Applied Aerospace Biology
The Department of Applied Aerospace Biology pursues an interdisciplinary, translational research strategy that acts at the interface of biomedical research and engineering. The goal is to achieve a profound understanding of the effects of altered gravity on biological systems. Furthermore, the impacts of space flights on technological developments, such as the FLUMIAS Live-Cell Imaging microscope for the ISS, are evaluated and optimized for industrial applications. Our research aims to develop innovative solutions that do not only advance scientific knowledge but also yield practical applications for improving quality of life on Earth and in space.
Cellular and molecular biological research is an integral part of understanding the structure and physiological function of individual cells, tissues, and organisms under extreme environmental conditions. This allows us to comprehend the onset and progression of diseases, such as the deconditioning of neuromuscular networks.
Additionally, our focus lies on the investigation of microorganisms, which serve as model systems relevant to human health. We examine cellular mechanisms and microbiome-environment interactions using biological samples from rigorously controlled human studies. Our microbiological research leverages knowledge of microbial adaptation to extreme environmental conditions and develops strategies for controlling pathogens in space travel, aviation, and public transportation.
This enables the development of effective countermeasures based on laboratory-based simulations of space analogues including microgravity, hypergravity, ionizing radiation, and varying atmospheric conditions. These standards are systematically validated through bioassays and research experiments aboard platforms like free flyers of the ISS and the DLR MAPHEUS sounding rockets.
Working Groups
Applied Cell Biology (Dr. Christian Liemersdorf, Dr. Patrick Lau)
- Identification of gravity-sensitive responses of individual cell types that model various behavioral and physiological deconditioning phenotypes in humans with the focus on neuronal cells
- Verification of ground-based studies under hypergravity/simulated microgravity conditions in real microgravity using various platforms including DLR Mapheus sounding rockets, drop-tower, parabolic aircraft flights, and the Biolab and Flumias device on the ISS
Aerospace Microbiology (Dr. Stefan Leuko, Dr. Kristina Beblo-Vranesevic)
- Research into the human microbiome, biofilm formation, antimicrobial materials and decontamination approaches
- The microbiome of isolated habitats
- Life in extreme environments
- Radiation reaction of microorganisms