Impact of Radiation Exposure on a 3D In Vitro Model of Human Bone Marrow

Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)

Description

Focused Investigation Project

The primary goal of this project is to characterize the impact of acute ionizing radiation (at levels that mimic deep space exploration) on the health and function of a human bone marrow using a microphysiological system model of human marrow (“bone marrow-on-a-chip” or BMoaC). The high significance of this project is derived from the unique and potentially dangerous levels of ionizing radiation exposure for astronauts on deep space missions, and the highly radio-sensitive features of human bone marrow, in particular the hematopoietic stem cell. Recent reports in simple monolayer culture systems suggest that both the hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and the supporting stromal cells (e.g., mesenchymal stem cell, MSC) are acutely effected by ionizing radiation which not only disrupts hematopoiesis, but also increases the incidence of leukemias.

Specific Aim: Determine a dose-response curve between ionizing radiation (proton) and normal biological function of human bone marrow (leukocyte production) using a microphysiological system model of human bone marrow.

Benefits

The potential impact of the research lies in the use of a human bone marrow model, and the demonstration that the production and release of CD15+ (neutrophils) cells may be quite sensitive to doses that exceed 1 Gy. This is relevant as 1 Gy is the anticipated dose to astronauts on a mission to Mars and back.

Details

Technology area	Human Health, Life Support, and Habitation Systems > Radiation > Radiation Transport and Risk Modeling
Program	Human Research Program (HRP)
Lead organization	Translational Research Institute for Space Health, Houston, TX
Start date	2019-06-01
End date	2020-08-31

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Steven M George
Eric Prebys

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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