NEW DELHI New Delhi: A team of US researchers is leading the way towards self-assembly of human liver tissues in low Earth orbit (LEO) – the region of space below an altitude of about 1,931 kilometers – from which stem cells can be harvested. Liver tissue could be developed, which would provide an alternative to traditional liver transplantation. The “Out of this World” project has the potential to change the future of tissue engineering and liver transplantation through innovative research conducted on the International Space Station (ISS). Is.
Led by Tammy T. Chang, professor of surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, this process could significantly enhance the development of complex tissues for medical use on Earth. “Our goal is to develop robust preservation techniques that allow us to preserve functional tissues. back to Earth, where they can be used for a number of biomedical applications, including disease modeling, drug testing and ultimately therapeutic implants,” said Dr. Chang.
This method takes advantage of the unique environment of microgravity to address the limitations of current tissue engineering techniques on Earth. For example, the use of artificial matrices that provide a framework for cells to grow can introduce foreign materials and alter cellular function. “Our findings show that microgravity conditions enable the growth of liver tissues with better differentiation and functionality than those cultured on Earth,” said Dr. Chang. This is an important step toward creating viable liver tissue transplants that can serve as an alternative or adjunct to conventional liver transplantation. These stem cells are created in microgravity into liver tissues that function like a small, simple liver.
Unlike Earth-based tissue engineering methods that rely on exogenous matrices or culture plates, microgravity allows cells to float freely and settle naturally, resulting in more physiologically accurate tissues. The research team is also working on advanced cryopreservation techniques to safely transport engineered tissues from space to Earth. The next step involves testing isochoric supercooling, a preservation method that keeps tissues below freezing point without damaging them. This technology could extend the shelf life of engineered tissues and potentially be applied to whole organs. Dr. Chang said, “Our goal is to develop robust preservation techniques that will enable us to return functional tissues to Earth, where they can be used for a range of biomedical applications, including disease modeling, drug testing, and ultimately therapeutic transplants.” Can be done.”
Comments are closed.