A 3D Hydrogel Model to Assess Endothelial Cell-macrophage Interactions in Simulated Microgravity (OR-DRPD-SRI2019)

While some knowledge has been gained with regards to macrophage alterations during space travel, most of this work has been limited to macrophage cell lines and has not considered how the effects of microgravity alter macrophages' ability to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. Specifically, how the macrophage secretion profile and/or interaction with endothelial cells is altered during microgravity culture. Given the extensive data showing the consequence of simulated microgravity to alter endothelial cells, and the mounting evidence that simulated microgravity affects macrophage cells, the investigators hypothesize that microgravity alters the functional response of macrophages in close association with endothelial cells. To test this hypothesis, the study team has established 2 specific aims: Specific Aim 1: Assess the effect of simulated microgravity on endothelial and macrophage pro-healing states. Specific Aim 2: Assess the effect of simulated microgravity on the pro-healing states of 3-dimensional co-cultured macrophages and endothelial cells. Completion of the above described aims will lay a strong foundation of knowledge about the impact of simulated microgravity in important cell-cell interactions involved in tissue regeneration and healing