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The Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust unveiled a groundbreaking research initiative over the weekend focused on examining the effects of microgravity on stem cells, which will take place aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Funded by the Research Grants Program as part of its Advanced Research Grants Program: Space Edition, this initiative marks a significant step forward in comprehending how conditions in space impact cellular behavior.
Led by Dr. Maribella Domenech from the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez Campus, the study will explore the influence of microgravity on the growth of particular stem cells and their anti-inflammatory properties. By delving into these factors, the project aims to uncover vital insights into the mechanisms that govern stem cell functionality in outer space, which could hold major implications for space exploration and terrestrial medicine.
“Sending our research to the International Space Station is an extraordinary opportunity, a dream realized for our team,” Domenech expressed on Sunday. “This mission elevates the global visibility of our Department of Chemical Engineering and the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, while also opening doors for groundbreaking discoveries. Analyzing cellular behavior in microgravity provides unparalleled insights into cellular dynamics and stem cell production, unlocking transformative possibilities for research and encouraging new international partnerships.”
The project’s launch was made feasible through a partnership with Rhodium Scientific, an essential collaborator in furthering space research and technology. Rhodium Scientific will offer vital support and resources to guarantee the successful implementation and oversight of the study aboard the ISS.
