Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Bone Marrow-derived Macrophage Production
Published on: November 22, 2013
The effect of space and parabolic flight on macrophage hematopoiesis and function
J W Armstrong1, R A Gerren, S K Chapes
1Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506-4901.
Abstract:
We used weak electric fields to monitor macrophage spreading in microgravity. Using this technique, we demonstrated that bone marrow-derived macrophages responded to microgravity within 8 s. We also showed that microgravity differentially altered two processes associated with bone marrow-derived macrophage development. Spaceflight enhanced cellular proliferation and inhibited differentiation. These data indicate that the space/microgravity environment significantly affects macrophages.
Related Concept Videos
Differentiation of Common Myeloid Progenitor Cells
Regulation of Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Role of Hematopoietic Growth Factors
Thrombopoietin (TPO), mainly released by the liver,...

