StellarHeal: The challenge of wound healing in space

A rocket launch as part of the REXUS program will put the StellarHeal wound-healing concept to the test under real spaceflight conditions for the first time. The goal is to assess its suitability for future spaceflights – with potential applications in medical care on Earth as well.

The rocket launch on March 12 at the Esrange Space Center in Sweden marks an important step in the development of new wound care technologies. On board was the THRIVE module containing components of the cell-based material StellarHeal, developed by Fraunhofer ISC, Fraunhofer ITEM, and ILK Dresden.

Conditions in space significantly impede wound healing. Microgravity impairs cell growth and organization, while radiation weakens the immune system. This can lead to delayed healing, infections, and increased scarring. At the same time, astronauts must be able to care for themselves as independently as possible.

The StellarHeal concept relies on a bioresorbable fiber matrix that combines several functions:

• Hemostasis without the need for additional dressing changes
• Integration of living skin cells and macrophages
• Adaptability to different wound types
• Radiation resistance for use in space

The combination of tissue engineering, cryotechnology, and biotechnology enables a new form of wound treatment that could potentially also be used for chronic wounds on Earth.

Project leader Dr. Dieter Groneberg describes what makes it unique: "The new wound care concept combines cell components derived from stem cells, known as fibroblasts from skin organoids and macrophages, with cell-carrying materials made of silica-gel fiber fleece and a cryogel. We don't yet know how the individual components will behave under the extreme conditions of a rocket launch, so this is a very exciting black box experiment for us!"

As part of the REXUS program, a specially developed transport module designed to protect sensitive biological components was tested. The goal is to analyze the resilience of stem cells and biomaterials under launch conditions.

A parallel comparison with a ground-based test allows researchers to precisely determine the effects of the rocket flight. Among other things, the module measures temperature profiles and acceleration forces.

The analysis of the THRIVE data forms the basis for further developments. Dr. Groneberg emphasizes: “We are all very excited about the evaluation of the THRIVE module after the REXUS flight. This will give us important insights for further development work.”

In the long term, StellarHeal could support both medical care in manned spaceflight and the treatment of complex wounds in everyday clinical practice.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC