A review of microgravity biotechnology
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and other space agencies have been involved in microgravity biotechnology research for more than a decade. Macromolecular crystal growth, cell culturing, and gene expression/transgenics research have yielded new and exciting information. It appears that gravity affects a number of fundamental biological processes. The ability to access microgravity on the U.S. Space Shuttle has allowed investigators to study the role of gravity in various biotechnology systems. The International Space Station (ISS) will provide a sophisticated laboratory for the long-duration studies that are required to accelerate progress in these research disciplines. This paper reviews some of the highlights and future potential of NASA's biotechnology program. © Release A.
