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NASA, BIO Partner for BioSpace Research
NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe and Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) President Carl B. Feldbaum signed a memorandum of understanding this week to expand cooperation between NASA and the biotechnology industry.
Biotechnology research already is being integrated into NASA's programs. For example, the upcoming launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour to the International Space Station (ISS) will transport a biotechnology company's experiment to the station that will compare human liver-cell function in space with that on Earth. This research could aid in the development of treatments for people in need of liver transplants.
Feldbaum said at the signing, "This agreement underscores the existing convergence of space technology and biotechnology. We've already seen biotech research underway in space. This agreement will promote investment by the biotechnology industry in commercial space development for the benefit of patients, consumers and our economy."
The memorandum establishes three goals of collaboration:
- enhanced communication between NASA and industry;
- expanded commercial biotechnology space research and development; and
- formal and informal education of industry and the public regarding biotechnology and space research.
NASA will utilize space as a laboratory to test the fundamental principles of chemistry and biology, and BIO will provide the industry support needed to maximize both the research and potential commercial opportunities. NASA also will be participating at BIO conferences and meetings.