Abstract

Living and working in space presents many challenges for maintenance of optimal human physiology and psychology. The physical effects of microgravity and increased radiation exposure together with the psychological effects of isolation on human beings pose problems which are under intense investigation by global space agencies, corporate and academic research institutions. An unsurmountable challenge, at least today, for deep space exploration and colonisation (DSEC) is the longevity of human lifespan and the potential for organ system dysfunction which may lead to premature death and mission termination in the absence of bio-reparative capabilities. The unique nature of microgravity encountered in space provides both a challenge and an opportunity for regenerative medicine that cannot be fully replicated on Earth. This minireview describes some recent advances in the use of stem cells, tissue engineering and the potential for 3D bioprinting in space as future concepts for consideration in the design of missions supporting longer term space exploration and colonisation.