Axiom advances space health technology and cancer research with AX 4 mission
Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) May 5, 2025
Axiom Space is undergoing research on redefining orbit through its fourth entry into the International Space Station (Axiom Mission 4 (AX-4). This milestone mission is the most scientific project of axioms ever, with approximately 60 surveys representing 31 countries. Participating countries include the United States, India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, the UAE and numerous European countries, which illustrates the global commitment to scientific advancement based on space.
In the highlighted study, collaborations with UAE healthcare provider Burjeel Holdings were conducted to explore the feasibility of astronaut space missions with insulin-dependent diabetes. The project focuses on glucose monitoring accuracy, data sharing and insulin stability in microgravity. By demonstrating that these technologies are in space, Axiom aims to expand astronaut qualifications and enhance remote care for patients on Earth.
Another survey, in collaboration with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, explores how space flight affects the human brain. Using high-field MRI technology, researchers will examine changes in human body maps, vascular physiology, and blood-brain barriers. These findings can improve astronaut safety and performance during extended missions.
Axiom continues to collaborate with the Institute of Space Health (TRISH) of the Translational Institute to collect comprehensive physiological, cognitive, behavioral and genetic data. This study supports understanding of human adaptability in space and has implications for diseases such as movement disorders and declining cognitive capabilities on Earth.
In a joint effort with the national Jewish health, AX-4 will also use ultrasound imaging to evaluate the effect of microgravity on joint structure. The study aims to develop non-invasive diagnostic techniques, improve exercise programs, and mitigate the risk of injury associated with space travel.
The mission also conducted a technical demonstration with Booz Allen, which uses wearable sensors and data analysis to evaluate astronaut readiness. By monitoring performance across mission phases, the tool can improve workforce capacity in orbit and land sectors.
AX-4 expands life science research through the LEO-3 program developed in the San Diego Aspera Biomedicines and the Sanford Stem Cell Institute (SSCI). This study tested rebecsinib, a FDA-assisted therapeutic organoid of tumors derived from patients with aggressive cancer. By comparing growth patterns under microgravity and Earth conditions, the researchers aim to discover new targets for the treatment of metastatic cancer.
SSCI also leads the Sasha project, which studies stem cell aging in astronauts. The study focused on Apobec and Adar1, assessing how space flight affects inflammation, mutation acquisition, and early cancer markers. These insights can improve understanding of aging and disease in extreme environments.
Research report:Cancer in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)-3
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