Payloads

Principal Investigator for this experiment is Millie Hughes-Fulford Ph.D. from Northern California Institute for Research and Education (NCIRE) and UCSF.

Objectives: Using a mouse experimental model, this set of experiments will test; 1) whether initial specific activation of T cells is intact and 2) whether memory T cell function is maintained during spaceflight.

Relevance: This experiment will contribute toward attaining a better understanding of how the immune system, responds to the microgravity environment. Spaceflight immunosuppression may be a significant obstacle to long-term human space travel. Of concern is whether astronauts/cosmonauts may be able to generate effective protective immune responses against infections while in space flight. Memory T cells are the mediators of immune protection after vaccinations and whether they function properly during spaceflight will determine if pre-flight vaccinations may be useful interventions.

Mice housed in Ames developed Animal Enclosure Modules (AEMs) will experience microgravity for 12 days on board the space shuttle The Animal Enclosure Modules that will house the mice for this experiment have been used successfully on 23 space shuttle flights. The animals adapt very well to this virtually self-contained system and require very little additional care. The crew will make daily health checks and will replenish the water supply as needed.

AEM in Middeck Locker With Muffler	AEM Overview and Air Flow System
AEM in Middeck Locker, front view	AEM ready for flight

Ames Mouse Immunology Project Team

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