Research in space has evolved the last decades form basic science and medical investigations to more applied sciences, biotechnology and technology development. Since over 20 years the Space Biology Group of the ETHZ has been investigating the effect of low gravity on several biological systems. Its first interest is the human immune system. The second main involvement of the group is the development of specific instruments (bioreactors) for biotechnological experiments in space. The challenge of these developments is the small volume available, leading to the need of miniaturization, and the use of innovative technologies. Low gravity is not only a factor influencing the reaction of the cells but it could also be used to improve Earth-bound processes like formation of 3-D tissues.

Vortragssprache: englisch