Ghent university hospital joins first consortium on human reproduction in space
Ghent's university hospital is taking part in the first consortium dedicated to human reproduction in space.
The conference will be held from 26-28 September in Amsterdam, where experts will address the question: Can humans reproduce safely beyond Earth? Specialists in fertility research, space biology and technology, bioethics, geopolitics and law will convene during the meeting.
Kelly Tilleman, a researcher at UZ Gent, will contribute with insights on the development and application of advanced reproductive technologies as part of the reproductive medicine research group.
"Permanent habitation beyond Earth is only possible if we can safely conceive and raise children in space"
As space travel continues to progress, the conference organiser, SpaceBorn United, highlights the importance of looking further ahead.
"Without the possibility of reproduction, human presence in space will always be temporary," says founder and CEO Dr Egbert Edelbroek. "Permanent habitation beyond Earth is only possible if we can safely conceive and raise children in space."
Improved treatment
Conception, pregnancy and childbirth beyond Earth present formidable challenges. Lower gravity and weightlessness can disrupt key bodily processes, while radiation and disturbances to the circadian rhythm add further risks.
"We know almost nothing about the impact on reproductive organs, embryonic development or childbirth," SpaceBorn United says.
The research could also yield benefits closer to home. Studying reproduction under extreme conditions may lead to improved treatments for fertility problems and higher success rates for IVF procedures. Space research has previously driven advances in agriculture, medicine, and technology.
#FlandersNewsService | Assisted Reproductive Technology In Space minilab prototype in orbit © PHOTO ASGARDIA AND SPACEBORN UNITED
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