Stem cell research has long been an interest for scientists and health experts. The potential of stem cells to repair damaged tissues has paved the way for treating various diseases and injuries. In a recent project, a groundbreaking development is set to take stem cell research to new heights.
Taking Flight Into Space
On January 29, the SpaceX Falcon 9 CRS NG-20 rocket will launch a payload into space from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Part of this payload is a research experiment conducted by Mayo Clinic, which focuses on the effect of gravity on a type of stem cell.
According to Mayo Clinic laboratory medicine and pathology specialist Dr. Abba Zubair, astronauts tend to lose bone density on long-duration space flights. Because of this, his team wanted to understand how this condition takes place to work on solutions that could prevent bone loss both in astronauts in space and in patients here on Earth.
The study will focus on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a type of stem cells derived from bone marrow and are known for their growth factors and healing potential. Also known as adult stem cells, these special human cells play a vital role in repairing and regenerating tissues.
Dr. Zubair's team will investigate how the stem cells function while in space. Their ultimate goal is to test therapeutic agents that can prevent or treat bone loss associated with osteoporosis, as well as those that occur in patients who have been bedridden for long periods.
The researchers plan to conduct the project during two space flights. In the first space flight, they will evaluate the effect of microgravity on bone-forming stem cells. The second one, tentatively planned for the end of the year, will involve an analysis of the impact of microgravity on other types of cells that contribute to bone formation or loss. The experts will test a compound that can treat bone loss in space and on Earth.
The first foray into space for this research occurred in 2017 when the Kennedy Space Center launched a payload of samples of donated stem cells. The test aimed to determine the ability of the stem cells to hold up in space and be more mass-produced quickly in microgravity for use in treating stroke patients. It was found that stem cells grown in zero gravity are safe and feasible for applications to human disease.
Dr. Zubair believes their findings could affect future space flights, including Mars exploration. Although this research is still in its early stages, the researchers also hope it might affect human clinical trials.
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Stem Cell Treatment for Bone Regeneration
An old bone is regularly broken down and replaced with a new one to help keep the bones strong. In osteoporosis, more bone is broken down than is replaced.
A 2020 review notes that mesenchymal stem cells show the highest potential to develop into osteoblasts or the cells that make new bones. These are also the most common types of adult stem cells used in osteoporosis research since they can be found in various tissues.
Aside from osteoblasts, MSCs work by secreting factors promoting bone formation. This means that they not only develop into new osteoblasts but can also help existing ones function better.
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