By- Srushti sharma
In the first study suggesting that human reproduction in space might be possible in the near future
mouse embryos were cultured aboard the International Space Station and matured normally.
In August 2021, a team from the Japan Aerospace Space Agency (JAXA) launched frozen mouse embryos to the International Space Station (ISS).
Using a unique tool made for the purpose, astronauts froze the early-stage embryos and raised them on the station for four days.
The embryos grown in microgravity environments "grew normally into blastocysts, which are the cells that become the placenta and foetus."
The experiment "clearly demonstrated that there was no discernible effect of gravity."
After analysing the blastocysts that were returned to their Earthly laboratories, they also stated that no appreciable alterations had occurred to the state of the DNA or genes.
According to this study, "mammals may be able to thrive in space for the first time."
The initial global trial that cultivated primate mammalian embryos in total microgravity on the International Space Station
The initial global trial that cultivated primate mammalian embryos in total microgravity on the International Space Station
Such studies may be crucial for upcoming missions aimed at colonising and exploring space.