Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32087: Exploring NELL-1 Therapy for Osteoporosis in Microgravity

Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures, is a growing concern, particularly in aging populations. The experiment 'Systemic Therapy of NELL-1 for Osteoporosis' seeks to explore the potential of NELL-1, a protein involved in bone formation, as a therapeutic approach for osteoporosis in space. Led by Dr. Chia Soo from UCLA School of Medicine and developed in collaboration with BioServe Space Technologies, this research focuses on how microgravity might impact bone density and how NELL-1 could potentially reverse the bone loss associated with this condition. Conducted during NASA's Expedition 49/50, 51/52, and 53/54, the experiment investigates the effects of systemic therapy with NELL-1 on bone regeneration in a microgravity environment. The results could not only help astronauts prevent bone loss during space missions but also provide new insights into treating osteoporosis and related bone disorders on Earth. With an aging population increasingly affected by osteoporosis, this study could pave the way for groundbreaking therapies that enhance bone health and prevent fractures, both in space and on Earth.

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