The effects of microgravity on stem cells and the new insights it brings to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine

Life Sci Space Res (Amst). 2024 May:41:1-17. doi: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.01.001. Epub 2024 Jan 7.

Abstract

Conventional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture techniques may undergo modifications in the future, as life scientists have widely acknowledged the ability of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro culture systems to accurately simulate in vivo biology. In recent years, researchers have discovered that microgravity devices can address many challenges associated with 3D cell culture. Stem cells, being pluripotent cells, are regarded as a promising resource for regenerative medicine. Recent studies have demonstrated that 3D culture in microgravity devices can effectively guide stem cells towards differentiation and facilitate the formation of functional tissue, thereby exhibiting advantages within the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Furthermore, We delineate the impact of microgravity on the biological behavior of various types of stem cells, while elucidating the underlying mechanisms governing these alterations. These findings offer exciting prospects for diverse applications.

Keywords: 3D spheres; Microgravity; Stem cells; Tissue engineering.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Culture Techniques / methods
  • Cell Culture Techniques, Three Dimensional / methods
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Humans
  • Regenerative Medicine* / methods
  • Stem Cells* / cytology
  • Stem Cells* / physiology
  • Tissue Engineering* / methods
  • Weightlessness*