Bioprocessing in space: human cells attach to beads in microgravity

Attachment to a substrate and survival of human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells have been tested in an incubator installed in the flight-deck of the Space Shuttle 'Challenger' during its eighth mission. HEK cells are producing the enzyme urokinase and are presently investigated as candidates for electrophoretic separation in an apparatus developed and manufactured by McDonnell Douglas. Attachment of HEK cells to a substrate is mandatory for survival and production of urokinase after electrophoretic separation. Analysis of the samples shows that cells adhere, spread and survive in microgravity (< 10(-3) x g) conditions as well as the ground controls at 1 x g. This result represents an important step towards further bioprocessing in space.