Drug Diffusion Across Cell Membranes

University of Texas - Austin

We propose to study drug diffusion across cell membranes under microgravity conditions. Specifically we propose to identify changes in transport across the membranes of HL-60 cells regulated by membrane proteins such as p-glycoprotein which is responsible for multi-drug resistance. Based upon results from experiments flown on STS-67, 69, 77, and 80 we anticipate that transport will be inhibited. However, we were not able to measure immediate effects on the cell in these experiments flown on the Space Shuttle because days rather than minutes passed between manipulation of the robots.

This proposed experiment will enable us to identify changes in drug diffusion which occur over a short time period. Equipment for use on the flight have been kindly provided by the Consortium for Materials Development in Space. This equipment allow the drug to be mixed with the cell cultures upon reaching microgravity by depression of a plunger. Further, the cells may be fixed while still at microgravity by depressing a second plunger. Controls will be conducted on board the aircraft while the cells are exposed to 1 g. All fluids are triply contained and have been approved by NASA for use on the Space Shuttle. The equipment has also been approved by NASA for use on the Space Shuttle and has flown on Shuttle flights including STS-52 and STS-80.

Visit our web site at: UT Pharmacy Microgravity

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Last Modified: Tue May 19 1998
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