Expedited Cellular Uptake of Hydrophobic Antioxidants for Oxidative Stress Mitigation via F127 Micelle Encapsulation

Salt Lake Community College Westpointe Campus, Salt Lake City, UT

Various hydrophobic antioxidants remain unexplored for the treatment of space radiation and oxidative stress due to their inability to enter the cell without a drug delivery vehicle. Here, we explore the Pluronic F127 drug delivery vehicle, known as a micelle, and examine cellular responses following antioxidant delivery and oxidative stress mitigation. We also investigate methods for producing antioxidant-loaded micelles and their potential suitability for astronauts, including the best ways they might be administered during space flight missions. This research paves the way for new antioxidants to be used to protect astronauts from diseases caused by space conditions such as radiation and microgravity.