Space cell physiology and space biotechnology in Russia.

Publisher Summary Space biotechnology is a complex of novel technologies aimed at the production in microgravity of bio-objects and unique biological materials, among them diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive preparations. This is one of the major areas of research aboard piloted orbital stations that will allow the use in microgravity of new methods for producing useful biosamples. Experimental research in the fields of cell physiology and biotechnology carried out by Russian scientists on the board the orbital station Mir has shown that the effects of space flight factors on cells and biotechnology processes are multicomponent and significant. They could increase the possibility of developing new strains and substances for medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. It could be said that the positive and negative experiences arising from space investigations in this field have brought about not only a new knowledge about the role of gravitational factors in cell processes, but also the creation of a new, young biological discipline—space biotechnology, which will expand on the International Space Station.