the ISS National Lab Releases Request for Information to Enable Disease Model Research on the International Space Station

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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FL. (October 7, 2014) – The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (the ISS National Lab) today released a Request for Information (RFI) that seeks to identify animal models and cell-based models for use on the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory to improve understanding of human disease and drug screening. Based on responses to this RFI, the ISS National Lab plans to issue a future Request for Proposals (RFP) that will provide support for flight research on the ISS National Lab seeking to use animal or cell-based models in microgravity for human disease research that benefits life on Earth.

This RFI seeks to gather information from subject matter experts and entities with experience in human disease research, disease modeling, and translational medicine. The RFI asks these experts and entities to identify appropriate disease models for translational research in microgravity using animal models or cell-based models where outcomes may be extrapolated to homeostasis or disease in the whole animal. Specifically, the ISS National Lab is seeking to identify the best models that may accelerate space-based research in understanding human disease, identifying drug targets, and evaluating new therapeutics.

the ISS National Lab works closely with its Science and Technology Advisory Panel to identify and support new pathways to microgravity research for the life science community. the ISS National Lab has previously issued two RFP’s in the life sciences (Protein Crystal Growth and Stem Cell Research) and has brokered research investigations with commercial pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions that are utilizing the ISS National Lab to better understand human physiology and disease. This RFI seeks to inform a future RFP that will build on the research portfolio that the ISS National Lab continues to expand in the life and physical sciences.

“Through this RFI, the ISS National Lab hopes to better understand what researchers need to conduct world-class disease model research onboard the ISS,” said the ISS National Lab Director of Portfolio Management Warren Bates. “The responses we receive will enable increased use of ISS for research aimed at improving human health on Earth.”

The RFI will be open until 5pm EST on November 14, 2014. For additional information about this RFI, including instructions on submitting a white paper, please visit:

Identification of Animal Models and Cell-based Models for Improved Understanding of Human Disease and Drug Screening on the International Space Station U.S. National Laboratory

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About the ISS National Lab: The Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (the ISS National Lab) was selected by NASA in July 2011 to maximize use of the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory through 2020. the ISS National Lab is dedicated to supporting and accelerating innovations and new discoveries that will enhance the health and wellbeing of people and our planet. For more information, visit issnationallab.org.

About the ISS National Laboratory: In 2005, Congress designated the U.S. portion of the International Space Station as the nation’s newest national laboratory to maximize its use for improving life on Earth, promoting collaboration among diverse users, and advancing STEM education. This unique laboratory environment is available for use by other U.S. government agencies and by academic and private institutions, providing access to the permanent microgravity setting, vantage point in low Earth orbit, and varied environments of space.

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