#149 | Mini-Brains in Space | Prof. Alysson Muotri, UC San Diego

Mini-brains in space. Did you know that we can study something called brain organoids, effectively mini-brains, in the special conditions in space, on the International Space Station, and that such studies may help us with diseases like Alzheimers, Autism or Parkinsons? My guest this week is Prof. Alysson Muotri from the University of California San Diego. He and his team have flown such brain organoids to the ISS many times already. Don’t miss this episode on what I consider one of the most exciting intersections of space and biology, and ultimately a potential source of massive positive impact right here on Earth!

🕰️ Timestamps:  00:00 Intro 00:29 Alysson Muotri 02:12 Understanding Brain Organoids 03:49 Stem Cells and Brain Organoids 10:31 Accelerated Aging in Space 14:18 Challenges and Discoveries in Space Research 17:33 Applications and Future Research 26:43 Neurodegenerative Diseases 27:27 Brain Organoids in Computing 29:25 Ethical Considerations of Brain Organoids 31:32 Regenerative Medicine and Brain Organoids 34:39 Brain Evolution and Neanderthal Genes 39:21 Space Research and Future Prospects 43:58 Challenges and Opportunities in Space Biology 47:22 Science-Fiction

 

🔗 UCSD Sanford Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research Center (ISSCOR)

🏠Website :  https://stemcells.ucsd.edu/centers/sanford-integrated-space-stem-cell-orbital-research-center/index.html

 

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To Learn more about Space & the Space Economy:

1. "To Infinity" – Raphael’s Revised Introduction to the Space Economy This book provides an insightful look into the space economy, its current trends, and future opportunities. 📚 https://a.co/d/6jIQ2LO
2.  edX/EPFL's Space Economy MOOC This course offers a detailed understanding of the New Space Economy, covering key concepts and market developments. 🎓 https://www.edx.org/course/new-space-
3. Space Business Newsletter 📬 https://spacebusiness.substack.com/