Compression Device for 3D Spheroids in Microgravity

Abstract

As space travel and space colonization become increasingly feasible, there is recent interest in the physiological impacts of changes in cellular systems induced by micro gravity. The Liu group is in collaboration with the Center for Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) to examine cellular mechanotransduction of human osteoblasts on the International Space Station. Part of this project aims to develop a device that can apply a compressive load in microgravity to 3D spheroids (aggregates of cells) embedded in hydrogel. This project aims to design a compressive device compatible with microgravity condition that would provide pre-defined strains to the 3D spheroids.