Researchers seeking to grow tissue in space

Researchers from the University of Zurich (UZH) are working with Airbus on a project to artificially grow human tissue. The aim is to use human stem cells for the production of three-dimensional organoids. To achieve this, the team is carrying out experiments in space. “On Earth, three-dimensional organoids are impossible to produce without support and matrix structures due to Earth’s gravity”, explains biologist Cora Thiel in a press release.

In March 2020, a total of 250 test tubes containing human stem cells was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the project. This proved to be highly successful, with organ-like structures such as liver, bones and cartilage having been developed from these stem cells.

Now the focus will be on sending tissue stem cells from two women and two men of different ages into space. The aim here is to test how robust the method is when cells of diverse biological variability are used. The cells are set to return to Earth in early October, with initial findings then expected from November onwards.

“In view of future commercialization, we now need to find out how long and in what quality we can keep the organoids in culture after their return to Earth”, explains Oliver Ullrich, Professor of Anatomy at UZH. If successful, the technology will then be developed to the stage of operational maturity.

In future, space could become a workshop for human tissue, UZH writes in the press release. The tissues developed there could, for example, be used in the development of new drugs or even as building blocks for tissue replacement to treat damaged organs. At present, the number of organ donations is “far below” the level required to meet global demand.