The effect of microgravity on embryonic chick bone cells: results from nasa mission sts-59 (stlih-c1)

摘要

The vertebrate skeletal system is known to adapt in resonse to external environmental forces (loading or unloading) such as those exerted by mechanical effects, gravity, buoyancy, or other factors. The adaptation is not clearly understood although it appears to be mediated ultimately at the cellular level of skeletal structure. In this context, a model calcifying system, that of a primary osteoblast cell culture derived from normal embryonic chicken bones (calvaria) and studied extensively at 1G, has been flown aboard Endeavour during STS-59 (April 9-20, 1994) to characterize microgravity effects on the bone cells. Any potential alterations in the cultured cells in such an unloaded state may provide insight into the nature and function of the cells under normal gravitational conditions.