Understanding structure of protein in human body critical to finding cure for cancer---microgravity research significantly curtailed by shuttle termination

Microgravity Sciences Research on the ISS

The term "Microgravity Sciences" will become more commonplace in the era of the International Space Station. The specific disciplines of Microgravity Science, which will be studied on the ISS, include fluid physics, materials science, combustion science and biotechnology.

Fluid physicists are working to advance science and technology by increasing our knowledge of fluid behaviour. Microgravity reduces or eliminates sedimentation and buoyancy-induced flows, as well as other behaviours caused by gravity, which mask important underlying phenomena.

Materials science encompasses the study of the structures, properties and processing of materials. Conducting materials science research in microgravity gives scientists a unique opportunity to isolate and control gravity-related phenomena as well as investigate phenomena and processes normally masked by gravity effects. Ultimately, this research may result in improvements to production methods and materials on Earth. Better electronic devices, improved optical fibres for telecommunication, optoelectronic and photonic devices, and even bio-ceramic artificial bones are possible outcomes.

Combustion research in microgravity may lead to enhanced energy efficiency and reduced pollution, improved processes for making high technology materials, and advances in fire safety for space flight.

The primary area of biotechnology that will be researched on ISS is crystal growth of biological materials (or protein crystal growth). Protein crystal growth is essential in understanding the structure and function of proteins. Protein crystals grown in microgravity conditions can have larger molecular size and greater perfection than those grown on Earth. These characteristics make determining their structure with X-ray diffraction much more effective. Once the structure is known, it may be possible to produce more effective medicines with reduced side effects. In addition, research on the ISS may prove helpful in understanding the structure of proteins in the human body as part of the international human genome project.

Canadian technology will ensure that microgravity experiments are not hampered by high vibration levels expected on the ISS. The Microgravity Vibration Isolation Mount (MIM) was developed over the past 10 years by the Canadian Space Agency. MIM provides isolation for a payload from the vibrations present on an orbiting spacecraft. Such isolation is considered to be essential for experiments that need true microgravity.

The ISS will be the only permanent laboratory where experiments can be conducted in the absence of gravity. By taking advantage of the research opportunities available to us on this unique space laboratory, we open the door to potential exciting new discoveries about the basic nature of things, be they human, non-human or non-living.