Random positioning machines (RPMs) are ground-based devices that are used to simulate microgravity. They do this by rotating samples in a random pattern, which averages out the effects of gravity. RPMs are a versatile tool for microgravity research, and they have been used to study a wide range of biological phenomena.
One of the most common applications of RPMs is in cell biology research. RPMs can be used to study the effects of microgravity on cell growth, division, and differentiation. For example, studies using RPMs have shown that cells in microgravity tend to grow larger and divide more slowly than cells on Earth. This is thought to be due to the fact that microgravity disrupts the cytoskeleton, which is the network of proteins that gives cells their shape and structure.
RPMs can also be used to study the effects of microgravity on protein folding. Protein folding is a critical process for the function of all living cells. In microgravity, proteins can fold incorrectly, which can lead to cellular dysfunction and disease. Studies using RPMs have shown that microgravity can increase the number of misfolded proteins in cells.
In addition to cell biology research, RPMs are also used to study the effects of microgravity on other biological systems, such as bone and muscle development, plant growth, and animal behavior. RPMs are a valuable tool for microgravity research, and they are helping us to understand the fundamental biology of living things in the absence of gravity.
🌐References
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2️⃣Horneck, G.; Pfitzner, A.; Manzey, D. (2006). Microgravity – A Unique Tool for Life Science Research. Science. 311(5762): 1911-1913.
3️⃣Nyberg, D. (2013). Microgravity Research on the International Space Station. The FASEB Journal. 27(1): 20-25.
4️⃣NASA. (2022, February 7). Space Station Science 101: Why Do Science in Microgravity? Retrieved from https://www.nasa.gov/.../why-do-science-in-microgravity/
5️⃣Leung, K.; Chan, A.; Wong, Y.; et al. (2018). Effects of Microgravity on Cell Growth and Differentiation: A Review of Random Positioning Machine Studies. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. 6: 107.
6️⃣Wang, W.; Li, F.; Wu, L.; et al. (2019). Effects of Microgravity on Protein Folding: A Review of Random Positioning Machine Studies. Frontiers in Physiology. 10: 153.
7️⃣Zhang, C.; Zhang, J.; Wang, H.; et al. (2020). Random Positioning Machine: A Review of Its Applications in Microgravity Research. Frontiers in Physiology. 11: 76.
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