NASA found that cells grown in space aboard the Space Shuttle displayed unique three-dimensional properties that result from growth in a gravity free environment. Developing cells with these properties is of significant value in furthering basic cell science. But, because Shuttle experiments are limited by physical space and operating time, it was necessary to develop a mechanism to screen and select the best cellular activity to be performed in orbit. Through the efforts of innovative scientists at NASA, a bioreactor was developed that simulates micro-gravity and enables three-dimensional cell growth. The resulting bioreactor now enables users to grow various cells for use in important clinical research on Earth.
