The Future of Organ Transplants Might Be in Space
take shape: to start to develop a clear form or structure
Scientists are working to grow tiny livers in space. These tiny organs, called organoids, could help people with liver disease one day. In space, there is low gravity, which makes it easier for cells to grow. On the International Space Station, scientists hope the liver cells will take shape in ways that aren’t possible on Earth.
Dr. Tammy Chang, who is part of this project, explains that growing tissue on Earth is hard. Gravity pulls cells down in the lab, which can cause problems. However, in space, cells float and are free to form complex structures. After two weeks in space, scientists will bring the liver tissues back to Earth to study them.
The ISS has already helped scientists study how cancer cells and brain cells respond in space. Soon, it might also help us grow new organs.
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The garden started to take shape after weeks of planting flowers and trees.
Over time, the team’s new project started to take shape, and they felt proud of their progress.
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Astronauts to grow livers in space, where microgravity might help them thrive