In Situ Bioanalysis payload is the development of a simple portable analytical device that can be easily employed by ISS crew members in order to analyze their saliva and check about their general health status. This portable bio analyzer will enable direct analysis of bio samples within the ISS, rather than collecting and storing samples that will be analyzed upon their return to Earth. The project focuses on the analysis of  salivary cortisol, as a stress biomarker.

The P/L contains:

  • the equipment necessary to perform the complete analysis of cortisol in oral fluid samples, including sample collection, sample analysis, data acquisition, and data storage (CL Reader).
  • single-use disposable OFSE (Oral Fluid Sampling Equipment) suitable for collecting an oral fluid sample and transferring a defined volume of it to the LFIA (Later Flow ImmunoAssay) Cartridge for cortisol analysis
  • ISS SSC laptop

PI: Prof. Aldo Roda, University of Bologna

PD: University of Bologna; ALTEC