New research from the University of Manchester will harness the power of bioprinting technology, unlocking advances in medicine and solving critical health challenges facing astronauts during space missions.
bioprinting This involves using specialized 3D printers to print living cells that form new skin, bone, tissue or organs for transplantation.
This technology has the potential to revolutionize medicine, and bioprinting could have a significant impact, particularly in the field of space travel.
The absence of gravity and exposure to radiation increase the health risks of astronauts on extended space missions. This makes them vulnerable to diseases such as osteoporosis caused by loss of bone density and can lead to injuries such as fractures, which currently cannot be treated in space.
Using bioprinting capabilities in space, researchers aim to protect the health of space explorers.
Currently, bioprinting machines rely on Earth’s gravity to function effectively. New research from the University of Manchester, funded by a £200,000 grant from the UK Space Agency and supported by the European Space Agency, seeks to understand how to adapt the bioprinting process to conditions experienced in space, such as the lack of gravity Go
Dr Marco Domingos, Senior Lecturer in Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering The University of Manchester said: “This project marks a significant leap forward in bioprinting technology and by addressing the challenges posed by microgravity, we are paving the way for remarkable advances in medicine and space exploration.”