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Seidler RD, Mao XW, Tays GD, Wang T, Zu Eulenburg P. Effects of spaceflight on the brain. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:826-835. [PMID: 38945144 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00224-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The number of long duration human spaceflights has increased substantially over the past 15 years, leading to the discovery of numerous effects on the CNS. Microgravity results in headward fluid shifts, ventricular expansion, an upward shift of the brain within the skull, and remodelling of grey and white matter. The fluid changes are correlated with changes to perivascular space and spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome. Microgravity alters the vestibular processing of head tilt and results in reduced tactile and proprioceptive inputs during spaceflight. Sensory adaptation is reflected in postflight effects, evident as transient sensorimotor impairment. Another major concern is that galactic cosmic radiation, which spacefarers will be exposed to when going beyond the magnetosphere around Earth, might have a negative effect on CNS function. Research with rodents points to the potential disruptive effects of space radiation on blood-brain barrier integrity and brain structures. More work is needed to understand and mitigate these effects on the CNS before humans travel to Mars, as the flight durations will be longer than anyone has previously experienced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael D Seidler
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Xiao Wen Mao
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biomedical Engineering Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Grant D Tays
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Tianyi Wang
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Peter Zu Eulenburg
- Institute for Neuroradiology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
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2
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Jullienne A, Malo M, Shaw K, Zheng Y, Johnston JD, Kontulainen S, Chilibeck PD, Dadachova E, Obenaus A, Sarty GE. Musculoskeletal perturbations of deep space radiation: Assessment using a Gateway MRI. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 42:74-83. [PMID: 39067994 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Human space exploration expansion from Low-Earth Orbit to deep space is accelerating the need to monitor and address the known health concerns related to deep space radiation. The human musculoskeletal system is vulnerable to these risks (alongside microgravity) and its health reflects the well-being of other body systems. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important approach for assessing temporal physiological changes in the musculoskeletal system. We propose that ultra-low-field MRI provides an optimal low Size Weight and Power (SwaP) solution for non-invasively monitoring muscle and bone changes on the planned Gateway lunar space station. Our proposed ultra-low-field Gateway MRI meets low SWaP design specifications mandated by limited room in the lunar space station. This review summarizes the current state of our knowledge on musculoskeletal consequences of spaceflight, especially with respect to radiation, and then elaborates how MRI can be used to monitor the deleterious effects of space travel and the efficacy of putative countermeasures. We argue that an ultra-low-field MRI in cis-lunar space on the Gateway can provide valuable research and medical insights into the effects of deep space radiation exposure on astronauts. Such an MRI would also allow the development of imaging protocols that would facilitate Earth-bound teams to monitor space personnel musculoskeletal changes during future interplanetary spaceflight. It will especially have a role in monitoring countermeasures, such as the use of melanin, in protecting space explorers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Jullienne
- School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, 1001 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA 92617, United States
| | - Mackenzie Malo
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Keely Shaw
- College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, 87 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada
| | - Yuwen Zheng
- College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, 87 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada
| | - James D Johnston
- College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, 57 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Saija Kontulainen
- College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, 87 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada
| | - Philip D Chilibeck
- College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, 87 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B2, Canada
| | - Ekaterina Dadachova
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Rd, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Andre Obenaus
- School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, 1001 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA 92617, United States; School of Medicine, University of California Riverside, United States
| | - Gordon E Sarty
- Space MRI Lab, University of Saskatchewan, QuanTA Centre, 9 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A5, Canada.
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3
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Dontre AJ. Weighing the impact of microgravity on vestibular and visual functions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 40:51-61. [PMID: 38245348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Numerous technological challenges have been overcome to realize human space exploration. As mission durations gradually lengthen, the next obstacle is a set of physical limitations. Extended exposure to microgravity poses multiple threats to various bodily systems. Two of these systems are of particular concern for the success of future space missions. The vestibular system includes the otolith organs, which are stimulated in gravity but unloaded in microgravity. This impairs perception, posture, and coordination, all of which are relevant to mission success. Similarly, vision is impaired in many space travelers due to possible intracranial pressure changes or fluid shifts in the brain. As humankind prepares for extended missions to Mars and beyond, it is imperative to compensate for these perils in prolonged weightlessness. Possible countermeasures are considered such as exercise regimens, improved nutrition, and artificial gravity achieved with a centrifuge or spacecraft rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Dontre
- School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University, 2020 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA; Department of Communications, Behavioral, and Natural Sciences, Franklin University, 201 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215, USA.
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4
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Miao LW, Liu TZ, Sun YH, Cai N, Xuan YY, Wei Z, Cui BB, Jing LL, Ma HP, Xian CJ, Wang JF, Gao YH, Chen KM. Simulated microgravity-induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts can be prevented by protection of primary cilia. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:2692-2709. [PMID: 37796139 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been considered to be closely related to spaceflight-induced bone loss; however, mechanism is elusive and there are no effective countermeasures. Using cultured rat calvarial osteoblasts exposed to microgravity simulated by a random positioning machine, this study addressed the hypotheses that microgravity-induced shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress and that primary cilium protection prevents oxidative stress and osteogenesis loss. Microgravity was found to induce oxidative stress (as represented by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde production, and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes), which was perfectly replicated in osteoblasts growing in NG with abrogated primary cilia (created by transfection of an interfering RNA), suggesting the possibility that shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress was accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction (represented by increased mitochondrial ROS and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential) and intracellular Ca2+ overload, and the latter was found to be caused by increased activity of Ca2+ channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), as also evidenced by TRPV4 agonist GSK1016790A-elicited Ca2+ influx. Supplementation of HC-067047, a specific antagonist of TRPV4, attenuated microgravity-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss. Although TRPV4 was found localized in primary cilia and expressed at low levels in NG, microgravity-induced shortening of primary cilia led to increased TRPV4 levels and Ca2+ influx. When primary cilia were protected by miR-129-3p overexpression or supplementation with a natural flavonoid moslosooflavone, microgravity-induced increased TRPV4 expression, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss were all prevented. Our data revealed a new mechanism that primary cilia function as a controller for TRPV4 expression. Microgravity-induced injury on primary cilia leads to increased expression and overactive channel of TRPV4, causing intracellular Ca2+ overload and oxidative stress, and primary cilium protection could be an effective countermeasure against microgravity-induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Wei Miao
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tian-Zhen Liu
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yue-Hong Sun
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Nan Cai
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ying-Ying Xuan
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhenlong Wei
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Bing-Bing Cui
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lin-Lin Jing
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hui-Ping Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Cory J Xian
- UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ju-Fang Wang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yu-Hai Gao
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ke-Ming Chen
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Gene Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
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5
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Pathare NN, Fayet-Moore F, Fogarty JA, Jacka FN, Strandwitz P, Strangman GE, Donoviel DB. Nourishing the brain on deep space missions: nutritional psychiatry in promoting resilience. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1170395. [PMID: 37663891 PMCID: PMC10469890 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1170395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The grueling psychological demands of a journey into deep space coupled with ever-increasing distances away from home pose a unique problem: how can we best take advantage of the benefits of fresh foods in a place that has none? Here, we consider the biggest challenges associated with our current spaceflight food system, highlight the importance of supporting optimal brain health on missions into deep space, and discuss evidence about food components that impact brain health. We propose a future food system that leverages the gut microbiota that can be individually tailored to best support the brain and mental health of crews on deep space long-duration missions. Working toward this goal, we will also be making investments in sustainable means to nourish the crew that remains here on spaceship Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihar N. Pathare
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Jennifer A. Fogarty
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH), Houston, TX, United States
| | - Felice N. Jacka
- Food and Mood Centre, Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT) Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Gary E. Strangman
- Neural Systems Group, Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School and Harvard-MIT, Charlestown, MA, United States
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Dorit B. Donoviel
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH), Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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Homo sapiens—A Species Not Designed for Space Flight: Health Risks in Low Earth Orbit and Beyond, Including Potential Risks When Traveling beyond the Geomagnetic Field of Earth. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030757. [PMID: 36983912 PMCID: PMC10051707 DOI: 10.3390/life13030757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Homo sapiens and their predecessors evolved in the context of the boundary conditions of Earth, including a 1 g gravity and a geomagnetic field (GMF). These variables, plus others, led to complex organisms that evolved under a defined set of conditions and define how humans will respond to space flight, a circumstance that could not have been anticipated by evolution. Over the past ~60 years, space flight and living in low Earth orbit (LEO) have revealed that astronauts are impacted to varying degrees by such new environments. In addition, it has been noted that astronauts are quite heterogeneous in their response patterns, indicating that such variation is either silent if one remained on Earth, or the heterogeneity unknowingly contributes to disease development during aging or in response to insults. With the planned mission to deep space, humans will now be exposed to further risks from radiation when traveling beyond the influence of the GMF, as well as other potential risks that are associated with the actual loss of the GMF on the astronauts, their microbiomes, and growing food sources. Experimental studies with model systems have revealed that hypogravity conditions can influence a variety biological and physiological systems, and thus the loss of the GMF may have unanticipated consequences to astronauts’ systems, such as those that are electrical in nature (i.e., the cardiovascular system and central neural systems). As astronauts have been shown to be heterogeneous in their responses to LEO, they may require personalized countermeasures, while others may not be good candidates for deep-space missions if effective countermeasures cannot be developed for long-duration missions. This review will discuss several of the physiological and neural systems that are affected and how the emerging variables may influence astronaut health and functioning.
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7
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Neuroplasticity as a Foundation for Decision-Making in Space. NEUROSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/neurosci3030033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This is an exploratory review of two very recent, intersecting segments of space science: neuroplasticity in space, and decision-making in space. The high level of neuroplasticity in humans leads to unfortunate neurological and physical deconditioning while the body adjusts to the new space environment. However, neuroplasticity may also allow recovery and continued functioning of decision-making at a level necessary for mission completion. Cosmic radiation, microgravity, heightened levels of carbon dioxide in spacecraft, and other factors are being explored as root causes of neurological and physical deconditioning in space. The goal of this paper is to explore some of the lines of causation that show how these factors affect the capacity of humans to make decisions in space. Either alone or in groups, it remains essential that humans retain an ability to make decisions that will save lives, protect equipment, complete missions, and return safely to Earth. A final section addresses healthcare, medical intervention, and remediation that could help to “harness” neuroplasticity before, during, and after spaceflight. The dual nature of human neuroplasticity renders it both a cause of problems and also potentially the foundation of remediation. The future of research on both neuroplasticity and human decision-making promises to be full of surprises, both welcome and otherwise. It is an exciting time in research on space medicine.
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Seidler RD, Stern C, Basner M, Stahn AC, Wuyts FL, zu Eulenburg P. Future research directions to identify risks and mitigation strategies for neurostructural, ocular, and behavioral changes induced by human spaceflight: A NASA-ESA expert group consensus report. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:876789. [PMID: 35991346 PMCID: PMC9387435 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.876789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A team of experts on the effects of the spaceflight environment on the brain and eye (SANS: Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome) was convened by NASA and ESA to (1) review spaceflight-associated structural and functional changes of the human brain and eye, and any interactions between the two; and (2) identify critical future research directions in this area to help characterize the risk and identify possible countermeasures and strategies to mitigate the spaceflight-induced brain and eye alterations. The experts identified 14 critical future research directions that would substantially advance our knowledge of the effects of spending prolonged periods of time in the spaceflight environment on SANS, as well as brain structure and function. They used a paired comparison approach to rank the relative importance of these 14 recommendations, which are discussed in detail in the main report and are summarized briefly below.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael D. Seidler
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, Health and Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Claudia Stern
- Department of Clinical Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR) and ISS Operations and Astronauts Group, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency (ESA), Cologne, Germany
- *Correspondence: Claudia Stern,
| | - Mathias Basner
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alexander C. Stahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Floris L. Wuyts
- Department of Physics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Laboratory for Equilibrium Investigations and Aerospace (LEIA), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Peter zu Eulenburg
- German Vertigo and Balance Center, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), Munich, Germany
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Joint Cartilage in Long-Duration Spaceflight. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061356. [PMID: 35740378 PMCID: PMC9220015 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes the current literature available on joint cartilage alterations in long-duration spaceflight. Evidence from spaceflight participants is currently limited to serum biomarker data in only a few astronauts. Findings from analogue model research, such as bed rest studies, as well as data from animal and cell research in real microgravity indicate that unloading and radiation exposure are associated with joint degeneration in terms of cartilage thinning and changes in cartilage composition. It is currently unknown how much the individual cartilage regions in the different joints of the human body will be affected on long-term missions beyond the Low Earth Orbit. Given the fact that, apart from total joint replacement or joint resurfacing, currently no treatment exists for late-stage osteoarthritis, countermeasures might be needed to avoid cartilage damage during long-duration missions. To plan countermeasures, it is important to know if and how joint cartilage and the adjacent structures, such as the subchondral bone, are affected by long-term unloading, reloading, and radiation. The use of countermeasures that put either load and shear, or other stimuli on the joints, shields them from radiation or helps by supporting cartilage physiology, or by removing oxidative stress possibly help to avoid OA in later life following long-duration space missions. There is a high demand for research on the efficacy of such countermeasures to judge their suitability for their implementation in long-duration missions.
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Locatelli L, Castiglioni S, Maier JAM. From Cultured Vascular Cells to Vessels: The Cellular and Molecular Basis of Vascular Dysfunction in Space. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:862059. [PMID: 35480977 PMCID: PMC9036997 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.862059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Life evolved on this planet under the pull of gravity, shielded from radiation by the magnetosphere and shaped by circadian rhythms due to Earth’s rotation on its axis. Once living beings leave such a protective environment, adaptive responses are activated to grant survival. In view of long manned mission out of Earth’s orbit, it is relevant to understand how humans adapt to space and if the responses activated might reveal detrimental in the long run. Here we review present knowledge about the effects on the vessels of various extraterrestrial factors on humans as well as in vivo and in vitro experimental models. It emerges that the vasculature activates complex adaptive responses finalized to supply oxygen and nutrients to all the tissues and to remove metabolic waste and carbon dioxide. Most studies point to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction as mediators of vascular alterations in space. Unraveling the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in these adaptive processes might offer hints to design proper and personalized countermeasures to predict a safe future in space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Locatelli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Castiglioni
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Jeanette A M Maier
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences L. Sacco, Università di Milano, Milano, Italy.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Nanostructured Materials and Interfaces (CIMaINa), Università di Milano, Milan, Italy
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11
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Intensive production of the harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus californicus in a zero-effluent 'green water' bioreactor. Sci Rep 2022; 12:466. [PMID: 35013518 PMCID: PMC8748651 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04516-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaculture is looking for substitutes for fishmeal and fish oil to maintain its continued growth. Zooplankton is the most nutritious option, but its controlled mass production has not yet been achieved. In this context, we have developed a monoalgal 'green water' closed-loop bioreactor with the microalgae Tetraselmis chui that continuously produced the harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus californicus. During 145 days of operation, the 2.2 m3 bioreactor produced 3.9 kg (wet weight) of Tigriopus with (dry weight) 0.79 ± 0.29% eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 0.82 ± 0.26% docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), 1.89 ± 0,60% 3S,3'S-astaxanthin and an essential amino acid index (EAAI) of 97% for juvenile Atlantic salmon. The reactor kept the pH stable over the operation time (pH 8.81 ± 0.40 in the algae phase and pH 8.22 ± 2.96 in the zooplankton phase), while constantly removed nitrate (322.6 mg L-1) and phosphate (20.4 mg L-1) from the water. As a result of the stable pH and nutrient removal, the bioreactor achieved zero effluent discharges. The upscaling of monoalgal, closed-loop 'green water' bioreactors could help standardize zooplankton mass production to supply the aquafeeds industry.
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