What could be happening to Sunita Williams’ brain in ISS? Research unveils shocking findings
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Brain Shift
Brain organoids sent to the ISS matured faster than their Earth-bound counterparts, revealing surprising insights into how microgravity affects brain development.
Unexpected Survival
“The fact that these cells survived in space was a big surprise,” says Jeanne Loring, co-senior author of the study, hinting at the resilience of brain cells in microgravity.
Accelerated Maturity
Microgravity sped up cellular development. Organoids from space displayed faster neuronal specialization compared to their Earth-bound twins, as detailed in Stem Cells Translational Medicine.
Gene Revelation
Microgravity-exposed cells showed higher maturity-related gene expression and reduced proliferation—offering clues about space’s role in neurological development.
Less Inflammation
Contrary to expectations, organoids grown in space exhibited lower inflammation and stress-related gene activity. Scientists are delving into why microgravity reduces these markers.
Independent Growth
Organoids in microgravity thrived without external flushing, forming independent “brainlets” that mimic real brain microenvironments more closely than lab-grown organoids.
Innovative Method
To adapt to space conditions, researchers developed smaller organoids in cryovials, enabling nutrient management without manual intervention aboard the ISS.
Expanding Research
Loring’s team plans to study Alzheimer’s-impacted brain regions next. With no prior data, their ISS missions mark the frontier of neurological space research.
Groundbreaking Impacts
With five ISS missions completed, scientists explore whether neurons form different connections in space—a leap toward understanding the brain’s reaction to unique environments.