SE Valley Times

A team at Arizona State University (ASU) is working on developing radiation-resistant stem cells that could potentially protect astronauts from the harmful effects of space radiation. Led by Kamesh Narasimhan, an associate research scientist and synthetic biologist at ASU's Beyond Center, the team's goal is to make long-duration space missions safer by using these specially engineered stem cells.

The NeoMatter team will present their findings at the Space-Edge Virtual Showcase on January 21. This event will feature 17 teams from various states, showcasing their work to a panel of experts in space and healthcare, as well as potential financial backers.

Jessica Rousset, director of ASU’s Interplanetary Initiative, highlighted the importance of such innovations for future human space exploration: “We are going to be sending more humans into space, so their health is going to be critical. Innovations to keep humans healthy are going to be critical.”

Astronauts face higher levels of radiation in space compared to Earth, which increases their risk of developing certain cancers. Initially focused on creating materials for shielding against this radiation, Narasimhan's team shifted towards engineering stem cells with protective properties during a three-month accelerator program.

“We are actually making human cells and sort of endowing them with the property of radiation shielding,” said Narasimhan. He believes these cells could extend mission durations by reducing cancer risks for astronauts.

The process involves taking stem cells from astronauts, modifying them for radiation protection, and storing them in banks carried aboard spacecraft. According to Narasimhan, "One of the things that we anticipate astronauts are going to encounter is that blood cells are the first to be affected by radiation."

While spacecraft shields offer some protection against radiation, they have limitations. The enhanced protection offered by these engineered stem cells would be crucial for longer missions.

Before application in space missions, this technology must undergo testing on Earth. Narasimhan notes its dual potential: aiding patients undergoing radiation therapy and extending astronaut health during missions.

Looking ahead, Narasimhan envisions further advancements stemming from this research: “I know that’s out there,” he said about printing organs in space and enabling surgeries. However, he remains optimistic about starting with stem cell technology as a foundation for future developments.