Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31815: Investigating Genetic Pathways in Space: The PAthway DIfferent ACtivators Experiment

The PAthway DIfferent ACtivators (PADAC) experiment represents a novel approach to understanding how spaceflight conditions affect cellular behavior and gene expression. Under the guidance of Dr. Isabelle Walther at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, the project explores how different biochemical activators influence genetic pathways under microgravity.

Cells rely on specific signaling pathways to respond to their environment. These pathways guide processes such as cell division, differentiation, and response to stress. In space, these processes may be altered due to the absence of gravity and exposure to radiation. PADAC is designed to monitor how cells activate different genetic pathways in space when exposed to various stimuli.

By introducing different activators to biological samples aboard the ISS, the experiment evaluates how these triggers affect gene expression and cellular functions in microgravity. This information is vital to understanding how the space environment can accelerate aging processes, alter immune responses, or impact cellular repair mechanisms.

Results from PADAC contribute to both biomedical science and space health. On Earth, this research supports the development of new pharmaceuticals and therapeutic approaches. In space, it helps design better life support systems and medical protocols for astronauts.

PADAC is another example of how space laboratories enable experiments that are nearly impossible to perform on Earth, pushing the boundaries of what we know about biology and medicine.

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