Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32365: Exploring Space-Driven Cell Behavior: The FARAGIS Experiment

Continuing the exploration into how microgravity alters cellular processes, the STaARS BioScience-8-Gene Control Prime-FARAGIS experiment delved into the molecular signals that guide our cells’ responses to stress.

Also led by Dr. Oliver Ullrich of the University of Zurich, FARAGIS investigated whether specific molecular pathways are altered in space. While EPICON looked at gene expression, FARAGIS focused on gene regulation—how cells decide what genes to use and when.

Using specialized cell cultures onboard the International Space Station, FARAGIS tracked how certain genetic instructions are carried out differently in the absence of gravity. Think of it like reading a recipe: FARAGIS wanted to know if space changes how cells read and follow those instructions.

Why does this matter? Because understanding these pathways can help us manage stress-related cellular damage—an issue not just in space, but in aging, chronic illness, and even cancer treatment. If we can control how cells respond to stress, we can better protect human health.

FARAGIS also provides essential knowledge for long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Knowing how space affects our cells at the regulatory level allows mission planners to design better countermeasures—whether it's exercise routines, special diets, or medications.

This experiment reminds us that science in orbit isn’t just science fiction—it’s the frontier of cellular biology.

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