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| Space Flight and Immune Functions |
| DSO 498 |
| Principal Investigator: Duane L. Pierson, Ph.D. |
| Overview |
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Scientists expect the essential functions of neutrophils, monocytes, and cytotoxic cells (lymphokine-activated and natural killer cells) to be altered during space flight. This DSO will let them know if they are right. This project will characterize the effects of space flight on selected immune elements that are important in maintaining an effective defense against infectious agents. The roles of neutrophils, monocytes, and cytotoxic cells--all important elements of the immune response--have not been studied adequately in the U.S. space program. Therefore, these studies complement ongoing and previous investigations in space immunology. The specific objectives of the experiment will prove or disprove the hypothesis: (1) analyze the function of neutrophils and monocytes before and after space flight, and (2) assess cytotoxic cells and cytokine production before and after space flight. As astronauts work and live in the relatively crowded, closed environment of spacecraft on longer and longer missions, the risk of infectious disease increases. The human immune system plays a pivotal role in preventing infectious illnesses, but the effects of space flight on the immune response are not fully understood. This DSO is designed to determine the functional status of important elements of the immune response during STS-99, which should provide valuable data for assessments of infectious disease risks on long-duration space missions. Understanding the clinically relevant changes, if any, will allow scientists to develop suitable countermeasures that minimize risk. |
Editorial/Technical Comments: ShuttlePresskit
