Stem Cells

Overview: Stem cell research in space offers great potential to expand our understanding of cellular behavior and therapeutic applications. The International Space Station (ISS International Space Station ) National Laboratory empowers scientists to unravel the mysteries of how microgravity The condition of perceived weightlessness created when an object is in free fall, for example when an object is in orbital motion. Microgravity alters many observable phenomena within the physical and life sciences, allowing scientists to study things in ways not possible on Earth. The International Space Station provides access to a persistent microgravity environment. influences stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and function. These investigations are unlocking key mechanisms that could significantly enhance stem cell performance, paving the way for accelerated advancements in regenerative medicine and biotechnology. https://issnationallab.org/research-and-science/space-research-overview/research-areas/in-space-production-applications/stem-cells/

In-Space Production: Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

In-Space Production: Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine The field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine spans from cell-based studies to organoid growth and 3D printing of human tissues. Regenerative medicine research is aimed at improving health and longevity, using tissue chips and a biofabrication facility (Abbreviation: BFF) The BFF is a 3D bioprinter on the ISS capable of printing human tissue from bioinks mixed with living cells. This ISS National Lab commercial facility is owned and operated by Redwire Space. to address larger challenges with real-world applications. Tissue engineering has many applications but often includes culturing tissues resembling those in the body to model and study human disease, allow higher-accuracy and personalized drug testing, or advance research in organ growth to address the shortage of organs for transplantation. https://issnationallab.org/research-and-science/space-research-overview/research-areas/in-space-production-applications/tissue-engineering-and-regenerative-medicine/

Upward Downloads browse and download past issues of Upward to learn more! +...

https://issnationallab.org/news-and-events/upward-downloads/ The International Space Station (ISS) is a powerful platform in low Earth orbit (LEO) that enables research and development (R&D) not possible on Earth. With its persistent microgravity, access to the extreme space environment, and unique vantage point, this one-of-a-kind orbiting laboratory allows investigators to advance R&D in a wide variety of disciplines.

Case Studies +...

Case Studies Researchers from academic institutions, commercial companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies are leveraging the unique environment of space to gain valuable insights. Each case study below showcases an ISS National Laboratory project or initiative. Learn from those who have already benefited from the station’s unique capabilities. https://issnationallab.org/case_studies/

Microgravity improves production of artificial retina to restore vision ISS NATIONAL LAB OPPORTUNITY

Microgravity improves production of artificial retina to restore vision ISS NATIONAL LAB OPPORTUNITY In space, the reduction in gravity-driven forces enables the production of artificial retinas with much more uniform protein layers, improving quality and reducing waste. https://issnationallab.org/case_study/advancing-artificial-retinas/ LambdaVision developed an artificial retina to restore vision in patients with blindness from macular degeneration. The company creates thin films made of hundreds of layers of a light-sensitive protein, and small, oval-shaped artificial retinas are punched out of the film. During manufacturing on Earth, sedimentation and buoyancy-driven convection cause inconsistencies in the layers, which can render parts of the film unusable. In space, these gravity-driven forces are greatly reduced, making it the ideal environment for manufacturing the films. LambdaVision has conducted nine ISS International Space Station investigations to advance an automated production system, developed in collaboration with ISS National Lab Commercial Service Provider Implementation Partners that own and operate commercial facilities for the support of research on the ISS or are developing future facilities. Space Tango, to produce artificial retinas in space.

Scientists identify new drug target to combat airborne tuberculosis

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260826/Scientists-identify-new-drug-target-to-combat-airborne-tuberculosis.aspx?utm_source=azonetwork_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=drug_discovery_newsletter_3_september_2026 Tuberculosis bacteria released into the air from infected individuals dry out to form infectious particles that are second only to measles in contagiousness. Weill Cornell Medicine investigators have discovered specific mechanisms that enable the bacteria not only to survive drying but also to generate mutations linked to antibiotic resistance. This suggests that transmission involves more than the passive movement of bacteria between people and may be a period during which the pathogen evolves.

Advancing degrader and proximity-based drug development

https://www.news-medical.net/industry-focus/Advancing-degrader-and-proximity-based-drug-development?utm_source=azonetwork_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=drug_discovery_newsletter_3_september_2026 A decade of development has yielded the targeted protein degradation (TPD) field its first drug approval with Arvinas' Veppanu. Alongside the 2026 market resurgence, this clinical achievement is poised to inspire novel strategies and elevate TPD to a major milestone. Targeted protein degradation is reshaping drug discovery, from PROTACs to molecular glues and proximity-based approaches. This eBook explores the scientific, technical, and development considerations helping teams identify stronger candidates, improve selectivity, and accelerate therapeutic innovation across complex disease areas where conventional modalities may fall short for patients worldwide today.