University of California San Francisco

October 18, 2024

Pioneering space research leverages microgravity for tissue engineering breakthroughs

 

Key Takeaways

  • Microgravity Innovation: The unique conditions of low Earth orbit help to self-assemble human liver tissues with enhanced functionality, compared to Earth-based methods. 
  • Advanced Tissue Preservation: The project includes developing a bioreactor for the stable supercooling preservation of tissues, a critical step toward transporting viable tissues back to Earth. 
  • Clinical Implications: This research could lead to novel stem cell-derived liver tissues, providing an alternative to traditional liver transplants.