Nicholas Lusardi
Research Mentor: Tina Lasisi
Mentor Department: Anthropology, LSA
Author(s): Nicholas Lusardi, Tina Lasisi
Session: Session 2 (10:00 AM – 10:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 100
Abstract
Exposure to ionizing space radiation is a major limiting factor for long-duration human spaceflight, increasing risks of cancer, neurological damage, and degenerative tissue effects. Conventional spacecraft shielding is constrained by weight limits and limited effectiveness against high-energy space radiation, motivating the development of alternative radiation-protective materials. Melanin, a biopolymer produced in high concentrations by melanized fungi that thrive in extremely radioactive environments, has demonstrated radiation-attenuating and radioprotective properties, suggesting potential application as a biologically based radiation counteractant. This project investigates the feasibility of using melanin derived from fungi as a radiation-protectant material to be utilized in long-duration space missions. Rather than utilizing live fungal cultures, this study focuses on fungal-derived melanin as a radiation-protective material through literature-based analysis. Published data on melanin extraction, synthesis, and incorporation into composite materials will be compiled to evaluate reported radiation attenuation properties and material performance. Additionally, this project will analyze the relationship between melanin concentration and reported radioprotective performance to evaluate whether melanin can feasibly act as a primary driver of shielding effectiveness. These results will be compared to conventional spacecraft shielding materials to assess the relative feasibility of melanin-based materials for space radiation protection. By characterizing the radiation attenuation efficiency and material properties of fungal-derived melanin, the goal of this research is to establish a proof-of-concept for melanin-based biological shielding materials. These findings will ideally inform the potential development of lightweight, sustainable radiation-protective strategies, and contribute to broader efforts to mitigate radiation risks for astronauts on future long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars.
