Aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, along with JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui, are set to embark on a long-duration expedition that will shed light on the effects of microgravity on human health. The crew is conducting a variety of scientific investigations, including studies on plant cell division, the production of human stem cells, and the development of new treatments for bacterial infections.
One key focus area is the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to produce large numbers of stem cells that can transform into any type of cell in the body. This technology has the potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine therapies for various diseases, but producing enough cells on Earth is a significant challenge. The microgravity environment aboard the space station may hold the key to overcoming this hurdle.
Researchers also plan to investigate the effects of microgravity on interactions between certain bacteria and bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. This study could establish a foundation for using these viruses to treat bacterial infections in space, potentially decreasing the dependence on antibiotics.
In addition to exploring the human health implications of microgravity, the crew will be conducting experiments on producing on-demand nutrients in space. These experiments aim to develop genetically engineered organisms that remain viable for years, such as yogurt and yeast-based beverages. The research also features an investigation into the feasibility of using sensors to detect pathogens and track bacterial growth.
Finally, scientists are studying how microgravity affects cell division in green algae and a strain of cultured tobacco cells. This research could support the development of better methods for growing plants for food in space and provide insight into making plant production systems on Earth more efficient.
As NASA looks toward deep space missions to the Moon and Mars, ongoing research on the International Space Station supports the future of human spaceflight. The crew’s scientific endeavors will contribute significantly to advancing our understanding of microgravity’s impact on human health and pave the way for new treatments and technologies that could benefit humanity back on Earth.
Source: https://www.nasa.gov/missions/station/iss-research/nasas-spacex-crew-11-mission-gears-up-for-space-station-research