Optimization of Rotating Bioreactor Geometry for Osteoblast Proliferation in Space Microgravity
Year: 2026
Type: other
Abstract: Microgravity during long-duration spaceflight presents a major challenge to astronaut health because it accelerates bone loss and reduces the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for forming new bone tissue. As future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond become more realistic, developing effective ways to study and reduce bone deterioration in space has become an important research goal. One promising approach is the use of rotating bioreactors, which create simulated microgravity environments on Earth and allow researchers to study how cells respond to reduced gravity under controlled laboratory conditions. The effectiveness of these systems depends largely on bioreactor geometry, since the shape and rotational design affect fluid flow, nutrient and oxygen transport, scaffold suspension, and the mechanical forces experienced by cells. Different geometries, including cylindrical, spherical, and toroidal designs, can create different microenvironments that influence osteoblast proliferation. Rotating bioreactors that keep scaffolds in a stable free-fall suspension are expected to provide the best conditions for cell growth by improving nutrient diffusion while minimizing harmful shear stress. Larger aspect-ratio vessels and biaxial rotating systems may also improve cell distribution by promoting more uniform fluid circulation throughout the scaffold. This study examines how rotating bioreactor geometry influences osteoblast proliferation under simulated microgravity by evaluating the effects of scaffold suspension, rotation dynamics, and nutrient transport. It is hypothesized that geometries that are optimized specifically for efficient nutrient transport and low-shear fluid flow will support greater osteoblast proliferation and more uniform tissue development than less efficient designs. Understanding these relationships could contribute to the development of better strategies for reducing bone loss during long-term human space exploration.
Source: Figshare
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7222248344