Finasteride Affects on Planaria Regeneration
Abstract
Aerospace physiology observes Cell reproduction within humans and how different substances and different environments can affect cell reproduction among all species. The species that is being observed is known as planaria from the class known as turbellaria, the planarian is an excellent model system. Planaria has been used within the microbiology community to observe the regenerative properties they possess and how different environmental factors affect the rate of regeneration. In previous research, we have observed that microgravity and ultraviolet light significantly impair planaria regeneration. In the present study we aim to study the effect of Finasteride in cell regeneration. Finasteride is a substance used within the medical community to treat male pattern baldness; however, there are detrimental factors that can be present, including cell toxicity. We have tested two different trials with two different concentrations of finasteride, while still observing planaria under regular environmental conditions. This was done to compare life expectancy and the rate of regeneration. Finasteride caused cell death at high doses and decreased regeneration rates at low medical doses. The combined strategies for cell regeneration and study of drug toxicity have now been implemented in a classroom setting to demonstrate and practice the scientific method using a fascinating model system.
Finasteride Affects on Planaria Regeneration
Aerospace physiology observes Cell reproduction within humans and how different substances and different environments can affect cell reproduction among all species. The species that is being observed is known as planaria from the class known as turbellaria, the planarian is an excellent model system. Planaria has been used within the microbiology community to observe the regenerative properties they possess and how different environmental factors affect the rate of regeneration. In previous research, we have observed that microgravity and ultraviolet light significantly impair planaria regeneration. In the present study we aim to study the effect of Finasteride in cell regeneration. Finasteride is a substance used within the medical community to treat male pattern baldness; however, there are detrimental factors that can be present, including cell toxicity. We have tested two different trials with two different concentrations of finasteride, while still observing planaria under regular environmental conditions. This was done to compare life expectancy and the rate of regeneration. Finasteride caused cell death at high doses and decreased regeneration rates at low medical doses. The combined strategies for cell regeneration and study of drug toxicity have now been implemented in a classroom setting to demonstrate and practice the scientific method using a fascinating model system.