

The Other Crew: Microbes on the ISS
Are we really alone in space? One major stressor astronauts encounter during their missions is isolation. But are they really alone in space? The answer is a resounding NO when you consider all the tiny microbes that give them company (not to mention aliens and conspiracy theories). Some of these microbes live inside our own bodies, and some hitchhike along on missions to outer space, adapting to conditions there. This blog explores humanity's longest-known companions, micr
May 86 min read


The Immune Cost of Dirty Air
"About 99% of people breathe air that does not comply with the WHO Air Quality Guidelines." - WHO, 2021 Air pollution is undoubtedly increasing around the world. Every time I see a high AQI reading on my weather app, I wonder just how bad it's going to be for us. Key Takeaway High AQI levels are not just a warning for our lungs. It may also be a warning for our immune system. Fine particles like PM2.5 can reach deep into the lungs, disrupt immune cells, and leave the body
May 15 min read


Astroimmunology Series | Part 1: How does outer space affect our immune system?
I first heard about this when my PhD colleague presented it as part of her mini-proposal- a lab meeting segment where we could pitch and defend cool new experiments to try. I was hooked immediately. Immune cells form a protective shield against deadly infections. So when astronauts travel to space, their immune system needs to be ready to tackle infections (or space bugs). Turns out, they have more to deal with than just bugs. Any cell taken farther from Earth would exp
Apr 172 min read


Apr 70 min read


Apr 70 min read


Apr 70 min read









