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Overview of ISS Research Benefits to Human Health
The International Space Station is a unique laboratory for performing investigations that affect human health both in space and on Earth. Throughout its assembly, the space station has supported research that is providing a better understanding of certain aspects of human health, such as aging, trauma, disease and the environment. Several biological and human physiological investigations have yielded important results, including improved understanding of basic physiological processes normally masked by gravity and development of new medical technology and protocols driven by the need to support astronaut health. Advances in telemedicine, disease models, psychological stress response systems, nutrition, cell behavior and environmental health are just a few examples of benefits that have been gained from the unique space station microgravity environment..News and Features
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neuroArm: Robotic Arms Lend Healing Touch
The delicate touch that successfully removed Paige Nickason's brain tumor got a helping hand from a world-renowned arm -- a robotic arm, that is.
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Preventing Bone Loss in Space Flight
Bone loss and kidney stones are well known as essential problems for astronauts to overcome during extended stays in space.
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High-Quality Protein Crystal Growth Experiment Onboard "Kibo"
The vast universe and proteins used to form our bodies are not as unrelated as they may sound -- a "crystal" is the key to connect the two.
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Are You Asthmatic? Your New Helper Comes From Space
Kalle, a 10-year-old boy, is already in favor of space technology. In the future, he could control his asthma with a small device also used by crew members on board the International Space Station.
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Add Salt? Astronauts' Bones Say Please Don't
Osteoporosis is a harsh disease that reduces the quality of life for millions. Fortunately, research done in space may change the game.
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International Space Station Plays Role in Vaccine Development
Have you ever been afflicted with a case of food poisoning so awful it made you stop to wonder why no one's found a cure yet? The evolution of vaccine development is being streamlined with the help of the International Space Station.
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Advanced Ultrasound for the Space Program and on Earth
A patient's location at the time of a medical crisis often determines their pain and suffering and even their chances of survival. Providing medical care in remote communities, such as the International Space Station crew, is particularly challenging.
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Early Detection of Immune Changes Prevents Shingles
Stress associated with spaceflight can reactivate the virus that causes shingles, a disease punctuated by painful skin lesions.
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Cancer Treatment Delivery
Humanity is on the constant search for improvements in cancer treatments, and the International Space Station has provided a microgravity platform that has enabled advancements in the treatment process.
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Advanced NASA Technology Supports Water Purification Efforts Worldwide
Drinkable water is vital for human survival. Using technology developed for the space station, at-risk areas can now gain access to advanced water filtration and purification systems, making life-saving differences.
More About Space Station Research
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Space Station
for ResearchersDiscover how NASA partners with industry, academia and federal, state, regional and local entities for research and development.
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Space Station
for KidsAre you a student interested in some of the cool experiments and activities related to space station science and technology? Visit us here.
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Space Station
for EducatorsAre you an educator ideas for projects or experiments that could be done on ISS? Interested in getting involved in ISS educational programs? Want useful media to explain microgravity concepts and activities? Visit us here.
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Station Research Benefits
Several patents and applications have already demonstrated Earth benefits of the public's investment in ISS research.
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