News Summary
NASA’s 33rd SpaceX commercial resupply mission is set to launch soon, transporting experiments from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. Led by Dr. Abba Zubair, the research will focus on understanding bone loss in microgravity, which has implications for both astronauts and those suffering from osteoporosis on Earth. This collaboration highlights the vital intersection of space exploration and health research, as insights gained could potentially lead to improved treatments for bone health issues.
Jacksonville
NASA’s 33rd SpaceX commercial resupply mission is scheduled to launch early Sunday morning, with experiments from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville set to be conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This endeavor marks a significant collaboration between the space agency and the medical research community, focusing on health issues that affect astronauts and the general population.
Dr. Abba Zubair, a physician, scientist, and dean of the medical school at Mayo Clinic, is overseeing the research initiative. The primary objective of the study is to investigate new therapies for bone loss, especially evaluating the behavior of bone-forming stem cells in a microgravity environment. This research is particularly important as approximately one percent of bone mass is lost by astronauts each month while they are in space.
As part of the experiment, a specific compound will be tested that may have the capability to block or slow down the loss of bone mass. Dr. Zubair anticipates that the findings from this research could lead to advancements in the treatment of diseases such as osteoporosis, which affect millions of individuals on Earth.
Nasa has acknowledged its commitment to improving astronaut health as a priority, prompting the decision to consult with Dr. Zubair for his expertise in the field. This partnership has evolved since Dr. Zubair began focusing on this specific area of study in 2017. Growing up in Nigeria, he developed a fascination with space and the stars, which has fueled his passion for exploring human health in space.
While Dr. Zubair will remain on Earth during the mission, he has prepared two astronauts who will carry out the experiments while onboard the ISS. The upcoming launch is set for 2:45 a.m. on Sunday morning, with astronauts expected to spend around one month in space conducting various research activities.
This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of space exploration and medical research, underlining the importance of understanding the effects of space travel on the human body. As this study progresses, it could significantly influence both astronaut health and the management of bone health issues on Earth, paving the way for improved treatment options for conditions related to bone density and strength.
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Additional Resources
- News4Jax
- Wikipedia: Bone Health
- First Coast News
- Google Search: NASA astronaut health
- SpaceNews
- Google Scholar: NASA health research
- JD News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Osteoporosis
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
