A genome sequencing device is best suited for searching for living organisms on other planets, since it allows you to find life that uses chemical compounds and reactions that are unusual for terrestrial organisms. This is the conclusion reached by American scientists who published their article in the journal Astrobiology. They also spoke about the results of their work at the 49th Conference on the Exploration of Moons and Planets.
Detecting extraterrestrial life can be difficult because it can be very different from what exists on Earth, such as not using DNA and RNA to convey hereditary information. Therefore, scientists need a device with a "broader" effect.
The authors of the article propose to use a technology similar to that used in cancer research - systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). The essence of this technology is to search through a large number of random nucleotide sequences (called aptamers) to find those that can bind to a target, for example, specific receptors of cancer cells.
Similarly, scientists want to test complex molecules during expeditions to other planets and their satellites. Each sample is supposed to be mixed with all sorts of aptamers, observing if it binds to any of them. By repeating the operation and eliminating unbound aptamers, it is possible to refine the information on the structure of the compound.
So far, no NASA unmanned mission is planning to equip a sequencer, but the agency's specialists are working to make the device suitable for work in space.