Germs in space

Translating spaceflight experimental discoveries to the clinical bedside

Spaceflight has been shown to induce key changes in both human and microbial cells that are directly relevant to infectious disease, including changes in immune system function, microbial growth rates, antibiotic resistance, and cell surface properties—which are not observed when cells are grown under conventional laboratory conditions. Thus, the potential benefit that our pioneering spaceflight research holds for translation to the clinical bedside is providing a better understanding of how pathogens cause disease that will lead to new ways to treat, prevent and diagnose infectious disease.

 

This project team, led by Cheryl Nickerson, PhD, has been at the forefront on studying the risks of germs associated with spaceflight to the health and well being of the crew. Prior studies have indicated that spaceflight weakens the human immune system and that some microbes become more virulent when grown under conditions that simulate spaceflight, thus increasing the risk of astronauts becoming sick during flight. Whatever the mission or its duration, microbes are present where there are human beings.

From several space shuttle missions, our research team has generated compelling evidence that the unique environment of spaceflight provides important insight into a variety of fundamental human health issues with tremendous potential for the commercial development of novel enabling technologies to enhance human health here on Earth. Key molecular targets have been identified that we are translationally pursuing as lead candidates for the development of new strategies to combat infectious disease. When taken together, these studies will ultimately provide significant insights into the molecular basis of microbial virulence.

Our investigators believe that information gained from these studies will prove beneficial in assessing microbiological risks and options for reducing those risks during crew missions.  Spaceflight holds tremendous potential as a research platform for the development of novel therapeutics, vaccines and diagnostics to treat, prevent and control infectious diseases.