[Fish Scales]
Investigation of the Osteoclastic and Osteoblastic Responses to Microgravity Using Goldfish Scales

Biology and Biotechnology

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SCIENCE OBJECTIVES FOR EVERYONE

Investigation of the Osteoclastic and Osteoblastic Responses to Microgravity Using Goldfish Scales (Fish Scales) will examine regenerating scales collected from anesthetized goldfish in microgravity using the Cell Biology Experiment Facility (CBEF); the results will be compared with ground controls.

SCIENCE RESULTS FOR EVERYONE

There is something fishy about this investigation. Researchers examine regeneration of goldfish scales in microgravity to help understand bone loss in humans during space flights. A medicine similar to melatonin is also investigated for its effectiveness in reducing bone resorption, the process where bone cells break down and release calcium. Changes in the fish scales and results from ground studies on rats indicate that this drug could significantly increase bone mineral density, both in space and on the ground. The results could help future space explorers on long-duration missions and treatment of bone disease on Earth.

Experiment Description

RESEARCH OVERVIEW

In mammals bone is formed and maintained by continuous remodeling through bone resorption by resorptive cells, i.e., osteoclasts, and subsequent new bone formation by formative cells, i.e., osteoblasts.
Regulation of Bone Metabolism in Space: Analysis by an in vitro Assay System Using Goldfish Scale as a Model of Bone (Fish Scales) uses osteoblasts and osteoclasts in the regenerating scales of goldfish to examine the effect of microgravity on bone metabolism.

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PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR(S)

SUZUKI Nobuo [Kanazawa University]

JAXA’s Utilization Themes List

[Fish Scales]Investigation of the Osteoclastic and Osteoblastic Responses to Microgravity Using Goldfish Scales