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Space Station to Grow Cancer Drugs
23 May
Summary
- Drug crystallization technology launched to ISS via SpaceX.
- Microgravity enables purer, more stable drug crystals.
- Self-injectable cancer drugs could save healthcare systems millions.
BioOrbit, a London-based startup, has sent its Box-E unit to the International Space Station (ISS) on a SpaceX flight to cultivate ultra-pure protein crystals. This technology, developed over six weeks in orbit using microgravity, aims to create novel cancer drug formulations. These advanced crystals will enable the development of self-injectable medications that patients can store and administer at home or work, significantly reducing the need for lengthy hospital infusions.
Dr. Katie King, BioOrbit's CEO, highlighted the superiority of space-based crystallization for large, flexible molecules like antibodies, which are crucial for protein drugs. Gravity's interference on Earth limits the achievable purity and stability of these crystals. The resulting concentrated formulations, thanks to this crystal technology, will possess a viscosity low enough for injection pens. This advancement follows successful experiments, including those by Merck for its cancer medicine Keytruda, which now has an approved injection route.
BioOrbit, founded in 2023, secured £9.8 million in funding to advance its orbital manufacturing capabilities. The company believes that by stacking multiple Box-E units, it can achieve mass production of pharmaceuticals in space. While clinical trials and regulatory approvals mean these new cancer drug formulations are at least five years away from market, the technology also holds promise for other intravenously administered treatments. BioOrbit plans to collaborate with pharmaceutical companies for further development.
