Author ORCID Identifier:
Date of Graduation
7-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Dynamics (PhD)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Environmental Dynamics
Advisor/Mentor
Lay, Jackson
Committee Member
Seasly, Elaine
Second Committee Member
Benardini, Nick
Third Committee Member
Adams, Paul
Fourth Committee Member
Tian, Ryan
Fifth Committee Member
Kral, Tim
Keywords
Astrobiology; Biochemistry; Biology; Molecular Dynamics; Physical Chemistry; Planetary Science
Abstract
Salts exhibit unique and specific effects on biomolecular structure depending on the physical nature of the salt (ion density, formation of hydration shells, direct binding to protein). This thesis implements biochemical, thermodynamic, and computational methods to investigate how the nature of the salt effects protein structure, which aids in defining the habitability of various brine solutions. By using simple proteins and solar system relevant salts, we inspect the physical reactions of proteins to these saltwater environments to understand which salts stabilize or destabilize protein structure. Several methods of experimentation are utilized to provide an understanding of the interaction relevant to saltwater and proteins relevant to. To understand protein response to these saltwater environments, we analyze outcomes that demonstrate protein structural bending, formation of internal hydrogen bonds, salting-in / salting-out, change in thermal stability, photon absorption (UV-Vis), visual microscopy observations, and particle size based on light scattering (hyperspectral). These experimental methods allow us to detect salt related effects on protein structure that reflect protein stability. This research has specific implications for defining habitable zones and special regions. These outcomes provide relevant data regarding decisions that include the designation of special regions for the planetary protection discipline. Special regions are habitable locations in our solar system of which terrestrial or alien organisms could evolve and propagate. Planetary protection aims to protect these special regions from contamination. Using this data and similar data, planetary protection can consider the potential limits of life parameters concerning performance-based modeling for probability of contamination. Additionally, gaining knowledge of potentially habitable zones presents moral implications related to disturbing regions where life may emerge.
Citation
Osborne, S. D. (2026). Chaotropic and Kosmotropic Effects of Brines on Protein Structure: Habitability Across the Solar System. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/6425
