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T0276-S

Electrophysiology Recording of Neuronal Networks During Suborbital Spaceflight

PI: Candice Hovell, IMEC USA Nanoelectronics Design Center, Inc., Binata Joddar (Co-I), University of Texas - El Paso

The Electrophysiology Recording of Neuronal Networks During Suborbital Spaceflight demonstration will assess the ability of an electrophysiological measurement system to monitor live neuronal networks in space. During a Blue Origin suborbital rocket flight, a commercial electrophysiology measurement platform will monitor a culture of neurons and collect data for post flight analysis. The objectives of the experiment are to validate the measurement platform in space and also to analyze the electrophysiology data collected in various gravity conditions.

Technology Areas (?)
  • NA
Problem Statement

Understanding the effects of spaceflight on human cells and organ systems is crucial to preserving human health through prolonged space travel. Current studies of electrically active cells are limited to an assessment of the whole organism before, during, and after flight. This technology provides the continual monitoring of electrically active human cell cultures through the variable gravity conditions of spaceflight.

Technology Maturation

This electrophysiology data collection platform is expected to mature to TRL 7 after validation during suborbital flight. The demonstration will also create a preliminary dataset to assess the effects of microgravity on neuronal network function.

Future Customers

•Neuroscience, cardiology, and electrophysiology research
•Lab-on-a-chip research for organs and tissues
•Stem cell biology and regenerative medicine
•Drug development and drug toxicity screening

Technology Details

  • Selection Date
    TechFlights20 (Sep 2020)
  • Program Status
    Active
  • Current TRL (?)
    Unknown
    Successful FOP Flights
  • 0 sRLV

Development Team

Web Accessibility and Privacy Notices Curator: Alexander van Dijk Responsible NASA Official: Stephan Ord Last Update: November 16, 2018