Biologist supports genetic engineering techniques for human space exploration

SPACE.com : Genomics pioneer J. Craig Venter asserts that human space exploration could benefit from more genetic screening and genetic engineering. Genetic screening could help better identify individuals most suited for long space missions, by identifying certain genes that would be desirable, such as ones that encode robust bone regeneration or rapid repair of DNA. Genetic engineering could make space travel safer and more efficient, by engineering microbes to help astronauts take up nutrients more efficiently or to eliminate body odor, for example. However, engineering humans would only come after long consideration and debate, Venter said.