Stem cells have survived unexpectedly rough space travel, new research shows. The results, published in npj Microgravity, could help future astronauts treat injuries and illnesses during long space missions.The study by Robert Fredriksson and colleagues sent boundary cap neural crest stem cells to the International Space Station. Despite severe stress from launch, microgravity and radiation, some cells survived. After recovery, they could still develop into nerve cells and glial cells and worked normally in tests.A key finding was that cells placed in 3D-printed support structures fared best across all groups. They survived and kept dividing. Researcher Kozlova said the extended experiment showed just how important the 3D-printed structure was for survival.The work involves an international network of researchers from the US, UK, Italy, Switzerland and other countries. The team is exploring whether cells and tissues could be grown in space for treatment and transplants. The research may also help on Earth, where the group is studying how microgravity affects cells linked to back pain and type 1 diabetes.