in the entire device. Through comprehensive analysis of the data of multiple color collectors, the electronic control unit 200 can more accurately control the injection amount of the liquid supply component.

[0073] For example, multiple humidity display areas 104 are provided, and multiple humidity display areas 104 are uniformly spaced and arranged outside the reaction liquid bound permeation area 102, and each humidity display area 104 is provided with a corresponding color collector.

[0074] This example is a multiple-ring humidity display area and color collector corresponding layout design: multiple humidity display areas 104 are provided, and these humidity display areas 104 are uniformly spaced and arranged outside the reaction liquid bound permeation area 102, and each humidity display area 104 is provided with a corresponding color collector. This configuration can achieve more detailed spatial segmentation monitoring, which is conducive to identifying and correcting local areas that may have uneven water distribution, and further helps to improve the accuracy and flexibility of the overall experimental device for regulating the growth environment of microorganisms.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the present application, the culture assembly further comprises: a first heater, which is arranged at the bottom of the microbial culture area 101.

[0076] In this embodiment of the present application, in order to accurately control the temperature of the microbial culture area 101, a first heater is additionally arranged in the culture assembly. The first heater is usually designed in the form of a heating sheet and is directly attached to the bottom of the microbial culture area 101 to ensure that heat can be uniformly and effectively transmitted to the inside of the microbial culture area 101.

[0077] And by being electrically connected with the electric control unit 200, the first heater can receive the instructions issued by the electric control unit 200 and perform intelligent temperature control operation. The electric control unit 200 adjusts the working state (such as power size, on-off state, etc.) of the heater according to the preset temperature program or the real-time collected temperature data, so as to maintain the temperature of the microbial culture area 101 within a specific range required by the experiment. This design helps to provide a stable temperature environment and accurately control the growth and evolution process of microorganisms, further improving the success rate of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment in the space environment and the reliability of the experimental data.

[0078] According to an embodiment of the present application, the culture assembly further comprises: a super-hydrophobic observation window and a second heater, the super-hydrophobic observation window is arranged at the top of the microbial culture area 101, and the second heater is arranged outside the super-hydrophobic observation window and is electrically connected with the electric control unit 200.

[0079] Specifically, an observation window made of super-hydrophobic material is arranged at the top of the microbial culture area 101. The super-hydrophobic material has very low surface energy, so that water and other liquids are difficult to form droplets or adhere on its surface, thus the transparency of the observation window can be maintained, and researchers can clearly observe the inside of the microbial culture area 101 without being affected by fog or other liquids.

[0080] In order to ensure that there is no significant temperature difference between the microbial culture area 101 and the external environment, and to avoid condensation caused by temperature difference, a second heater is designed, which can be a heating sheet and is attached outside the super-hydrophobic observation window. In this way, the internal experimental environment will not be directly affected, and the fog caused by the temperature difference between the inside and outside can be effectively prevented from interfering with the observation effect.

[0081] And the second heater is also electrically connected with the electric control unit 200 and can intelligently control the working state to maintain the constant temperature of the microbial culture area 101 and its surrounding environment, so as to optimize the observation conditions and ensure the accuracy and reliability of the experimental data acquisition in the space environment.

[0082] According to an embodiment of the present application, with reference to Figure 1As shown, the liquid supply assembly includes a first liquid supply assembly and a second liquid supply assembly. The first liquid supply assembly includes a first liquid storage device 105, a first pump 106, and a first check valve 107 connected in sequence, and the first check valve 107 is connected to the microbial culture area 101. The second liquid supply assembly includes a second liquid storage device 108, a second pump 109, and a second check valve 110 connected in sequence, and the second check valve 110 is connected to the reaction liquid binding penetration area 102. The first pump 106 and the second pump 109 are electrically connected to the electronic control unit 200.

[0083] In this embodiment of the present application, the liquid supply assembly is designed as a double-path independent liquid supply system, including a first liquid supply assembly and a second liquid supply assembly, specifically:

[0084] 1. The first liquid supply assembly:

[0085] The first liquid storage device 105 can be a liquid storage bag, used to store the culture solution required by the microorganism, ensuring sufficient liquid supply during the experiment.

[0086] The first pump 106 is connected after the first liquid storage device 105, and its function is to extract the culture solution from the first liquid storage device 105 and deliver it to the microbial culture area 101. Through the control of the electronic control unit 200, the working speed and flow of the pump can be accurately adjusted, so as to realize the fine management of the growth environment of the microorganism.

[0087] The first check valve 107 is installed between the first pump 106 and the microbial culture area 101, preventing the liquid from flowing backward after stopping the liquid supply or for other reasons, and ensuring that the culture solution only flows in one direction (i.e., into the microbial culture area 101).

[0088] 2. The second liquid supply assembly:

[0089] The second liquid storage device 108 can be a liquid storage bag, used to store different kinds or conditions of reaction liquid, such as screening liquid of antibiotics, to adapt to the specific reaction conditions required by each experimental unit 100 in the continuous evolution experiment.

[0090] The second pump 109, similar to the first pump 106, is responsible for extracting the reaction liquid from the second liquid storage device 108 and delivering it to the reaction liquid binding penetration area 102.

[0091] The second check valve 110 is provided at the connection between the second pump 109 and the reaction liquid binding penetration area 102, ensuring one-way flow of the reaction liquid and avoiding backflow to the liquid storage device.

[0092] 3. The electric control unit 200 is integrated: the first pump 106 and the second pump 109 are electrically connected with the electric control unit 200, the whole liquid supply process can be monitored and regulated in real time by the automatic electric control unit 200, the liquid supply speed, sequence and flow are adjusted according to the preset program or the data feedback of the field collector, and the accurate execution of the experimental process and the smooth progress of the continuous evolution of microorganisms are ensured.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1 each experimental unit 100 further comprises a sealed shell 111, the culture assembly and the first liquid supply assembly are arranged in the shell 111, the second liquid supply assembly is arranged outside the shell 111, and the first liquid supply assembly and the second liquid supply assembly are respectively located at the upper and lower ends of the culture assembly.

[0094] Specifically, each independent experimental unit 100 is designed to contain a sealed shell 111 structure. The culture assembly and the first liquid supply assembly are integrated in this sealed shell 111, which provides a space for microorganism growth and continuous evolution experiment; the second liquid supply assembly is arranged outside the shell 111, which is designed for space utilization efficiency or maintenance convenience, so that the process of injecting reaction liquid does not affect the stable environment of the microorganism culture area 101, and also facilitates the monitoring and adjustment of the external equipment by the operator.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1 the experimental device of the present application further comprises a bearing platform 300, each level of experimental unit 100 can be installed on the bearing platform 300 through a mounting bracket, and the bearing platform 300 mainly provides structural support, external interface and sealing function of the whole device.

[0096] Specifically, the bearing platform 300 provides a basic physical support structure for the whole experimental device, ensuring the stability and safety of each level of experimental unit 100 in the space environment. Since the space environment is in a state of zero gravity or microgravity, the bearing platform 300 has sufficient strength and stability to cope with various mechanical conditions of the space environment.

[0097] Each level of experimental unit 100 can be conveniently connected and separated with the bearing platform 300 through a mounting bracket, and this modular design makes the equipment more flexible in assembly, maintenance and replacement of experimental units 100, which adapts to the limited space resources in the space station and the operation needs of the researchers.

[0098] The bearing platform 300 can also integrate various external communication interfaces, data transmission ports, power interfaces, etc. These interfaces are used to connect the experimental device with other systems (such as life support system, data processing system, control system), realize information exchange and energy supply functions, etc.

[0099] In view of the characteristics of the space environment, the bearing platform 300 also has good sealing performance, which protects the microbial culture environment inside the experimental unit 100 from being polluted by the external environment, and also prevents the substances generated during the experiment from escaping to affect other facilities and personnel safety in the space cabin.

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1 As shown, the microbial culture areas 101 of the adjacent two-stage experimental units 100 are connected through the transfer pipeline 400, and a third pump is arranged in the transfer pipeline 400, and the third pump is electrically connected with the electric control unit 200.

[0101] In this embodiment of the present application, the modularization and automation design of the microbial continuous evolution experiment device are further deepened, specifically:

[0102] The microbial culture areas 101 of the adjacent two-stage experimental units 100 are connected with each other through the transfer pipeline 400. This design aims to realize sample transfer in the process of microbial continuous culture and evolution under different conditions. Specifically, after the culture of the first-stage experimental unit 100 is completed, the microbial sample can be automatically transferred to the next-stage experimental unit 100 through the transfer pipeline 400 for subsequent culture and evolution.

[0103] In order to realize this automatic operation, a third pump is arranged on the transfer pipeline 400. The third pump is controlled by the electric control unit 200, and is started according to the preset program or real-time instruction to safely and accurately suck the microbial sample that has adapted to the current environmental conditions and has undergone certain evolution in the previous-stage experimental unit 100 and send it to the next-stage experimental unit 100 through the transfer pipeline 400, thereby realizing the continuous, directional and sterile transfer of the microbial sample under different experimental conditions, and greatly improving the efficiency and reliability of the microbial continuous evolution experiment in the space environment.

[0104] According to one embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 1 As shown, the experimental device further comprises a collector 500, which is connected to the microbial culture area 101 of the last-stage experimental unit 100 through the transfer pipeline 400, and a third pump is also arranged in the transfer pipeline 400.

[0105] In this embodiment of the present application, in order to collect the microbial sample at the end of the continuous evolution experiment or at a specific stage, a collector 500 is additionally arranged. The collector 500 is connected to the microbial culture area 101 of the last-stage experimental unit 100 of the entire experimental device through the transfer pipeline 400.

[0106] Specifically, after the evolutionary culture of microorganisms is completed in the final experimental unit 100, or at a preset time point in the experimental process, the third pump will start working to extract the microbial samples that have undergone multiple rounds of adaptation and evolution under different conditions from the final microbial culture area 101 and transfer them through the transfer pipeline 400 to the collector 500 for safe storage and subsequent analysis.

[0107] This design ensures that after the entire continuous evolutionary process is completed, researchers can accurately obtain representative microbial samples for further biological research, such as genomic analysis and metabolite detection, to reveal the adaptation mechanisms and evolutionary patterns of microorganisms in the space environment, as well as their potential impact on astronaut health and life support systems.

[0108] It is understood that the multi-level experimental units 100 of the present invention can be freely combined, either in series or in parallel.

[0109] For example, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the multi-level experimental units 100 can be connected in series sequentially. This design allows microbial samples to automatically flow into the next level of experimental unit 100 after adapting and evolving in the first level, thus continuously undergoing multiple rounds of directed evolution in different culture environments. Each level of experimental unit 100 can provide unique reaction solution conditions to simulate the complex environmental changes faced by organisms in space.

[0110] For example, refer to Figure 2 As shown, the primary experimental unit 100 can simultaneously connect multiple parallel experimental paths, and each experimental path has multiple series experimental units 100. That is, the microbial sample after the reaction in the primary experimental unit 100 can be assigned to different experimental paths, and undergo different sequences and types of reaction conditions in the series experimental units 100 on each path.

[0111] For example, suppose the primary experimental unit 100 generates three different subsets of microorganisms, each of which can enter three parallel experimental pathways. Each experimental pathway includes several cascaded experimental units 100, each providing different culture environments or reaction conditions. This design allows for parallel exploration of multiple possible microbial evolutionary pathways within the same timeframe, significantly improving research efficiency and data diversity, and contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the adaptive evolutionary mechanisms of microorganisms in space environments.

[0112] In summary, this invention not only enables automated experiments on the continuous and directed evolution of microorganisms in a space environment, but also allows for flexible adjustment of the combination of experimental units according to research needs, greatly improving research efficiency and applicability.

[0113] The working principle of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application is described below in combination with a specific example, which generally includes the following steps:

[0114] (1) Install the experiment unit 100 at the corresponding position of the bearing platform 300, connect the transfer pipeline 400 and the circuit interface and other components, and complete the assembly;

[0115] (2) The microorganism is added in advance to the microorganism culture area 101 of the experiment unit 100;

[0116] (3) Start the first pump 106 to inject the culture solution from the first liquid storage device 105 into the microorganism culture area 101, and start the first heater to start temperature control;

[0117] (4) Start the second heater at the same time to ensure that there is no temperature difference between the super-hydrophobic observation window and the microorganism culture area 101, and reduce the mist;

[0118] (5) Start the second pump 109 to inject the screening liquid (such as an antibiotic) from the second liquid storage device 108 into the porous fiber of the reaction liquid bound penetration area 102, the porous fiber can effectively bind the floating liquid, and the excess liquid in the porous fiber can diffuse to the microorganism culture area 101 through the semi-permeable membrane, slowly contact the microorganism, and cause various changes of the microorganism;

[0119] (6) The excess liquid in the porous fiber will diffuse to the humidity display area 104 and be absorbed, causing a color change, which facilitates direct observation of the liquid injection amount and distribution condition;

[0120] (7) After a certain period of reaction, the microorganism sample in the microorganism culture area 101 is transferred to the next experiment unit 100 by the third pump, and a new round of reaction is started;

[0121] (8) After a preset multi-stage reaction, the final sample is collected in the collector 500.

[0122] The control method of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment provided by the application is described below, and the control method described below can be referred to in combination with the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment described above.

[0123] According to the embodiment of the second aspect of the application, the application also provides a control method of the microorganism continuous evolution experiment device for space environment of the above-mentioned embodiment, mainly including the following steps:

[0124] Obtain the evolution experiment instruction;

[0125] In response to the evolution experiment instruction, the liquid supply assembly of each level experiment unit 100 is controlled in sequence to inject culture solution into the microbial culture area 101 and to inject reaction liquid into the reaction liquid bound penetration area 102 according to a preset multi-stage reaction, and the microorganisms in the microbial culture area 101 react with the microorganisms for a preset time length;

[0126] After the reaction of the current level experiment unit 100 is completed, the microorganisms in the microbial culture area 101 of the current level experiment unit 100 are transferred to the next level experiment unit 100 for continuous reaction until the evolution experiment is completed.

[0127] Specifically, it includes:

[0128] 1. Obtain the evolution experiment instruction:

[0129] The experiment operator or the automatic control system sends an instruction to start the continuous evolution of microorganisms to the electric control unit 200, and the instruction contains detailed parameters and sequences of the entire experiment process.

[0130] 2. Respond to the instruction and control the liquid supply assembly:

[0131] According to the preset multi-stage reaction scheme, the electric control unit 200 controls the liquid supply assembly of each level experiment unit 100 in sequence. The first liquid supply assembly injects suitable culture solution into the microbial culture area 101 to ensure the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. The second liquid supply assembly injects reaction liquid of different conditions into the reaction liquid bound penetration area 102, which is in contact with the microorganisms after bound penetration and induces the microorganisms to adapt to changes.

[0132] 3. Set and monitor the reaction time length:

[0133] The microorganisms in each level experiment unit 100 react under specific reaction liquid conditions for a preset time length, during which the electric control unit 200 will monitor and adjust the related parameters (such as temperature, humidity, etc.) in real time to maintain an ideal experimental environment.

[0134] 4. Microorganism transfer process:

[0135] If the microorganisms in the current level experiment unit 100 complete the predetermined evolution reaction, the third pump will start according to the pre-set program, and the microorganism sample will be transferred to the next level experiment unit 100 through the transfer pipeline 400 to continue the subsequent adaptation and evolution.

[0136] 5. Cycle until the experiment ends:

[0137] The process progresses level by level until all levels of experiment units 100 complete their respective tasks, and finally realizes the continuous and directional evolution of microorganisms in various simulated space environment conditions.

[0138] The control method provided by the embodiment of the application ensures that the microorganisms can perform the microorganism continuous evolution experiment under different environmental gradients, effectively reduces the degree of human intervention, and improves the accuracy and reliability of the microorganism research in the space environment.

[0139] Finally, it should be noted that: the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, but not to limit them; although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that: it can still modify the technical solutions recorded in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent replacement for part of the technical features; and these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A microbial continuous evolution experimental device for use in a space environment, characterized in that, include: At least two levels of experimental units; The experimental unit includes a culture component and a liquid supply component. The culture component includes a microbial culture zone and a reaction solution binding and permeation zone. The reaction solution binding and permeation zone covers the outside of the microbial culture zone and is connected to the microbial culture zone through a permeation membrane. The liquid supply component is used to inject culture medium into the microbial culture zone and to inject reaction medium into the reaction solution binding and permeation zone. Furthermore, the microbial culture areas of each experimental unit are connected, and the reaction solutions of each experimental unit are different, so as to enable microorganisms to carry out continuous evolution experiments; The reaction liquid binding and permeation zone is formed by a porous fiber structure; The culture component also includes: A humidity display area, filled with a hygroscopic and color-changing material, is connected to the outside of the reaction liquid binding and permeation area; the experimental apparatus also includes: A color sensor is configured corresponding to the humidity display area and is used to collect the color of the humidity display area. An electronic control unit is electrically connected to the color sensor and the liquid supply assembly, respectively, and is used to control the injection volume of the culture medium and the injection volume of the reaction solution based on the color of the collected humidity display area. The liquid supply assembly includes: The first liquid supply assembly includes a first liquid storage device, a first pump, and a first check valve connected in sequence, and the first check valve is connected to the microbial culture area; The second liquid supply assembly includes a second liquid storage device, a second pump, and a second check valve connected in sequence, with the second check valve connected to the reaction liquid confinement and permeation zone.

2. The experimental apparatus for continuous evolution of microorganisms in a space environment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The culture component also includes: The first heater is located at the bottom of the microbial culture zone.

3. The experimental apparatus for continuous evolution of microorganisms in a space environment according to claim 2, characterized in that, The culture component also includes: A superhydrophobic observation window is located at the top of the microbial culture area; The second heater is located outside the superhydrophobic observation window.

4. The experimental apparatus for continuous evolution of microorganisms in a space environment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The microbial culture areas of two adjacent experimental units are connected by transfer pipelines, and a third pump is installed in the transfer pipelines.

5. The experimental apparatus for continuous evolution of microorganisms in a space environment according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The experimental setup also includes: The collector is connected to the microbial culture area of ​​the last-level experimental unit.

6. A control method for a microbial continuous evolution experimental apparatus for a space environment according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, include: Obtain the instructions for the evolution experiment; In response to evolutionary experiment instructions, according to the preset multi-level reaction, the liquid supply components of each experimental unit are sequentially controlled to inject culture medium into the microbial culture zone and to inject reaction medium into the reaction medium binding and permeation zone, with a preset reaction time with the microorganisms in the microbial culture zone; Once the reaction in the current experimental unit is completed, the microorganisms in the microbial culture area of ​​the current experimental unit are transferred to the next experimental unit to continue the reaction until the evolution experiment is completed.

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