Xenopus laevis – a success story of biological research in space

摘要: The clawed toad Xenopus laevis is a common experimental animal used in many disciplines of life sciences, such as integrative, developmental and molecular biology or medicine. Since 30 years, biological research space. Important milestones were the years 1975, when embryos flew for first time on Russian space station Salut-4 1994, eggs successfully fertilized during Japanese Spacelab mission STS-47 developed microgravity to vital tadpoles. Most studies related embryogenesis development. Observations after altered gravity revealed changes thickening blastocoel roof, dorsalization tail, modifications vestibular reflexes, fictive freely swimming. Many reversible even exposure. Studies about vestibuloocular reflex synapse formation an age-related sensitivity gravity. offers useful tools effects living systems. Its oocyte suitable model study ion channel function space; can be analyse growth factor sensibilities. Hardware support adults, tadpoles (cf. SUPPLY unit combination with miniaquaria) well controlled experiments are prerequisites extension Xenopus. application aspect based fact that fundamental per se brings benefit man.