Translation from Microgravity Research to Earth Application

Dear Colleagues,

Microgravity provides a unique research environment and an opportunity to identify cellular mechanisms involved in gravity-sensing, regulation and adaptation responses at the cellular, tissue and organism level, covering animals, plants and humans. Microgravity research is, in many cases, a continuation of ground-based studies in microgravity analogues and simulations, as well as under increased gravitational (hypergravity) conditions, providing comprehensive and new knowledge on the regulation of cellular and sub-cellular functioning.  Furthermore, the microgravity environment is characterized by a lack of sedimentation, which facilitates the assembly of 3D cell constructions and bioprinting with innovative potential applications in tissue and bioengineering techniques. A prerequisite for long-lasting deep space missions is the knowledge of the effect of microgravity on key biological systems, such as the immune, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, neurosensory, neuroendocrine, excretory, respiratory system, their metabolism and homeostasis, focusing on molecular/cellular processes, but also the development of life support systems. There are many indications and already findings that pathophysiological changes observed during and after spaceflight represent models of a series of chronic diseases known from Earth. This Topic provides examples from microgravity studies with potential applications to Earth-related issues.

Dr. Daniela Grimm
Dr. Ruth Hemmersbach
Topic Editors