Review of Microgravity Biotechnology for Space Applications: The AnuJiva Perspective

Biomanufacturing in microgravity presents transformative opportunities for biotechnology beyond the limitations of terrestrial environments. Gravity-driven convection, sedimentation, and contamination risks often hinder biological productivity on Earth. In contrast, space-based conditions enhance protein crystallization, three-dimensional cell culture, and the production of novel biomaterials. This review synthesizes recent advancements in microgravity-enabled biotechnology, drawing from recent peer-reviewed literature and mission data. We focus on the emerging field of autonomous bioreactor systems for space applications, emphasizing innovations in miniaturization, closed-loop environmental control, and real-time sensing. As a representative case study, we examine the AnuJIVA initiative, a CubeSat-based platform engineered for cultivating microorganisms such as microalgae and cyanobacteria in low Earth orbit. AnuJIVA integrates a microfluidic bioreactor with autonomous decision-making, precision nutrient delivery, and robust contamination resistance, reflecting the broader trend toward scalable and sustainable space biomanufacturing. This review does not report original experimental results but instead consolidates findings from ISS experiments, clinostat-based analog studies, and recent developments in aerospace biotechnology. By analyzing trends in bioreactor design, payload integration, and life support applications, we identify key challenges and future directions, particularly for pharmaceutical development, regenerative medicine, and long-duration space missions. Space biomanufacturing is transitioning from research to applied industry, driven by public-private collaboration and advances in automation. The insights presented here aim to inform ongoing research, system development, and strategic planning for scalable biotechnology platforms in space.