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Ecker Cohen O, Neuman S, Natan Y, Levy A, Blum YD, Amselem S, Bavli D, Ben Y. Amorphous calcium carbonate enhances osteogenic differentiation and myotube formation of human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells and primary skeletal muscle cells under microgravity conditions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 41:146-157. [PMID: 38670641 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Astronauts are exposed to severely stressful physiological conditions due to microgravity and increased space radiation. Space environment affects every organ and cell in the body and the significant adverse effects of long-term weightlessness include muscle atrophy and deterioration of the skeleton (spaceflight osteopenia). Amorphous Calcium Carbonate (ACC) emerges as a promising candidate for prevention of these effects, owing to its unique physicochemical properties and its potential to address the intricately linked nature of bone-muscle crosstalk. Reported here are two studies carried out on the International Space Station (ISS). The first, performed in 2018 as a part of the Ramon-Spacelab project, was a preliminary experiment, in which stromal murine cells were differentiated into osteoblasts when ACC was added to the culture medium. A parallel experiment was done on Earth as a control. The second study was part of Axiom-1's Rakia project mission launched to the ISS on 2022 utilizing organ-on-a-chip methodology with a specially designed autonomous module. In this experiment, human bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) and human primary muscle cells were cultured in the presence or absence of ACC, in duplicates. The results showed that ACC enhanced differentiation of human primary skeletal muscle cells into myotubes. Similarly, hBM-MSCs were differentiated significantly better into osteocytes in the presence of ACC leading to increased calcium deposits. The results, combined with previous data, support the use of ACC as an advantageous supplement for preventing muscle and bone deterioration in outer space conditions, facilitating extended extraterrestrial voyages and colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Neuman
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel
| | - Yehudit Natan
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel.
| | - Almog Levy
- SpacePharma R&D, 1 Abba Even Blvd, Herzliya, 4612003, Israel
| | - Yigal Dov Blum
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel
| | - Shimon Amselem
- SpacePharma R&D, 1 Abba Even Blvd, Herzliya, 4612003, Israel
| | - Danny Bavli
- SpacePharma R&D, 1 Abba Even Blvd, Herzliya, 4612003, Israel
| | - Yossi Ben
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel
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Mo X, Zhang Y, Wang Z, Zhou X, Zhang Z, Fang Y, Fan Z, Guo Y, Zhang T, Xiong Z. Satellite-Based On-Orbit Printing of 3D Tumor Models. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2309618. [PMID: 38145905 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202309618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Space three dimension (3D) bioprinting provides a precise and bionic tumor model for evaluating the compound effect of the space environment on tumors, thereby providing insight into the progress of the disease and potential treatments. However, space 3D bioprinting faces several challenges, including prelaunch uncertainty, possible liquid leakage, long-term culture in space, automatic equipment control, data acquisition, and transmission. Here, a novel satellite-based 3D bioprinting device with high structural strength, small volume, and low weight (<6 kg) is developed. A microgel-based biphasic thermosensitive bioink and suspension medium that supports the on-orbit printing and in situ culture of complex tumor models is developed. An intelligent control algorithm that enables the automatic control of 3D printing, autofocusing, fluorescence imaging, and data transfer back to the ground is developed. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first time that on-orbit printing of tumor models is achieved in space with stable morphology and moderate viability via a satellite. It is found that 3D tumor models are more sensitive to antitumor drugs in space than on Earth. This study opens up a new avenue for 3D bioprinting in space and offers new possibilities for future research in space life science and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingwu Mo
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yanmei Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zixuan Wang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Xianhao Zhou
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zhenrui Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yongcong Fang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zilian Fan
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yihan Guo
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo Xiong
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
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Piscon B, Pia Esposito E, Fichtman B, Samburski G, Efremushkin L, Amselem S, Harel A, Rahav G, Zarrilli R, Gal-Mor O. The Effect of Outer Space and Other Environmental Cues on Bacterial Conjugation. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0368822. [PMID: 36995224 PMCID: PMC10269834 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03688-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial conjugation is one of the most abundant horizontal gene transfer (HGT) mechanisms, playing a fundamental role in prokaryote evolution. A better understanding of bacterial conjugation and its cross talk with the environment is needed for a more complete understanding of HGT mechanisms and to fight the dissemination of malicious genes between bacteria. Here, we studied the effect of outer space, microgravity, and additional key environmental cues on transfer (tra) gene expression and conjugation efficiency, using the under studied broad-host range plasmid pN3, as a model. High resolution scanning electron microscopy revealed the morphology of the pN3 conjugative pili and mating pair formation during conjugation. Using a nanosatellite carrying a miniaturized lab, we studied pN3 conjugation in outer space, and used qRT-PCR, Western blotting and mating assays to determine the effect of ground physicochemical parameters on tra gene expression and conjugation. We showed for the first time that bacterial conjugation can occur in outer space and on the ground, under microgravity-simulated conditions. Furthermore, we demonstrated that microgravity, liquid media, elevated temperature, nutrient depletion, high osmolarity and low oxygen significantly reduce pN3 conjugation. Interestingly, under some of these conditions we observed an inverse correlation between tra gene transcription and conjugation frequency and found that induction of at least traK and traL can negatively affect pN3 conjugation frequency in a dose-dependent manner. Collectively, these results uncover pN3 regulation by various environmental cues and highlight the diversity of conjugation systems and the different ways in which they may be regulated in response to abiotic signals. IMPORTANCE Bacterial conjugation is a highly ubiquitous and promiscuous process, by which a donor bacterium transfers a large portion of genetic material to a recipient cell. This mechanism of horizontal gene transfer plays an important role in bacterial evolution and in the ability of bacteria to acquire resistance to antimicrobial drugs and disinfectants. Bacterial conjugation is a complex and energy-consuming process, that is tightly regulated and largely affected by various environmental signals sensed by the bacterial cell. Comprehensive knowledge about bacterial conjugation and the ways it is affected by environmental cues is required to better understand bacterial ecology and evolution and to find new effective ways to counteract the threating dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes between bacterial populations. Moreover, characterizing this process under stress or suboptimal growth conditions such as elevated temperatures, high salinity or in the outer space, may provide insights relevant to future habitat environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bar Piscon
- The Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eliana Pia Esposito
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Boris Fichtman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Guy Samburski
- SpacePharma R&D Israel LTD., Herzliya Pituach, Israel & SpacePharma SA, Courgenay, Switzerland
| | - Lihi Efremushkin
- SpacePharma R&D Israel LTD., Herzliya Pituach, Israel & SpacePharma SA, Courgenay, Switzerland
| | - Shimon Amselem
- SpacePharma R&D Israel LTD., Herzliya Pituach, Israel & SpacePharma SA, Courgenay, Switzerland
| | - Amnon Harel
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Galia Rahav
- The Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Raffaele Zarrilli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ohad Gal-Mor
- The Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Santomartino R, Averesch NJH, Bhuiyan M, Cockell CS, Colangelo J, Gumulya Y, Lehner B, Lopez-Ayala I, McMahon S, Mohanty A, Santa Maria SR, Urbaniak C, Volger R, Yang J, Zea L. Toward sustainable space exploration: a roadmap for harnessing the power of microorganisms. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1391. [PMID: 36944638 PMCID: PMC10030976 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37070-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Finding sustainable approaches to achieve independence from terrestrial resources is of pivotal importance for the future of space exploration. This is relevant not only to establish viable space exploration beyond low Earth-orbit, but also for ethical considerations associated with the generation of space waste and the preservation of extra-terrestrial environments. Here we propose and highlight a series of microbial biotechnologies uniquely suited to establish sustainable processes for in situ resource utilization and loop-closure. Microbial biotechnologies research and development for space sustainability will be translatable to Earth applications, tackling terrestrial environmental issues, thereby supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Santomartino
- UK Centre for Astrobiology, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Nils J H Averesch
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Utilization of Biological Engineering in Space, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Charles S Cockell
- UK Centre for Astrobiology, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Yosephine Gumulya
- Centre for Microbiome Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | | | - Sean McMahon
- UK Centre for Astrobiology, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anurup Mohanty
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, 600 1st Ave, Floor 1, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
| | - Sergio R Santa Maria
- Space Biosciences, NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, CA, USA
- KBR, Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | - Camilla Urbaniak
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- ZIN Technologies Inc, Middleburg Heights, OH, USA
| | - Rik Volger
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Jiseon Yang
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Luis Zea
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
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Biosensor integrated tissue chips and their applications on Earth and in space. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 222:114820. [PMID: 36527831 PMCID: PMC10143284 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The development of space exploration technologies has positively impacted everyday life on Earth in terms of communication, environmental, social, and economic perspectives. The human body constantly fluctuates during spaceflight, even for a short-term mission. Unfortunately, technology is evolving faster than humans' ability to adapt, and many therapeutics entering clinical trials fail even after being subjected to vigorous in vivo testing due to toxicity and lack of efficacy. Therefore, tissue chips (also mentioned as organ-on-a-chip) with biosensors are being developed to compensate for the lack of relevant models to help improve the drug development process. There has been a push to monitor cell and tissue functions, based on their biological signals and utilize the integration of biosensors into tissue chips in space to monitor and assess cell microenvironment in real-time. With the collaboration between the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and other partners, they are providing the opportunities to study the effects of microgravity environment has on the human body. Institutions such as the National Institute of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF) are partnering with CASIS and NASA to utilize tissue chips onboard the International Space Station (ISS). This article reviews the endless benefits of space technology, the development of integrated biosensors in tissue chips and their applications to better understand human biology, physiology, and diseases in space and on Earth, followed by future perspectives of tissue chip applications on Earth and in space.
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Vashi A, Sreejith KR, Nguyen NT. Lab-on-a-Chip Technologies for Microgravity Simulation and Space Applications. MICROMACHINES 2022; 14:116. [PMID: 36677176 PMCID: PMC9864955 DOI: 10.3390/mi14010116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Gravity plays an important role in the development of life on earth. The effect of gravity on living organisms can be investigated by controlling the magnitude of gravity. Most reduced gravity experiments are conducted on the Lower Earth Orbit (LEO) in the International Space Station (ISS). However, running experiments in ISS face challenges such as high cost, extreme condition, lack of direct accessibility, and long waiting period. Therefore, researchers have developed various ground-based devices and methods to perform reduced gravity experiments. However, the advantage of space conditions for developing new drugs, vaccines, and chemical applications requires more attention and new research. Advancements in conventional methods and the development of new methods are necessary to fulfil these demands. The advantages of Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) devices make them an attractive option for simulating microgravity. This paper briefly reviews the advancement of LOC technologies for simulating microgravity in an earth-based laboratory.
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Pyttlik A, Kuttich B, Kraus T. Microgravity Removes Reaction Limits from Nonpolar Nanoparticle Agglomeration. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2204621. [PMID: 36216735 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202204621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Gravity can affect the agglomeration of nanoparticles by changing convection and sedimentation. The temperature-induced agglomeration of hexadecanethiol-capped gold nanoparticles in microgravity (µ g) is studied at the ZARM (Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity) drop tower and compared to their agglomeration on the ground (1 g). Nonpolar nanoparticles with a hydrodynamic diameter of 13 nm are dispersed in tetradecane, rapidly cooled from 70 to 10 °C to induce agglomeration, and observed by dynamic light scattering at a time resolution of 1 s. The mean hydrodynamic diameters of the agglomerates formed after 8 s in microgravity are 3 times (for low initial concentrations) to 5 times (at high initial concentrations) larger than on the ground. The observations are consistent with an agglomeration process that is closer to the reaction limit on thground and closer to the diffusion limit in microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pyttlik
- Structure Formation, INM Leibniz-Institute for New Materials, Campus D2 2, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Björn Kuttich
- Structure Formation, INM Leibniz-Institute for New Materials, Campus D2 2, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Tobias Kraus
- Structure Formation, INM Leibniz-Institute for New Materials, Campus D2 2, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
- Colloid and Interface Chemistry, Saarland University, Campus D2 2, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
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Acharya A, Nemade H, Papadopoulos S, Hescheler J, Neumaier F, Schneider T, Rajendra Prasad K, Khan K, Hemmersbach R, Gusmao EG, Mizi A, Papantonis A, Sachinidis A. Microgravity-induced stress mechanisms in human stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. iScience 2022; 25:104577. [PMID: 35789849 PMCID: PMC9249673 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to outer space microgravity poses a risk for the development of various pathologies including cardiovascular disease. To study this, we derived cardiomyocytes (CMs) from human-induced pluripotent stem cells and exposed them to simulated microgravity (SMG). We combined different “omics” and chromosome conformation capture technologies with live-cell imaging of various transgenic lines to discover that SMG impacts on the contractile velocity and function of CMs via the induction of senescence processes. This is linked to SMG-induced changes of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and energy metabolism by mitochondria. Taken together, we uncover a microgravity-controlled axis causing contractile dysfunctions to CMs. Our findings can contribute to the design of preventive and therapeutic strategies against senescence-associated disease. Simulated microgravity (SMG) causes ROS production in human cardiomyocytes (CMs) SMG inhibits mitochondria function and energy metabolism and induces senescence of CMs SMG attenuates contractile velocity, beating frequency and Ca2+ influx in CMs SMG induces chromosomal changes and modifies the chromosomal architecture in CMs
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Ju Z, Thomas TN, Chiu YJ, Yamanouchi S, Yoshida Y, Abe JI, Takahashi A, Wang J, Fujiwara K, Hada M. Adaptation and Changes in Actin Dynamics and Cell Motility as Early Responses of Cultured Mammalian Cells to Altered Gravitational Vector. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6127. [PMID: 35682810 PMCID: PMC9181735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cultured mammalian cells have been shown to respond to microgravity (μG), but the molecular mechanism is still unknown. The study we report here is focused on molecular and cellular events that occur within a short period of time, which may be related to gravity sensing by cells. Our assumption is that the gravity-sensing mechanism is activated as soon as cells are exposed to any new gravitational environment. To study the molecular events, we exposed cells to simulated μG (SμG) for 15 min, 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, and 8 h using a three-dimensional clinostat and made cell lysates, which were then analyzed by reverse phase protein arrays (RPPAs) using a panel of 453 different antibodies. By comparing the RPPA data from cells cultured at 1G with those of cells under SμG, we identified a total of 35 proteomic changes in the SμG samples and found that 20 of these changes took place, mostly transiently, within 30 min. In the 4 h and 8 h samples, there were only two RPPA changes, suggesting that the physiology of these cells is practically indistinguishable from that of cells cultured at 1 G. Among the proteins involved in the early proteomic changes were those that regulate cell motility and cytoskeletal organization. To see whether changes in gravitational environment indeed activate cell motility, we flipped the culture dish upside down (directional change in gravity vector) and studied cell migration and actin cytoskeletal organization. We found that compared with cells grown right-side up, upside-down cells transiently lost stress fibers and rapidly developed lamellipodia, which was supported by increased activity of Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1). The upside-down cells also increased their migratory activity. It is possible that these early molecular and cellular events play roles in gravity sensing by mammalian cells. Our study also indicated that these early responses are transient, suggesting that cells appear to adapt physiologically to a new gravitational environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlin Ju
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Tamlyn N. Thomas
- Department of Cardiology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.N.T.); (J.-i.A.)
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical School, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
| | - Yi-Jen Chiu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester Medical School, Rochester, NY 14642, USA;
| | - Sakuya Yamanouchi
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, Maebashi 371-8511, Japan; (S.Y.); (Y.Y.); (A.T.)
| | - Yukari Yoshida
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, Maebashi 371-8511, Japan; (S.Y.); (Y.Y.); (A.T.)
| | - Jun-ichi Abe
- Department of Cardiology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.N.T.); (J.-i.A.)
| | - Akihisa Takahashi
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, Maebashi 371-8511, Japan; (S.Y.); (Y.Y.); (A.T.)
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Keigi Fujiwara
- Department of Cardiology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.N.T.); (J.-i.A.)
| | - Megumi Hada
- Radiation Institute for Science & Engineering, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX 77446, USA;
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Kuang S, Singh NM, Wu Y, Shen Y, Ren W, Tu L, Yong KT, Song P. Role of microfluidics in accelerating new space missions. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:021503. [PMID: 35497325 PMCID: PMC9033306 DOI: 10.1063/5.0079819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Numerous revolutionary space missions have been initiated and planned for the following decades, including plans for novel spacecraft, exploration of the deep universe, and long duration manned space trips. Compared with space missions conducted over the past 50 years, current missions have features of spacecraft miniaturization, a faster task cycle, farther destinations, braver goals, and higher levels of precision. Tasks are becoming technically more complex and challenging, but also more accessible via commercial space activities. Remarkably, microfluidics has proven impactful in newly conceived space missions. In this review, we focus on recent advances in space microfluidic technologies and their impact on the state-of-the-art space missions. We discuss how micro-sized fluid and microfluidic instruments behave in space conditions, based on hydrodynamic theories. We draw on analyses outlining the reasons why microfluidic components and operations have become crucial in recent missions by categorically investigating a series of successful space missions integrated with microfluidic technologies. We present a comprehensive technical analysis on the recently developed in-space microfluidic applications such as the lab-on-a-CubeSat, healthcare for manned space missions, evaluation and reconstruction of the environment on celestial bodies, in-space manufacturing of microfluidic devices, and development of fluid-based micro-thrusters. The discussions in this review provide insights on microfluidic technologies that hold considerable promise for the upcoming space missions, and also outline how in-space conditions present a new perspective to the microfluidics field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nishtha Manish Singh
- Critical Analytics for Manufacturing Personalized-Medicine, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, CREATE, Singapore
| | - Yichao Wu
- College of Resources & Environment of Huazhong Agricultural University, No.1, Shizishan Street, Wuhan, 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Shen
- School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijia Ren
- SPACETY, No.9 Dengzhuang South Road, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liangcheng Tu
- School of Physics and Astronomy, Sun Yat-sen University (Zhuhai Campus), Zhuhai 519082, People's Republic of China
| | - Ken-Tye Yong
- Faculty of Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Peiyi Song
- MOE Key Laboratory of Fundamental Physical Quantities Measurement & Hubei Key Laboratory of Gravitation and Quantum Physics, PGMF and School of Physics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
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11
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Stahl-Rommel S, Li D, Sung M, Li R, Vijayakumar A, Atabay KD, Bushkin GG, Castro CL, Foley KD, Copeland DS, Castro-Wallace SL, Alvarez Saavedra E, Gleason EJ, Kraves S. A CRISPR-based assay for the study of eukaryotic DNA repair onboard the International Space Station. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253403. [PMID: 34191829 PMCID: PMC8244870 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As we explore beyond Earth, astronauts may be at risk for harmful DNA damage caused by ionizing radiation. Double-strand breaks are a type of DNA damage that can be repaired by two major cellular pathways: non-homologous end joining, during which insertions or deletions may be added at the break site, and homologous recombination, in which the DNA sequence often remains unchanged. Previous work suggests that space conditions may impact the choice of DNA repair pathway, potentially compounding the risks of increased radiation exposure during space travel. However, our understanding of this problem has been limited by technical and safety concerns, which have prevented integral study of the DNA repair process in space. The CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system offers a model for the safe and targeted generation of double-strand breaks in eukaryotes. Here we describe a CRISPR-based assay for DNA break induction and assessment of double-strand break repair pathway choice entirely in space. As necessary steps in this process, we describe the first successful genetic transformation and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in space. These milestones represent a significant expansion of the molecular biology toolkit onboard the International Space Station.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Li
- Woodbury High School, Woodbury, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Michelle Sung
- Mounds View High School, Arden Hills, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Li
- Mounds View High School, Arden Hills, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Aarthi Vijayakumar
- Mounds View High School, Arden Hills, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Kutay Deniz Atabay
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - G. Guy Bushkin
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Kevin D. Foley
- Boeing Defense, Space & Security, Berkley, Michigan, United States of America
| | - D. Scott Copeland
- Boeing Defense, Space & Security, Berkley, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sarah L. Castro-Wallace
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | | | - Emily J. Gleason
- MiniPCR Bio, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail: (EJG); (SK)
| | - Sebastian Kraves
- MiniPCR Bio, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail: (EJG); (SK)
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12
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Riwaldt S, Corydon TJ, Pantalone D, Sahana J, Wise P, Wehland M, Krüger M, Melnik D, Kopp S, Infanger M, Grimm D. Role of Apoptosis in Wound Healing and Apoptosis Alterations in Microgravity. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:679650. [PMID: 34222218 PMCID: PMC8248797 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.679650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Functioning as the outermost self-renewing protective layer of the human organism, skin protects against a multitude of harmful biological and physical stimuli. Consisting of ectodermal, mesenchymal, and neural crest-derived cell lineages, tissue homeostasis, and signal transduction are finely tuned through the interplay of various pathways. A health problem of astronauts in space is skin deterioration. Until today, wound healing has not been considered as a severe health concern for crew members. This can change with deep space exploration missions and commercial spaceflights together with space tourism. Albeit the molecular process of wound healing is not fully elucidated yet, there have been established significant conceptual gains and new scientific methods. Apoptosis, e.g., programmed cell death, enables orchestrated development and cell removal in wounded or infected tissue. Experimental designs utilizing microgravity allow new insights into the role of apoptosis in wound healing. Furthermore, impaired wound healing in unloading conditions would depict a significant challenge in human-crewed exploration space missions. In this review, we provide an overview of alterations in the behavior of cutaneous cell lineages under microgravity in regard to the impact of apoptosis in wound healing. We discuss the current knowledge about wound healing in space and simulated microgravity with respect to apoptosis and available therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Riwaldt
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas J. Corydon
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Desiré Pantalone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Petra Wise
- The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Markus Wehland
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Melnik
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sascha Kopp
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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13
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Prasad B, Grimm D, Strauch SM, Erzinger GS, Corydon TJ, Lebert M, Magnusson NE, Infanger M, Richter P, Krüger M. Influence of Microgravity on Apoptosis in Cells, Tissues, and Other Systems In Vivo and In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9373. [PMID: 33317046 PMCID: PMC7764784 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
All life forms have evolved under the constant force of gravity on Earth and developed ways to counterbalance acceleration load. In space, shear forces, buoyance-driven convection, and hydrostatic pressure are nullified or strongly reduced. When subjected to microgravity in space, the equilibrium between cell architecture and the external force is disturbed, resulting in changes at the cellular and sub-cellular levels (e.g., cytoskeleton, signal transduction, membrane permeability, etc.). Cosmic radiation also poses great health risks to astronauts because it has high linear energy transfer values that evoke complex DNA and other cellular damage. Space environmental conditions have been shown to influence apoptosis in various cell types. Apoptosis has important functions in morphogenesis, organ development, and wound healing. This review provides an overview of microgravity research platforms and apoptosis. The sections summarize the current knowledge of the impact of microgravity and cosmic radiation on cells with respect to apoptosis. Apoptosis-related microgravity experiments conducted with different mammalian model systems are presented. Recent findings in cells of the immune system, cardiovascular system, brain, eyes, cartilage, bone, gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas, as well as cancer cells investigated under real and simulated microgravity conditions, are discussed. This comprehensive review indicates the potential of the space environment in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binod Prasad
- Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University, Staudtstraße 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; (B.P.); (M.L.)
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (D.G.); (T.J.C.)
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.I.); (M.K.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian M. Strauch
- Postgraduate Program in Health and Environment, University of Joinville Region, Rua Paulo Malschitzki, 10 - Zona Industrial Norte, Joinville, SC 89219-710, Brazil; (S.M.S.); (G.S.E.)
| | - Gilmar Sidnei Erzinger
- Postgraduate Program in Health and Environment, University of Joinville Region, Rua Paulo Malschitzki, 10 - Zona Industrial Norte, Joinville, SC 89219-710, Brazil; (S.M.S.); (G.S.E.)
| | - Thomas J. Corydon
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergsgade 10, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (D.G.); (T.J.C.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Blvd. 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Michael Lebert
- Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University, Staudtstraße 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; (B.P.); (M.L.)
- Space Biology Unlimited SAS, 24 Cours de l’Intendance, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nils E. Magnusson
- Diabetes and Hormone Diseases, Medical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 165, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark;
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.I.); (M.K.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Peter Richter
- Gravitational Biology Group, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University, Staudtstraße 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; (B.P.); (M.L.)
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.I.); (M.K.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
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14
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Eyal S. How do the pharmacokinetics of drugs change in astronauts in space? Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2020; 16:353-356. [PMID: 32223468 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2020.1746763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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15
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Eyal S, Derendorf H. One Giant Leap for Pharmacology. Pharm Res 2020; 37:62. [PMID: 32124057 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-020-02788-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Hartmut Derendorf
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32610-0494, USA
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