In vitro cultured cells as probes for space radiation effects on biological systems

Near future scenarios of long-term and far-reaching manned space missions, require more extensive knowledge of all possible biological consequences of space radiation, particularly in humans, on both a long-term and a shea-te rm basis. In vitro cultured cells have significantly contributed to the tremendous ad vancement of biomedical research. It is therefore to be expected that simpl e biological systems such as cultured cells, will contribute to space biome dical sciences. Space represents a novel environment, to which life has not been previously exposed. Both microgravity and space radiation are the two relevant compon ents of such an environment, but biological adaptive mechanisms and efficie nt countermeasures can significantly minimize microgravity effects. On the other hand, it is felt that space radiation risks may be more relevant and that defensive strategies can only stem from our deeper knowledge of biolog ical effects and of cellular repair mechanisms. Cultured cells may play a key role in such studies. Particularly, thyroid c ells may be relevant because of the exquisite sensitivity of the thyroid gl and to radiation. In addition, a clone of differentiated, normal thyroid fo llicular cells (FRTL5 cells) is available in culture, which is well charact erized and particularly fit for space research. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B .V. All rights reserved.