Hilde Stenuit:  How new drugs could come from space

 How new drugs could come from space

Space exploration is more than studying stars or landing on Mars; it’s also a new testing ground for cutting-edge solutions to Earth’s greatest problems. High above Earth’s surface, researchers are using orbital microgravity to conduct exciting new science. Astrophysicist Hilde Stenuit explains how microgravity allows scientists to bypass Earthly limitations – and how space lab innovations might revolutionize healthcare.

Microgravity on the International Space Station offers a unique environment that helps scientists overcome barriers found in Earth-based labs. Protein crystals grown in orbit emerge larger and more precise, revealing vital details for drug design. Miniature organs and even 3D-printed tissues can form more naturally in space, offering new ways to test treatments and an alternative to animal testing. This new frontier may soon make personalized organ printing a reality for patients on Earth.