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Although experiences on how life in space affects the human body are certainly not new, there are still many things that we do not really understand about the effects of life in the world. space for long periods.
To learn more, SpaceX scientists have sent to the International Space Station (ISS) a new technology called tissue chip, containing human organ cells. These fleas could help predict the effectiveness of some potential drugs in humans.
According to a NASA press release, microgravity can cause changes in human cells that look like accelerated processes of aging and disease.
In orbit on the ISS, microgravity is rapidly changing the body of astronauts. It suppresses their immune system and weakens their muscles and bones.
Each of the chips that have been transported is designed to mimic a different part of the human body. A multitude of cells were sent to the ISS, from the kidneys and lungs to our bones, through the blood-brain barrier.
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As part of the investigation, a fluid mimicking the blood and possibly containing drugs or toxins will pass through the fleas.
This means that scientists will be able to see how a few weeks in microgravity would affect cells rather than having to spend months in a similar experiment on Earth.
Ultimately, this will allow researchers to learn more about how to preserve the health of astronauts during long-term space travel.
They also believe that research will be essential to the development of new medical treatments on Earth.
Under the effect of microgravity, human cells are aging rapidly
The changes that would normally take place a few months on Earth take only a few weeks in space. This is thought to be related to caps at the end of our cell chromosomes, called telomeres, which help protect our DNA from damage.
As we age or experience stress, these capsules decrease. Scientists believe that telomeres should change length during their stay in space – not only because of their aging and natural causes, but also other stressors, including cosmic radiation and radiation. # 39; weightlessness.
By sending these cells to the ISS, scientists will also be able to more quickly explore the effects of new drugs on diseases.
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