Macrophages in microgravity
Macrophages in microgravity
In the second CellBox experiment, millions of macrophages will be exposed to microgravity on the ISS. The immune system's 'scavenger cells' circulate around the body and 'eat' intruder microorganisms and other harmful substances. In this experiment, certain surface molecules that are responsible for the detection of foreign bodies and for communication between the cells will be analysed in microgravity and under Earth-like conditions. In addition, the cytoskeleton and certain secretion products such as cytokines, which regulate cell growth and differentiation will be studied. This can be used to determine the condition of the cells and to precisely measure any changes. Countermeasures in the form of therapy or medication can only be developed if the cellular causes for immunodeficiency in zero gravity are understood. Preliminary tests conducted during DLR parabolic flights have indicated that macrophage activity is influenced by changes in gravity. This could possibly explain the immune function deficiency experienced by humans in space.
