[Dome Gene]
Control of cell differentiation and morphogenesis of amphibian culture cells

SCIENCE RESULTS FOR EVERYONE

To fully understand how microgravity affects human health, and develop effective countermeasures to those effects, scientists need to know what is happening to the cells in the body. This investigation looks at the genes that respond to gravitational changes and ways to control those responses, in particular formation of “domes,” fluid-filled structures that spontaneously form in cell cultures of a particular kidney cell line. Early results indicate microgravity exerted little influence on the structure of the cells or their gene behavior, and that space radiation appear to have a greater impact than microgravity. This investigation’s innovative methodology may prove useful in other scientific disciplines such as radiation biology and developmental biology.