By Axiom Space
First time bioprinted solid tissue constructs to be sent to the International Space Station and induced pluripotent stem cells to be manufactured in space.
Microgravity allows researchers to study the behavior of cells and tissues in a unique environment, which can lead to new insights and medical breakthroughs in combating disease. For the Ax-2 mission, Axiom Space is working with the University of Connecticut, Eascra Biotech, Cedars-Sinai, and the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) to learn more about how microgravity affects stem cells and thick tissue constructs. Their research will provide valuable insights into detecting diseases and developing therapies for people on Earth. Among the experiments flying on Ax-2 are bioengineered liver and kidney tissue constructs, which will assess the impact of microgravity on the vascularization of thick tissues, which could help create a solution for patients in need of organ transplants.
Space Tissue and Regeneration
In collaboration with WFIRM and the RegenMed Development Organization (ReMDO)
During the Ax-2 mission, WFIRM will make history when sending the first bioprinted solid tissue constructs to the International Space Station (ISS). The Ax-2 crew will evaluate the vascularization of thick tissue in microgravity and the effectiveness of this platform technology for other tissue types.