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Amphibian development in the virtual absence of gravity
K A Souza1, S D Black, R J Wassersug
1Ames Research Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Moffett Field, CA 94035.
Summary
Amphibian development can occur in space. Xenopus laevis frogs ovulated and developed into larvae without significant gravity, showing vertebrates can reproduce in microgravity.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Space biology
- Comparative physiology
Background:
- Understanding the role of gravity in vertebrate development is crucial for space exploration.
- Amphibians, with their external fertilization and development, are ideal models for studying gravity's effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if gravity is essential for normal amphibian development.
- To investigate the capacity for ovulation and embryonic development in a microgravity environment.
Main Methods:
- Xenopus laevis females were induced to ovulate on the Space Shuttle.
- Eggs were fertilized in vitro in orbit.
- Embryonic development was monitored in microgravity.
Main Results:
- Early embryonic stages exhibited some abnormalities.
- Embryos demonstrated regulatory capacity, developing into nearly normal larvae.
- Vertebrates can ovulate and develop to a free-living stage in the absence of significant gravity.
Conclusions:
- Gravity is not strictly required for successful amphibian ovulation and development to a free-living larval stage.
- Xenopus laevis serves as a viable model for studying vertebrate development in space.
- These findings support the potential for reproduction in space for certain vertebrate species.
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