Robert Hinshaw
NASA Ames Research Center
We propose to pioneer a radically new approach to mitigating radiation-induced cell damage in astronauts by transplanting new undamaged mitochondria (critical radiation-sensitive cell organelles) isolated from each individual pre-exposure. We will investigate this fundamental emerging concept in medicine in the space radiation context, study cell responses to relevant radiation levels, and design a preliminary system to extract, isolate, and shield mitochondria for therapeutic use during travel in deep space. Chronic exposure to deep space radiation remains among the least mitigated threats to long-term human habitation in space, and a large meta-analysis of flight and ground analog experiments has indicated mitochondrial dysfunction as a shared mechanism of spaceflight-induced changes in the body. Using in vitro human cell models, we will demonstrate the ability of this targeted mitochondria replacement therapy to restore cellular function after both acute and chronic radiation exposure and assess the dosage and timing required for effective treatment. Using this data, we will create a preliminary system design for using this therapy in flight. This reduction in radiation risk will help safeguard human health in space enabling new classes of longer duration crewed missions such as sustained lunar campaigns, missions to Mars, and even direct human exploration of the outer solar system. Beyond NASA, this technology has the potential to help treat a multitude of age-related degenerative diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction such as many cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer’s disease, improving health for humanity as a whole.
