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Campisi M, Cannella L, Pavanello S. Cosmic chronometers: Is spaceflight a catalyst for biological ageing? Ageing Res Rev 2024; 95:102227. [PMID: 38346506 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102227] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Astronauts returning from space missions often exhibit health issues mirroring age-related conditions, suggesting spaceflight as a potential driver of biological ageing and age-related diseases. To unravel the underlying mechanisms of these conditions, this comprehensive review explores the impact of the space "exposome" on the twelve hallmarks of ageing. Through a meticulous analysis encompassing both space environments and terrestrial analogs, we aim to decipher how different conditions influence ageing hallmarks. Utilizing PubMed, we identified 189 studies and 60 meet screening criteria. Research on biological ageing in space has focused on genomic instability, chronic inflammation, and deregulated nutrient sensing. Spaceflight consistently induces genomic instability, linked to prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation, triggers pro-inflammatory and immune alterations, resembling conditions in isolated simulations. Nutrient sensing pathways reveal increased systemic insulin-like growth-factor-1. Microbiome studies indicate imbalances favoring opportunistic species during spaceflight. Telomere dynamics present intriguing patterns, with lengthening during missions and rapid shortening upon return. Despite a pro-ageing trend, some protective mechanisms emerge. Countermeasures, encompassing dietary adjustments, prebiotics, postbiotics, symbiotics, tailored exercises, meditation, and anti-inflammatory supplements, exhibit potential. Spaceflight's impact on ageing is intricate, with diverse findings challenging established beliefs. Multidisciplinary studies provide guidance for future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Campisi
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Luana Cannella
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sofia Pavanello
- Occupational Medicine, Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
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2
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Tomsia M, Cieśla J, Śmieszek J, Florek S, Macionga A, Michalczyk K, Stygar D. Long-term space missions' effects on the human organism: what we do know and what requires further research. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1284644. [PMID: 38415007 PMCID: PMC10896920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1284644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Space has always fascinated people. Many years have passed since the first spaceflight, and in addition to the enormous technological progress, the level of understanding of human physiology in space is also increasing. The presented paper aims to summarize the recent research findings on the influence of the space environment (microgravity, pressure differences, cosmic radiation, etc.) on the human body systems during short-term and long-term space missions. The review also presents the biggest challenges and problems that must be solved in order to extend safely the time of human stay in space. In the era of increasing engineering capabilities, plans to colonize other planets, and the growing interest in commercial space flights, the most topical issues of modern medicine seems to be understanding the effects of long-term stay in space, and finding solutions to minimize the harmful effects of the space environment on the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Cieśla
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Śmieszek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Florek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Macionga
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Michalczyk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominika Stygar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- SLU University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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3
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Cialdai F, Brown AM, Baumann CW, Angeloni D, Baatout S, Benchoua A, Bereiter-Hahn J, Bottai D, Buchheim JI, Calvaruso M, Carnero-Diaz E, Castiglioni S, Cavalieri D, Ceccarelli G, Choukér A, Ciofani G, Coppola G, Cusella G, Degl'Innocenti A, Desaphy JF, Frippiat JP, Gelinsky M, Genchi G, Grano M, Grimm D, Guignandon A, Hahn C, Hatton J, Herranz R, Hellweg CE, Iorio CS, Karapantsios T, van Loon J, Lulli M, Maier J, Malda J, Mamaca E, Morbidelli L, van Ombergen A, Osterman A, Ovsianikov A, Pampaloni F, Pavezlorie E, Pereda-Campos V, Przybyla C, Puhl C, Rettberg P, Risaliti C, Rizzo AM, Robson-Brown K, Rossi L, Russo G, Salvetti A, Santucci D, Sperl M, Strollo F, Tabury K, Tavella S, Thielemann C, Willaert R, Szewczyk NJ, Monici M. How do gravity alterations affect animal and human systems at a cellular/tissue level? NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:84. [PMID: 37865644 PMCID: PMC10590411 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00330-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The present white paper concerns the indications and recommendations of the SciSpacE Science Community to make progress in filling the gaps of knowledge that prevent us from answering the question: "How Do Gravity Alterations Affect Animal and Human Systems at a Cellular/Tissue Level?" This is one of the five major scientific issues of the ESA roadmap "Biology in Space and Analogue Environments". Despite the many studies conducted so far on spaceflight adaptation mechanisms and related pathophysiological alterations observed in astronauts, we are not yet able to elaborate a synthetic integrated model of the many changes occurring at different system and functional levels. Consequently, it is difficult to develop credible models for predicting long-term consequences of human adaptation to the space environment, as well as to implement medical support plans for long-term missions and a strategy for preventing the possible health risks due to prolonged exposure to spaceflight beyond the low Earth orbit (LEO). The research activities suggested by the scientific community have the aim to overcome these problems by striving to connect biological and physiological aspects in a more holistic view of space adaptation effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cialdai
- ASAcampus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div., DSBSC-University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Austin M Brown
- Honors Tutorial College, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Cory W Baumann
- Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Debora Angeloni
- Inst. of Biorobotics, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | | | - Juergen Bereiter-Hahn
- Inst. for Cell and Neurobiol, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Daniele Bottai
- Dept. Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Judith-Irina Buchheim
- Laboratory of "Translational Research, Stress & Immunity", Department of Anesthesiology, LMU University Hospital Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marco Calvaruso
- Inst. Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council (IBFM-CNR), Cefalù, Italy
| | - Eugénie Carnero-Diaz
- Inst. Systematic, Evolution, Biodiversity, Sorbonne University, NMNH, CNRS, EPHE, UA, Paris, France
| | - Sara Castiglioni
- Dept. of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Ceccarelli
- Dept of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alexander Choukér
- Laboratory of "Translational Research, Stress & Immunity", Department of Anesthesiology, LMU University Hospital Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gianni Ciofani
- Smart Bio-Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56025, Pontedera (PI), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Institute of Applied Science and Intelligent Sistems - CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Cusella
- Dept of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Degl'Innocenti
- Dept Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Smart Bio-Interfaces, IIT, Pontedera (PI), Italy
| | - Jean-Francois Desaphy
- Dept. Precision and Regenerative Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Jean-Pol Frippiat
- Stress, Immunity, Pathogens Laboratory, SIMPA, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Michael Gelinsky
- Centre for Translational Bone, Joint & Soft Tissue Research, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Giada Genchi
- Smart Bio-Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56025, Pontedera (PI), Italy
| | - Maria Grano
- Dept. Precision and Regenerative Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Dept. Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Dept of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Alain Guignandon
- SAINBIOSE, INSERM U1059, Université Jean Monnet, F-42000, Saint-Etienne, France
| | | | | | - Raúl Herranz
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Christine E Hellweg
- Radiation Biology Dept., Inst. of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | | | | | - Jack van Loon
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, ACTA/VU, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matteo Lulli
- Dept. Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Jeanette Maier
- Dept. of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jos Malda
- Dept. Orthopaedics, Univ. Med. Center Utrecht & Dept. Clinical Sciences, Utrecht Univ, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Emina Mamaca
- European and International Affairs Dept, Ifremer centre Bretagne, Plouzané, France
| | | | | | - Andreas Osterman
- Max von Pettenkofer Institute, Virology, LMU Munich & DZIF, Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Aleksandr Ovsianikov
- 3D Printing and Biofabrication, Inst. Materials Science and Technology, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Francesco Pampaloni
- Buchmann Inst. for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Pavezlorie
- Ludwig Boltzmann Inst. for Traumatology, Res. Center in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronica Pereda-Campos
- GSBMS/URU EVOLSAN - Medecine Evolutive, Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Cyrille Przybyla
- MARBEC, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, IRD, Palavas les Flots, France
| | - Christopher Puhl
- Space Applications NV/SA for European Space Agency, Houston, USA
| | - Petra Rettberg
- DLR, Inst of Aerospace Medicine, Research Group Astrobiology, Köln, Germany
| | - Chiara Risaliti
- ASAcampus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div., DSBSC-University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Rizzo
- Dept. of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Kate Robson-Brown
- Dept of Engineering Mathematics, and Dept of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Leonardo Rossi
- Dept. Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giorgio Russo
- Inst. Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council (IBFM-CNR), Cefalù, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Santucci
- Center for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, Ist. Superiore Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Felice Strollo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Kevin Tabury
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Sara Tavella
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino and University of Genoa, DIMES, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Ronnie Willaert
- Research Group NAMI and NANO, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Monica Monici
- ASAcampus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div., DSBSC-University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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4
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Rastoldo G, Tighilet B. Thyroid Axis and Vestibular Physiopathology: From Animal Model to Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9826. [PMID: 37372973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A recent work of our group has shown the significant effects of thyroxine treatment on the restoration of postural balance function in a rodent model of acute peripheral vestibulopathy. Based on these findings, we attempt to shed light in this review on the interaction between the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and the vestibular system in normal and pathological situations. Pubmed database and relevant websites were searched from inception through to 4 February 2023. All studies relevant to each subsection of this review have been included. After describing the role of thyroid hormones in the development of the inner ear, we investigated the possible link between the thyroid axis and the vestibular system in normal and pathological conditions. The mechanisms and cellular sites of action of thyroid hormones on animal models of vestibulopathy are postulated and therapeutic options are proposed. In view of their pleiotropic action, thyroid hormones represent a target of choice to promote vestibular compensation at different levels. However, very few studies have investigated the relationship between thyroid hormones and the vestibular system. It seems then important to more extensively investigate the link between the endocrine system and the vestibule in order to better understand the vestibular physiopathology and to find new therapeutic leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Rastoldo
- Aix Marseille Université-CNRS, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives, LNC UMR 7291, 13331 Marseille, France
| | - Brahim Tighilet
- Aix Marseille Université-CNRS, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives, LNC UMR 7291, 13331 Marseille, France
- GDR Vertige CNRS Unité GDR2074, 13331 Marseille, France
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5
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Theotokis P, Manthou ME, Deftereou TE, Miliaras D, Meditskou S. Addressing Spaceflight Biology through the Lens of a Histologist-Embryologist. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020588. [PMID: 36836946 PMCID: PMC9965490 DOI: 10.3390/life13020588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryogenesis and fetal development are highly delicate and error-prone processes in their core physiology, let alone if stress-associated factors and conditions are involved. Space radiation and altered gravity are factors that could radically affect fertility and pregnancy and compromise a physiological organogenesis. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of information examining the effects of cosmic exposures on reproductive and proliferating outcomes with regard to mammalian embryonic development. However, explicit attention has been given to investigations exploring discrete structures and neural networks such as the vestibular system, an entity that is viewed as the sixth sense and organically controls gravity beginning with the prenatal period. The role of the gut microbiome, a newly acknowledged field of research in the space community, is also being challenged to be added in forthcoming experimental protocols. This review discusses the data that have surfaced from simulations or actual space expeditions and addresses developmental adaptations at the histological level induced by an extraterrestrial milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paschalis Theotokis
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Eleni Manthou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Dimosthenis Miliaras
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Soultana Meditskou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
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6
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Are Skeletal Muscle Changes during Prolonged Space Flights Similar to Those Experienced by Frail and Sarcopenic Older Adults? LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12122139. [PMID: 36556504 PMCID: PMC9781047 DOI: 10.3390/life12122139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Microgravity exposure causes several physiological and psychosocial alterations that challenge astronauts' health during space flight. Notably, many of these changes are mostly related to physical inactivity influencing different functional systems and organ biology, in particular the musculoskeletal system, dramatically resulting in aging-like phenotypes, such as those occurring in older persons on Earth. In this sense, sarcopenia, a syndrome characterized by the loss in muscle mass and strength due to skeletal muscle unloading, is undoubtedly one of the most critical aging-like adverse effects of microgravity and a prevalent problem in the geriatric population, still awaiting effective countermeasures. Therefore, there is an urgent demand to identify clinically relevant biological markers and to underline molecular mechanisms behind these effects that are still poorly understood. From this perspective, a lesson from Geroscience may help tailor interventions to counteract the adverse effects of microgravity. For instance, decades of studies in the field have demonstrated that in the older people, the clinical picture of sarcopenia remarkably overlaps (from a clinical and biological point of view) with that of frailty, primarily when referred to the physical function domain. Based on this premise, here we provide a deeper understanding of the biological mechanisms of sarcopenia and frailty, which in aging are often considered together, and how these converge with those observed in astronauts after space flight.
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7
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Prolonged Exposure to Simulated Microgravity Changes Release of Small Extracellular Vesicle in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416095. [PMID: 36555738 PMCID: PMC9781806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer incidence worldwide and among the five leading causes of cancer mortality. Despite major improvements in early detection and new treatment approaches, the need for better outcomes and quality of life for patients is still high. Extracellular vesicles play an important role in tumor biology, as they are able to transfer information between cells of different origins and locations. Their potential value as biomarkers or for targeted tumor therapy is apparent. In this study, we analyzed the supernatants of MCF-7 breast cancer cells, which were harvested following 5 or 10 days of simulated microgravity on a Random Positioning Machine (RPM). The primary results showed a substantial increase in released vesicles following incubation under simulated microgravity at both time points. The distribution of subpopulations regarding their surface protein expression is also altered; the minimal changes between the time points hint at an early adaption. This is the first step in gaining further insight into the mechanisms of tumor progression, metastasis, the education of the tumor microenvironments, and preparation of the metastatic niche. Additionally, this may lighten up the processes of the rapid cellular adaptions in the organisms of space travelers during spaceflights.
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8
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Strollo F, Gentile S, Pipicelli AMV, Mambro A, Monici M, Magni P. Space Flight-Promoted Insulin Resistance as a Possible Disruptor of Wound Healing. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:868999. [PMID: 35646861 PMCID: PMC9136162 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.868999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
During space flight, especially when prolonged, exposure to microgravity results in a number of pathophysiological changes such as bone loss, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular and metabolic changes and impaired wound healing, among others. Interestingly, chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance appear to be pivotal events linking many of them. Interestingly, real and experimental microgravity is also associated to altered wound repair, a process that is becoming increasingly important in view of prolonged space flights. The association of insulin resistance and wound healing impairment may be hypothesized from some dysmetabolic conditions, like the metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus and abdominal/visceral obesity, where derangement of glucose and lipid metabolism, greater low-grade inflammation, altered adipokine secretion and adipocyte dysfunction converge to produce systemic effects that also negatively involve wound healing. Indeed, wound healing impairment after traumatic events and surgery in space remains a relevant concern for space agencies. Further studies are required to clarify the molecular connection between insulin resistance and wound healing during space flight, addressing the ability of physical, endocrine/metabolic, and pharmacological countermeasures, as well as nutritional strategies to prevent long-term detrimental effects on tissue repair linked to insulin resistance. Based on these considerations, this paper discusses the pathophysiological links between microgravity-associated insulin resistance and impaired wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Strollo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: F. Strollo,
| | - S. Gentile
- Department of Internal Medicine, Campania University “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy and Nefrocenter Research Network, Naples, Italy
| | - A. M. V. Pipicelli
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, “A. Gemelli” Sacred Heart Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - A. Mambro
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Pertini General Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Monici
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, ASA Campus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - P. Magni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Multimedica Hospital, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
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9
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Changes in Exosomal miRNA Composition in Thyroid Cancer Cells after Prolonged Exposure to Real Microgravity in Space. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312841. [PMID: 34884646 PMCID: PMC8657878 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As much as space travel and exploration have been a goal since humankind looked up to the stars, the challenges coming with it are manifold and difficult to overcome. Therefore, researching the changes the human organism undergoes following exposure to weightlessness, on a cellular or a physiological level, is imperative to reach the goal of exploring space and new planets. Building on the results of our CellBox-1 experiment, where thyroid cancer cells were flown to the International Space Station, we are now taking advantage of the newest technological opportunities to gain more insight into the changes in cell–cell communication of these cells. Analyzing the exosomal microRNA composition after several days of microgravity might elucidate some of the proteomic changes we have reported earlier. An array scan of a total of 754 miRNA targets revealed more than 100 differentially expressed miRNAs in our samples, many of which have been implicated in thyroid disease in other studies.
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10
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Strollo F, Vernikos J. Aging-like metabolic and adrenal changes in microgravity: State of the art in preparation for Mars. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:236-242. [PMID: 33757818 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine and metabolic changes that typically accompany aging on Earth have been consistently observed in space. Support for the role of gravity in aging has mostly come from ground simulation studies in head down bed rest. However, uncertainties remain and have to be resolved in planning for the ambitious enterprise of sending humans to Mars and back. Stress-related corticosteroid changes and metabolic adaptation to microgravity and their relationship with aging are the object of the present review mostly, albeit of course non exclusively, coming from the personal experience of the authors. The picture coming out of it is that of some, not easily proven, stress-induced cortisol increase accompanied by insulin resistance, both of which represent typical aging-like phenomena mediated by chronic low-grade inflammation. This suggests the need for humans to consider the long journey to safely land, live and work on Mars by taking advantage of integrative medicine solutions including synthetic torpor and/or continuous self-monitoring of eating, sleeping, moving to enable remotely supervised self-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felice Strollo
- Elle-Di and San Raffaele Research Institute, Rome, Italy.
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11
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Wise PM, Neviani P, Riwaldt S, Corydon TJ, Wehland M, Braun M, Krüger M, Infanger M, Grimm D. Changes in Exosome Release in Thyroid Cancer Cells after Prolonged Exposure to Real Microgravity in Space. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22042132. [PMID: 33669943 PMCID: PMC7924847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Space travel has always been the man’s ultimate destination. With the ability of spaceflight though, came the realization that exposure to microgravity has lasting effects on the human body. To counteract these, many studies were and are undertaken, on multiple levels. Changes in cell growth, gene, and protein expression have been described in different models on Earth and in space. Extracellular vesicles, and in particular exosomes, are important cell-cell communicators, being secreted from almost all the cells and therefore, are a perfect target to further investigate the underlying reasons of the organism’s adaptations to microgravity. Here, we studied supernatants harvested from the CellBox-1 experiment, which featured human thyroid cancer cells flown to the International Space Station during the SpaceX CRS-3 cargo mission. The initial results show differences in the number of secreted exosomes, as well as in the distribution of subpopulations in regards to their surface protein expression. Notably, alteration of their population regarding the tetraspanin surface expression was observed. This is a promising step into a new area of microgravity research and will potentially lead to the discovery of new biomarkers and pathways of cellular cross-talk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra M. Wise
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, 4650 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA; (P.M.W.); (P.N.)
| | - Paolo Neviani
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, 4650 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA; (P.M.W.); (P.N.)
| | - Stefan Riwaldt
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.R.); (M.W.); (M.K.); (M.I.)
| | - Thomas Juhl Corydon
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Blvd. 99, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Markus Wehland
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.R.); (M.W.); (M.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group "Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen" (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Markus Braun
- Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR), Raumfahrtmanagement Bonn-Oberkassel, 53227 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.R.); (M.W.); (M.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group "Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen" (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.R.); (M.W.); (M.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group "Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen" (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (S.R.); (M.W.); (M.K.); (M.I.)
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark;
- Research Group "Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen" (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-21379702
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Hand AR, Dagdeviren D, Larson NA, Haxhi C, Mednieks MI. Effects of spaceflight on the mouse submandibular gland. Arch Oral Biol 2019; 110:104621. [PMID: 31805482 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2019.104621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to determine if the morphology and biochemistry of the mouse submandibular gland is affected by microgravity and the spaceflight environment. DESIGN Tissues from female mice flown on the US space shuttle missions Space Transportation System (STS)-131 and STS-135 for 15 and 13 d, respectively, and from male mice flown on the 30 d Russian Bion-M1 biosatellite, were examined using transmission electron microscopy and light and electron microscopic immunohistochemistry. RESULTS In contrast to the parotid gland, morphologic changes were not apparent in the submandibular gland. No significant changes in protein expression, as assessed by quantitative immunogold labeling, occurred in female mice flown for 13-15 d. In male mice, however, increased labeling for salivary androgen binding protein alpha (in acinar cell secretory granules), and epidermal growth factor and nerve growth factor (in granular convoluted duct cell granules) was seen after 30 d in space. CONCLUSION These results indicate that spaceflight alters secretory protein expression in the submandibular gland and suggest that the sex of the animals and the length of the flight may affect the response. These findings also show that individual salivary glands respond differently to spaceflight. Saliva contains proteins secreted from salivary glands and is easily collected, therefore is a useful biofluid for general medical analyses and in particular for monitoring the physiology and health of astronauts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur R Hand
- Department of Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Didem Dagdeviren
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Natasha A Larson
- Department of Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Christopher Haxhi
- Department of Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Maija I Mednieks
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
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13
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Amselem S. Remote Controlled Autonomous Microgravity Lab Platforms for Drug Research in Space. Pharm Res 2019; 36:183. [PMID: 31741058 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-019-2703-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Research conducted in microgravity conditions has the potential to yield new therapeutics, as advances can be achieved in the absence of phenomena such as sedimentation, hydrostatic pressure and thermally-induced convection. The outcomes of such studies can significantly contribute to many scientific and technological fields, including drug discovery. This article reviews the existing traditional microgravity platforms as well as emerging ideas for enabling microgravity research focusing on SpacePharma's innovative autonomous remote-controlled microgravity labs that can be launched to space aboard nanosatellites to perform drug research in orbit. The scientific literature is reviewed and examples of life science fields that have benefited from studies in microgravity conditions are given. These include the use of microgravity environment for chemical applications (protein crystallization, drug polymorphism, self-assembly of biomolecules), pharmaceutical studies (microencapsulation, drug delivery systems, behavior and stability of colloidal formulations, antibiotic drug resistance), and biological research, including accelerated models for aging, investigation of bacterial virulence , tissue engineering using organ-on-chips in space, enhanced stem cells proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimon Amselem
- SpacePharma R&D Israel LTD, 1st Aba Even Av, 4672519, Herzliya Pituach, Israel. .,SpacePharma SA, Rue l'Armeratte 3, 2950, Courgenay, Switzerland.
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14
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Strollo F, Gentile S, Strollo G, Mambro A, Vernikos J. Recent Progress in Space Physiology and Aging. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1551. [PMID: 30483144 PMCID: PMC6240610 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astronauts coming back from long-term space missions present with different health problems potentially affecting mission performance, involving all functional systems and organs and closely resembling those found in the elderly. This review points out the most recent advances in the literature in areas of expertise in which specific research groups were particularly creative, and as they relate to aging and to possible benefits on Earth for disabled people. The update of new findings and approaches in space research refers especially to neuro-immuno-endocrine-metabolic interactions, optic nerve edema, motion sickness and muscle-tendon-bone interplay and aims at providing the curious - and even possibly naïve young researchers – with a source of inspiration and of creative ideas for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandro Gentile
- Campania University "Luigi Vanvitelli" and Nefrocenter Research Network, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Mambro
- Anesthesiology and Resuscitation Unit, "Misercordia" Hospital, Grosseto, Italy
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15
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Bauer J, Grimm D, Gombocz E. Semantic analysis of thyroid cancer cell proteins obtained from rare research opportunities. J Biomed Inform 2017; 76:138-153. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbi.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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16
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Faour O, Gilloteaux J. Calcitonin: Survey of new anatomy data to pathology and therapeutic aspects. TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH IN ANATOMY 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tria.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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17
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Chatzitomaris A, Hoermann R, Midgley JE, Hering S, Urban A, Dietrich B, Abood A, Klein HH, Dietrich JW. Thyroid Allostasis-Adaptive Responses of Thyrotropic Feedback Control to Conditions of Strain, Stress, and Developmental Programming. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:163. [PMID: 28775711 PMCID: PMC5517413 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid feedback control is a dynamic, adaptive system. In situations of illness and deprivation of energy representing type 1 allostasis, the stress response operates to alter both its set point and peripheral transfer parameters. In contrast, type 2 allostatic load, typically effective in psychosocial stress, pregnancy, metabolic syndrome, and adaptation to cold, produces a nearly opposite phenotype of predictive plasticity. The non-thyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) or thyroid allostasis in critical illness, tumors, uremia, and starvation (TACITUS), commonly observed in hospitalized patients, displays a historically well-studied pattern of allostatic thyroid response. This is characterized by decreased total and free thyroid hormone concentrations and varying levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) ranging from decreased (in severe cases) to normal or even elevated (mainly in the recovery phase) TSH concentrations. An acute versus chronic stage (wasting syndrome) of TACITUS can be discerned. The two types differ in molecular mechanisms and prognosis. The acute adaptation of thyroid hormone metabolism to critical illness may prove beneficial to the organism, whereas the far more complex molecular alterations associated with chronic illness frequently lead to allostatic overload. The latter is associated with poor outcome, independently of the underlying disease. Adaptive responses of thyroid homeostasis extend to alterations in thyroid hormone concentrations during fetal life, periods of weight gain or loss, thermoregulation, physical exercise, and psychiatric diseases. The various forms of thyroid allostasis pose serious problems in differential diagnosis of thyroid disease. This review article provides an overview of physiological mechanisms as well as major diagnostic and therapeutic implications of thyroid allostasis under a variety of developmental and straining conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolos Chatzitomaris
- Medical Department I, Endocrinology and Diabetology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- *Correspondence: Apostolos Chatzitomaris,
| | - Rudolf Hoermann
- Private Consultancy, Research and Development, Yandina, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Steffen Hering
- Department for Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Medical Intensive Care Medicine, Krankenhaus Bietigheim-Vaihingen, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany
| | - Aline Urban
- Department for Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Palliative Medicine, Eastern Allgäu-Kaufbeuren Hospitals, Kaufbeuren, Germany
| | | | - Assjana Abood
- Medical Department I, Endocrinology and Diabetology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Harald H. Klein
- Medical Department I, Endocrinology and Diabetology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Ruhr University of Bochum and Witten/Herdecke University, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johannes W. Dietrich
- Medical Department I, Endocrinology and Diabetology, Bergmannsheil University Hospitals, Ruhr University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Ruhr Center for Rare Diseases (CeSER), Ruhr University of Bochum and Witten/Herdecke University, Bochum, Germany
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Hackney KJ, Scott JM, Hanson AM, English KL, Downs ME, Ploutz-Snyder LL. The Astronaut-Athlete. J Strength Cond Res 2015; 29:3531-45. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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19
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Kopp S, Warnke E, Wehland M, Aleshcheva G, Magnusson NE, Hemmersbach R, Corydon TJ, Bauer J, Infanger M, Grimm D. Mechanisms of three-dimensional growth of thyroid cells during long-term simulated microgravity. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16691. [PMID: 26576504 PMCID: PMC4649336 DOI: 10.1038/srep16691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional multicellular spheroids (MCS) of human cells are important in cancer research. We investigated possible mechanisms of MCS formation of thyroid cells. Both, normal Nthy-ori 3–1 thyroid cells and the poorly differentiated follicular thyroid cancer cells FTC-133 formed MCS within 7 and 14 days of culturing on a Random Positioning Machine (RPM), while a part of the cells continued to grow adherently in each culture. The FTC-133 cancer cells formed larger and numerous MCS than the normal cells. In order to explain the different behaviour, we analyzed the gene expression of IL6, IL7, IL8, IL17, OPN, NGAL, VEGFA and enzymes associated cytoskeletal or membrane proteins (ACTB, TUBB, PFN1, CPNE1, TGM2, CD44, FLT1, FLK1, PKB, PKC, ERK1/2, Casp9, Col1A1) as well as the amount of secreted proteins (IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-17, OPN, NGAL, VEGFA). Several of these components changed during RPM-exposure in each cell line. Striking differences between normal and malignant cells were observed in regards to the expression of genes of NGAL, VEGFA, OPN, IL6 and IL17 and to the secretion of VEGFA, IL-17, and IL-6. These results suggest several gravi-sensitive growth or angiogenesis factors being involved in 3D formation of thyroid cells cultured under simulated microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha Kopp
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von Guericke-University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Warnke
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von Guericke-University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Markus Wehland
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von Guericke-University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ganna Aleshcheva
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von Guericke-University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Nils E Magnusson
- Medical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Ruth Hemmersbach
- DLR German Aerospace Centre, Department of Gravitational Biology, 51147 Cologne, Köln, Germany
| | | | - Johann Bauer
- Max-Planck-Institute of Biochemistry Martinsried, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von Guericke-University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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20
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Proshchina AE, Krivova YS, Saveliev SC. Pancreas of C57 black mice after long-term space flight (Bion-M1 Space Mission). LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2015; 7:22-26. [PMID: 26553634 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2015.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we analysed the pancreases of C57BL/6N mice in order to estimate the effects of long-term space flights. Mice were flown aboard the Bion-M1 biosatellite, or remained on ground in the control experiment that replicated environmental and housing conditions in the spacecraft. Vivarium control group was used to account for housing effects. Each of the groups included mice designated for recovery studies. Mice pancreases were dissected for histological and immunohistochemical examinations. Using a morphometry and statistical analysis, a strong correlation between the mean islet size and the mean body weight was revealed in all groups. Therefore, we propose that hypokinesia and an increase in nutrition play an important role in alterations of the endocrine pancreas, both in space flight and terrestrial conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Proshchina
- FSBSI Science Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Y S Krivova
- FSBSI Science Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
| | - S C Saveliev
- FSBSI Science Research Institute of Human Morphology, Moscow, Russia
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21
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Albi E, Ambesi-Impiombato FS, Lazzarini A, Lazzarini R, Floridi A, Cataldi S, Loreti E, Ferri I, Curcio F. Reinterpretation of mouse thyroid changes under space conditions: the contribution of confinement to damage. ASTROBIOLOGY 2014; 14:563-567. [PMID: 24945896 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2014.1166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
During space missions, astronauts work in a state of separation from their daily social environment and in physical confinement. It has been shown that confinement influences mood and brain cortical activity, but no data has been obtained with regard to its effect on the thyroid gland, the structure and function of which change during spaceflights. Here, we report the results of a study on the effects of confinement on mouse thyroid, which was implemented with the Mice Drawer System Facility maintained on the ground, a system used for spaceflight experiments. The results show that confinement changes the microscopic structure of the thyroid gland and that it exhibits symptoms similar to those that result from physiological and/or pathological hyperfunction. What is left unchanged, however, is the sphingomyelinase-thyrotropin receptor relationship, which is important for thyrotropin response with a consequential production of hormones that act on the metabolism of almost all tissues and reduces the production of calcitonin, a hormone involved in bone metabolism. During space missions, the overexpression of pleiotrophin, a widespread cytokine up-regulated after tissue injury that acts on bone remodeling, attenuates changes to the thyroid that are spaceflight-dependent; therefore we studied the thyroids of pleiotrophin-transgenic mice in the Mice Drawer System Facility. In confinement, pleiotrophin overexpression does not protect from the loss of calcitonin. The contribution of confinement to thyroid damage during spaceflights is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Albi
- 1 Laboratory of Nuclear Lipid BioPathology , CRABiON, Perugia, Italy
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22
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Grimm D, Wehland M, Pietsch J, Aleshcheva G, Wise P, van Loon J, Ulbrich C, Magnusson NE, Infanger M, Bauer J. Growing tissues in real and simulated microgravity: new methods for tissue engineering. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2014; 20:555-66. [PMID: 24597549 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2013.0704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Tissue engineering in simulated (s-) and real microgravity (r-μg) is currently a topic in Space medicine contributing to biomedical sciences and their applications on Earth. The principal aim of this review is to highlight the advances and accomplishments in the field of tissue engineering that could be achieved by culturing cells in Space or by devices created to simulate microgravity on Earth. Understanding the biology of three-dimensional (3D) multicellular structures is very important for a more complete appreciation of in vivo tissue function and advancing in vitro tissue engineering efforts. Various cells exposed to r-μg in Space or to s-μg created by a random positioning machine, a 2D-clinostat, or a rotating wall vessel bioreactor grew in the form of 3D tissues. Hence, these methods represent a new strategy for tissue engineering of a variety of tissues, such as regenerated cartilage, artificial vessel constructs, and other organ tissues as well as multicellular cancer spheroids. These aggregates are used to study molecular mechanisms involved in angiogenesis, cancer development, and biology and for pharmacological testing of, for example, chemotherapeutic drugs or inhibitors of neoangiogenesis. Moreover, they are useful for studying multicellular responses in toxicology and radiation biology, or for performing coculture experiments. The future will show whether these tissue-engineered constructs can be used for medical transplantations. Unveiling the mechanisms of microgravity-dependent molecular and cellular changes is an up-to-date requirement for improving Space medicine and developing new treatment strategies that can be translated to in vivo models while reducing the use of laboratory animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Grimm
- 1 Institute of Biomedicine, Pharmacology, Aarhus University , Aarhus, Denmark
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23
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Horn ER, Gabriel M. Gender-related sensitivity of development and growth to real microgravity inXenopus laevis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 321:1-12. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.1831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eberhard R. Horn
- Zoological Institute; Cell and Developmental Biology; Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT); Karlsruhe Germany
| | - Martin Gabriel
- Büsgen Institut; Universität Göttingen; Göttingen Germany
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Pietsch J, Ma X, Wehland M, Aleshcheva G, Schwarzwälder A, Segerer J, Birlem M, Horn A, Bauer J, Infanger M, Grimm D. Spheroid formation of human thyroid cancer cells in an automated culturing system during the Shenzhou-8 Space mission. Biomaterials 2013; 34:7694-705. [PMID: 23866977 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.06.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Human follicular thyroid cancer cells were cultured in Space to investigate the impact of microgravity on 3D growth. For this purpose, we designed and constructed a cell container that can endure enhanced physical forces, is connected to fluid storage chambers, performs media changes and cell harvesting automatically and supports cell viability. The container consists of a cell suspension chamber, two reserve tanks for medium and fixative and a pump for fluid exchange. The selected materials proved durable, non-cytotoxic, and did not inactivate RNAlater. This container was operated automatically during the unmanned Shenzhou-8 Space mission. FTC-133 human follicular thyroid cancer cells were cultured in Space for 10 days. Culture medium was exchanged after 5 days in Space and the cells were fixed after 10 days. The experiment revealed a scaffold-free formation of extraordinary large three-dimensional aggregates by thyroid cancer cells with altered expression of EGF and CTGF genes under real microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pietsch
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39112 Magdeburg, Germany
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Baldini E, D'Armiento M, Sorrenti S, Del Sordo M, Mocini R, Morrone S, Gnessi L, Curcio F, Ulisse S. Effects of ultraviolet radiation on FRTL-5 cell growth and thyroid-specific gene expression. ASTROBIOLOGY 2013; 13:536-542. [PMID: 23697699 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2013.0972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
During space missions, radiation represents a major hazard for human health and involves all body organs and tissues. Regarding thyroid function, it has been shown that ultraviolet radiation (UVC) has dose-dependent apoptotic effects on FRTL-5 cells, a normal strain of rat thyrocytes. We examined the effects of a sublethal dose of UVC on FRTL-5 cell growth and gene expression. Cells exposed to 10 J/m(2) UVC showed no differences in viability compared to control cells after 24 h, but the BrdU incorporation was reduced, indicating a cytostatic effect. Quantitative RT-PCR carried out at 24 and 48 h after irradiation demonstrated that the mRNA levels of thyroglobulin (Tg), thyroperoxidase (Tpo), and sodium/iodide symporter (Nis) were transiently decreased at 24 h in treated cells, while the mRNAs of the thyroid transcription factors TTF1, Foxe1, and Pax8 were not affected. In cells cultured with TSH-free medium, the basal transcription of Tg, Tpo, and Nis genes was equally impaired by radiation and no longer stimulated by TSH. Overall, the results demonstrate that a sub-apoptotic dose of UVC compromises not only thyrocyte proliferation but also the expression of genes involved in thyroid hormone production. These findings might contribute to explaining the histological, biochemical, and clinical features of hypothyroidism observed in both animals and humans during spaceflight, and suggest that free thyroxine levels of astronauts during prolonged space missions should be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enke Baldini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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26
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Smith SM, Heer M, Wang Z, Huntoon CL, Zwart SR. Long-duration space flight and bed rest effects on testosterone and other steroids. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:270-8. [PMID: 22049169 PMCID: PMC3251930 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2011-2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Limited data suggest that testosterone is decreased during space flight, which could contribute to bone and muscle loss. OBJECTIVE The main objective was to assess testosterone and hormone status in long- and short-duration space flight and bed rest environments and to determine relationships with other physiological systems, including bone and muscle. DESIGN Blood and urine samples were collected before, during, and after long-duration space flight. Samples were also collected before and after 12- to 14-d missions and from participants in 30- to 90-d bed rest studies. SETTING Space flight studies were conducted on the International Space Station and before and after Space Shuttle missions. Bed rest studies were conducted in a clinical research center setting. Data from Skylab missions are also presented. PARTICIPANTS All of the participants were male, and they included 15 long-duration and nine short-duration mission crew members and 30 bed rest subjects. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Serum total, free, and bioavailable testosterone were measured along with serum and urinary cortisol, serum dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and SHBG. RESULTS Total, free, and bioavailable testosterone was not changed during long-duration space flight but were decreased (P < 0.01) on landing day after these flights and after short-duration space flight. There were no changes in other hormones measured. Testosterone concentrations dropped before and soon after bed rest, but bed rest itself had no effect on testosterone. CONCLUSIONS There was no evidence for decrements in testosterone during long-duration space flight or bed rest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M Smith
- Space Life Sciences Directorate, Johnson Space Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Enterprise Advisory Services, Inc, Houston, Texas 77058, USA.
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Ding Y, Tang J, Zou J, She R, Wang Y, Yue Z, Tian J, Xia K, Yin J, Wang D. The effect of microgravity on tissue structure and function of rat testis. Braz J Med Biol Res 2011; 44:1243-50. [PMID: 22042268 DOI: 10.1590/s0100-879x2011007500147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To explore whether an environment of weightlessness will cause damage to the reproductive system of animals, we used the tail-suspension model to simulate microgravity, and investigated the effect of microgravity on the tissue structure and function of the testis in sexually mature male rats. Forty-eight male Wistar rats weighing 200-250 g were randomly assigned to three groups (N = 16 each): control, tail traction, and tail suspension. After the rats were suspended for 7 or 14 days, morphological changes of testis were evaluated by histological and electron microscopic methods. The expression of HSP70, bax/bcl-2 and AR (androgen receptor) in testis was measured by immunohistochemistry. Obvious pathological lesions were present in the testis after the rats were suspended for 7 or 14 days. We detected overexpression of HSP70 and an increase of apoptotic cells, which may have contributed to the injury to the testis. The expression of AR, as an effector molecule in the testis, was significantly decreased in the suspended groups compared to control (P < 0.01). We also observed that, with a longer time of suspension, the aforementioned pathological damage became more serious and some pathological injury to the testis was irreversible. The results demonstrated that a short- or medium-term microgravity environment could lead to severe irreversible damage to the structure of rat testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Ding
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, China Agricultural University, Beijing
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Lindsey BW, Dumbarton TC, Moorman SJ, Smith FM, Croll RP. Effects of simulated microgravity on the development of the swimbladder and buoyancy control in larval zebrafish (Danio rerio). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 315:302-13. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2010] [Revised: 12/29/2010] [Accepted: 02/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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THE CATEGORIES OF EVIDENCE RELATING TO THE HYPOTHESIS THAT MAMMALIAN SEX RATIOS AT BIRTH ARE CAUSALLY RELATED TO THE HORMONE CONCENTRATIONS OF BOTH PARENTS AROUND THE TIME OF CONCEPTION. J Biosoc Sci 2010; 43:167-84. [DOI: 10.1017/s0021932010000660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SummaryThis note categorizes the evidence for the hypothesis that mammalian offspring sex ratios (proportions male) are causally related to the hormone levels of both parents around the time of conception. Most of the evidence may be acknowledged to be correlational and observational. As such it might be suspected of having been selected; or of having been subject to other forms of bias or confounding; or, at any rate, of being inadequate as a firm basis for causal inference. However, there are other types of evidence that are not vulnerable to these types of criticism. These are from the following sources: (1) previously neglected data from Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia; (2) fulfilled predictions; (3) genetics; and (4) a network of logically (mathematically) related propositions, for some of which there is overwhelming empirical evidence. It is suggested that this variety of evidence confers greater overall credibility on the hypothesis than would be the case if all the evidence were of the same observational/correlational status. This observational/correlational evidence is tabulated to illustrate its consistency.
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Pietsch J, Kussian R, Sickmann A, Bauer J, Weber G, Nissum M, Westphal K, Egli M, Grosse J, Schönberger J, Wildgruber R, Infanger M, Grimm D. Application of free-flow IEF to identify protein candidates changing under microgravity conditions. Proteomics 2010; 10:904-13. [PMID: 20049858 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200900226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Using antibody-related methods, we recently found that human thyroid cells express various proteins differently depending on whether they are cultured under normal gravity (1g) or simulated microgravity (s-microg). In this study, we performed proteome analysis in order to identify more gravity-sensitive thyroid proteins. Cells cultured under 1g or s-microg conditions were sonicated. Proteins released into the supernatant and those remaining in the cell fragments were fractionated by free-flow IEF. The fractions obtained were further separated by SDS-gel electrophoresis. Selected gel pieces were excised and their proteins were determined by MS. A total of 235 different proteins were found. Out of 235 proteins, 37 appeared to be first identifications in human thyroid cells. Comparing SDS gel lanes of equally numbered free-flow IEF fractions revealed similar patterns with a number of identical bands if proteins of a distinct cell line had been applied, irrespective of whether the cells had been cultured under 1g or s-microg. Most of the identical band pairs contained identical proteins. However, the concentrations of some types of proteins were different within the two pieces of gel. Proteins that concentrated differently in such pieces of gel are considered as candidates for further investigations of gravitational sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pietsch
- FU-Berlin, Division of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Berlin, Germany
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Martinelli L, Russomano T, dos Santos M, Falcao F, Bauer M, Machado A, Sundaresan A. Effect of microgravity on immune cell viability and proliferation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 28:85-90. [DOI: 10.1109/memb.2009.933572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Sajdel-Sulkowska EM. Brain development, environment and sex: what can we learn from studying graviperception, gravitransduction and the gravireaction of the developing CNS to altered gravity? THE CEREBELLUM 2009; 7:223-39. [PMID: 18418693 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-008-0001-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
As man embarks on space exploration and contemplates space habitation, there is a critical need for basic understanding of the impact of the environmental factors of space, and in particular gravity, on human survival, health, reproduction and development. This review summarizes our present knowledge on the effect of altered gravity on the developing CNS with respect to the response of the developing CNS to altered gravity (gravireaction), the physiological changes associated with altered gravity that could contribute to this effect (gravitransduction), and the possible mechanisms involved in the detection of altered gravity (graviperception). Some of these findings transcend gravitational research and are relevant to our understanding of the impact of environmental factors on CNS development on Earth.
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Sharma CS, Sarkar S, Periyakaruppan A, Ravichandran P, Sadanandan B, Ramesh V, Thomas R, Hall JC, Wilson BL, Ramesh GT. Simulated microgravity activates apoptosis and NF-kappaB in mice testis. Mol Cell Biochem 2008; 313:71-8. [PMID: 18385949 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-008-9743-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Microgravity is known to have significant effect on all aspects of reproductive function in animal models. Recent studies have also shown that microgravity induces changes at the cellular level, including apoptosis. Our effort here was to study the effect of simulated microgravity on caspase-8 and the caspase-3 activities, the effectors of the apoptotic pathway and on the transcription factor NF-kappaB a signaling molecule in mouse testis. Morey-Holton hind limb suspension model was used to simulate microgravity. Caspase-8 and 3 fluorometric assays were carried out and HLS mice testis exhibited a 51% increase in caspase-8 and caspase-3 compared to the controls. A sandwich ELISA-based immunoassay was carried out for detection of NF-kappaB which again significantly increased in the test mice. Testosterone levels were measured using an ELISA kit and in HLS mice the decrease was significant. There was also a significant decrease in testis weight in the test mice. Simulated microgravity activates caspase 8, 3 and NF-kappaB necessary to stimulate the apoptotic pathway in mice testis. This may account for the drop in testis weight and testosterone level further affecting testicular physiology and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chidananda S Sharma
- Department of Biology, Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Center for Biotechnology & Biomedical Sciences, Norfolk State University, Norfolk, VA 23504, USA
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Minatoya Y, Ito K, Kagaya Y, Asaumi Y, Takeda M, Nakayama M, Takahashi J, Iguchi A, Shirato K, Shimokawa H. Depressed contractile reserve and impaired calcium handling of cardiac myocytes from chronically unloaded hearts are ameliorated with the administration of physiological treatment dose of T3 in rats. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2007; 189:221-31. [PMID: 17305702 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.2006.01636.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Chronic cardiac unloading causes a time-dependent upregulation of phospholamban (PLB) and depression of myocyte contractility in normal rat hearts. As thyroid hormone is known to decrease PLB expression, we examined whether thyroid hormone restores the depressed contractile performance of myocytes from chronically unloaded hearts. METHODS Cardiac unloading was induced by heterotopic heart transplantation in isogenic rats for 5 weeks. Animals were treated with either vehicle or physiological treatment dose of 3,5,3'-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) that does not cause hyperthyroidism for the last 3 weeks (n=20 each). RESULTS In vehicle-treated animals, myocyte relaxation and [Ca2+]i decay were slower in unloaded hearts than in recipient hearts. Myocyte shortening in response to high [Ca2+]o was also depressed with impaired augmentation of peak-systolic [Ca2+]i in unloaded hearts compared with recipient hearts. In vehicle-treated rats, protein levels of PLB were increased by 136% and the phosphorylation level of PLB at Ser16 were decreased by 32% in unloaded hearts compared with recipient hearts. By contrast, in the T3-treated animals, the slower relaxation, delayed [Ca2+]i decay, and depressed contractile reserve in myocytes from unloaded hearts were all returned to normal levels. Furthermore, in the T3-treated animals, there was no difference either in the PLB protein level or in its Ser16-phosphorylation level between unloaded and recipient hearts. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the treatment with physiological treatment dose of thyroid hormone rescues the impaired myocyte relaxation and depressed contractile reserve at least partially through the restoration of PLB protein levels and its phosphorylation state in chronically unloaded hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Minatoya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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35
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Manti L. Does reduced gravity alter cellular response to ionizing radiation? RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2006; 45:1-8. [PMID: 16523345 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-006-0037-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2005] [Accepted: 02/08/2006] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This review addresses the purported interplay between actual or simulated weightlessness and cellular response to ionizing radiation. Although weightlessness is known to alter several cellular functions and to affect signaling pathways implicated in cell proliferation, differentiation and death, its influence on cellular radiosensitivity has so far proven elusive. Renewed controversy as to whether reduced gravity enhances long-term radiation risk is fueled by recently published data that claim either overall enhancement of genomic damage or no increase of radiation-induced clastogenicity by modeled microgravity in irradiated human cells. In elucidating this crucial aspect of space radiation protection, ground-based experiments, such as those based on rotating-wall bioreactors, will increasingly be used and represent a more reproducible alternative to in-flight experiments. These low-shear vessels also make three-dimensional cellular co-cultures possible and thus allow to study the gravisensitivity of radioresponse in a context that better mimics cell-to-cell communication and hence in vivo cellular behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Manti
- Radiation Biophysics Laboratory, Physics Department, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy.
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James WH. Offspring sex ratios at birth as markers of paternal endocrine disruption. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2006; 100:77-85. [PMID: 15922323 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2005.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2004] [Revised: 03/02/2005] [Accepted: 03/08/2005] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
There is good evidence that paternal (and maternal) hormone levels at the time of conception are associated with offspring sex ratios (proportions male) at birth. The mechanisms underlying this association (pre- or postzygotic) are not of primary relevance here. When people are exposed to endocrine-disrupting agents, these agents may have different hormonal effects on men and women. So, if endocrine disruption is to be revealed by offspring sex ratios, it is necessary to categorize the sexes of subsequent offspring by the four possible parental mating classes, viz. exposed/unexposed mothers/fathers. In general, substantially altered sex ratios may reveal endocrine disruption, but the tiny (admittedly significant) secular meanderings of national live birth sex ratios across the 20th Century (and before) are not now readily interpretable.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H James
- The Galton Laboratory, University College London, Wolfson House, 4 Stephenson Way, London NW 1 2 HE, UK.
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Bigbee AJ, Grindeland RE, Roy RR, Zhong H, Gosselink KL, Arnaud S, Edgerton VR. Basal and evoked levels of bioassayable growth hormone are altered by hindlimb unloading. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2005; 100:1037-42. [PMID: 16339349 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00615.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioassayable growth hormone (BGH) in rats is released in large quantities from the pituitary in response to the activation of large, proprioceptive afferent fibers from fast and mixed fiber-type hindlimb musculature. We hypothesized that hindlimb unloading (HU) of adult male rats would 1) reduce the basal levels of plasma BGH, and 2) abolish stimulus-induced BGH release. Rats were exposed to HU for 1, 4, or 8 wk. Plasma and pituitaries were collected under isoflurane anesthesia for hormone analyses. Additionally, at 4 and 8 wk, a subset of rats underwent an in situ electrical stimulation (Stim) of tibial nerve proprioceptive afferents. Basal plasma BGH levels were significantly reduced (-51 and -23%) after 1 and 8 wk of HU compared with ambulatory controls (Amb). Although Amb-Stim rats exhibited increased plasma BGH levels (88 and 143%) and decreased pituitary BGH levels (-27 and -22%) at 4 and 8 wk, respectively, stimulation in HU rats had the opposite effect, reducing plasma BGH (-25 and -33%) and increasing pituitary BGH levels (47 and 10%) relative to HU alone at 4 and 8 wk. The 22-kDa form of GH measured by immunoassay and the plasma corticosterone, T3, T4, and testosterone levels were unchanged by HU or Stim at all time points. These data suggest that BGH synthesis and release from the pituitary are sensitive both to chronically reduced neuromuscular loading and to acute changes in neuromuscular activation, independent of changes in other circulating hormones. Thus BGH may play a role in muscle, bone, and metabolic adaptations that occur in response to chronically unloaded states.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Bigbee
- Department of Neurobiology, Univ. of California, Los Angeles, 1804 Life Science Bldg., 621 Charles E Young Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Kaur I, Simons ER, Castro VA, Ott CM, Pierson DL. Changes in monocyte functions of astronauts. Brain Behav Immun 2005; 19:547-54. [PMID: 15908177 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2004.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2004] [Revised: 09/30/2004] [Accepted: 12/28/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of the systematic evaluation of the innate immune system for long duration missions, this study focused on the antimicrobial functions of monocytes in astronauts participating in spaceflight. The study included four space shuttle missions and 25 astronauts. Nine non-astronauts served as controls. Blood specimens were collected 10 days before launch, within 3h after landing, and again 3 days after landing. The number of monocytes did not differ significantly over the interval sampled in both the astronaut or control groups. However, following 5-11 days of spaceflight, the astronauts' monocytes exhibited reductions in ability to engulf Escherichia coli, elicit an oxidative burst, and degranulate. The phagocytic index was significantly reduced following spaceflight when compared to control values. This reduction in phagocytosis was accompanied by changes in the expression of two surface markers involved in phagocytosis, CD32 and CD64. Levels of cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine after spaceflight did not increase over preflight values.
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James WH. Possible constraints on adaptive variation in sex ratio at birth in humans and other primates. J Theor Biol 2005; 238:383-94. [PMID: 16045937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2005.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2005] [Revised: 04/26/2005] [Accepted: 05/24/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
There is general agreement that adaptive variation of sex ratio at birth has not been decisively demonstrated in primates (including human beings). So some workers have questioned whether it actually exists. Others have conjectured that it exists but is subject to as yet unidentified 'constraints' (factors opposing the modifying influences of selection in the phenotype). Meanwhile though most workers have called for research to reveal the proximate causes of sex ratio variation, few (if any) have directed studies toward that end. Here it is argued that hormonal action is responsible both for much adaptive and non-adaptive sex ratio variation, and for constraints on the adaptive variation. My hypothesis proposes that levels of steroid hormones (testosterone and oestrogen) of both parents around the time of conception are positively associated with offspring sex ratio (proportion male at birth) of mammals including man. Testosterone in men and oestrogen in women are also known to be positively associated with the health, attractiveness and fertility of individual human beings. However, high levels of testosterone in women are frequently associated with adverse medical conditions. It is suggested that for these reasons (and contrary to some adaptive theory) some classes of people (particularly women) in suboptimal health ("condition") produce excesses of sons. It seems that gonadal hormones are responsible for adaptive variation; and that maternal adrenal hormones are responsible for maladaptive variation. In evolutionary terms, gonadal hormones precede adrenal hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H James
- The Galton Laboratory, University College London, Wolfson House, 4 Stephenson Way, London NW1 2HE, UK.
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Wade CE, Stanford KI, Stein TP, Greenleaf JE. Intensive exercise training suppresses testosterone during bed rest. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2005; 99:59-63. [PMID: 15705732 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00332.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight and prolonged bed rest (BR) alter plasma hormone levels inconsistently. This may be due, in part, to prescription of heavy exercise as a countermeasure for ameliorating the adverse effects of disuse. The initial project was to assess exercise programs to maintain aerobic performance and leg strength during BR. The present study evaluates the effect of BR and the performance of the prescribed exercise countermeasures on plasma steroid levels. In a 30-day BR study of male subjects, the efficacy of isotonic (ITE, n = 7) or isokinetic exercise (IKE, n = 7) training was evaluated in contrast to no exercise ( n = 5). These exercise countermeasures protected aerobic performance and leg strength successfully. BR alone (no-exercise group) did not change steroidogenesis, as assessed by the plasma concentrations of cortisol, progesterone, aldosterone, and free (FT) and total testosterone (TT). In the exercise groups, both FT and TT were decreased ( P < 0.05): FT during IKE from 24 ± 1.7 to 18 ± 2.0 pg/ml and during ITE from 21 ± 1.5 to 18 ± 1 pg/ml, and TT during IKE from 748 ± 68 to 534 ± 46 ng/dl and during ITE from 565 ± 36 to 496 ± 38 ng/dl. The effect of intensive exercise countermeasures on plasma testosterone was not associated with indexes of overtraining. The reduction in plasma testosterone associated with both the IKE and ITE countermeasures during BR supports our hypothesis that intensive exercise countermeasures may, in part, contribute to changes in plasma steroid concentrations during spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Wade
- Life Sciences Division, National Aeronautics and Space Administration Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California, USA.
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Bucaro MA, Fertala J, Adams CS, Steinbeck M, Ayyaswamy P, Mukundakrishnan K, Shapiro IM, Risbud MV. Bone cell survival in microgravity: evidence that modeled microgravity increases osteoblast sensitivity to apoptogens. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2005; 1027:64-73. [PMID: 15644346 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1324.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Studies were performed to evaluate the effects of modeled microgravity on the induction of osteoblast apoptosis. MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells were cultured in alginate carriers in the NASA-approved high aspect ratio vessel (HARV). This system subjects the cells to a time-averaged gravitational field (vector-averaged gravity) to simulate low gravity conditions. Cells were cultured in the HARV for five days, and then examined for apoptosis. In simulated microgravity, the cells remained vital, although analysis of expressed genes indicated that there was loss of the mature osteoblast phenotype. Additionally, we noted that there was a loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential, a low level of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2, as well as Akt protein, and the redox status of the cells was disturbed. All of these parameters indicated that vector-averaged gravity disrupts mitochondrial function, thereby sensitizing osteoblasts to apoptosis. We then used a challenge assay to evaluate the apoptotic sensitivity of the cells subjected to vector-averaged gravity. When challenged with staurosporine, cells subjected to vector-averaged gravity evidenced elevated levels of cell death relative to control cell populations. Another objective of the study was to improve upon conventional carriers by using alginate encapsulation to support cells in the HARV. We have demonstrated that the alginate carrier system affords a more robust system than surface-seeded carriers. This new system has the advantage of shielding cells from mechanical damage and fluid shear stresses on cells in the HARV, permitting carefully controlled studies of the effects of vector-averaged gravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Bucaro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Plett PA, Abonour R, Frankovitz SM, Orschell CM. Impact of modeled microgravity on migration, differentiation, and cell cycle control of primitive human hematopoietic progenitor cells. Exp Hematol 2004; 32:773-81. [PMID: 15308329 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2004.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2003] [Revised: 02/24/2004] [Accepted: 03/24/2004] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Migration, proliferation, and differentiation of bone marrow (BM) hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are important factors in maintaining hematopoietic homeostasis. Homeostatic control of erythrocytes and lymphocytes is perturbed in humans exposed to microgravity (micro-g), resulting in space flight-induced anemia and immunosuppression. We sought to determine whether any of these anomalies can be explained by micro-g-induced changes in migration, proliferation, and differentiation of human BM CD34+ cells, and whether such changes can begin to explain any of the shifts in hematopoietic homeostasis observed in astronauts. MATERIALS AND METHODS BM CD34+ cells were cultured in modeled micro-g (mmicro-g) using NASA's rotating wall vessels (RWV), or in control cultures at earth gravity for 2 to 18 days. Cells were harvested at different times and CD34+ cells assessed for migration potential, cell-cycle kinetics and regulatory proteins, and maturation status. RESULTS Culture of BM CD34+ cells in RWV for 2 to 3 days resulted in a significant reduction of stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1alpha)-directed migration, which correlated with decreased expression of F-actin. Modeled micro-g induced alterations in cell-cycle kinetics that were characterized by prolonged S phase and reduced cyclin A expression. Differentiation of primitive CD34+ cells cultured for 14 to 18 days in RWV favored myeloid cell development at the expense of erythroid development, which was significantly reduced compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS These results illustrate that mmicro-g significantly inhibits the migration potential, cell-cycle progression, and differentiation patterns of primitive BM CD34+ cells, which may contribute to some of the hematologic abnormalities observed in humans during space flight.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Artur Plett
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202, USA.
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Kaur I, Simons ER, Castro VA, Mark Ott C, Pierson DL. Changes in neutrophil functions in astronauts. Brain Behav Immun 2004; 18:443-50. [PMID: 15265537 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2003.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2003] [Revised: 09/23/2003] [Accepted: 10/30/2003] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Exploration class human spaceflight missions will require astronauts with robust immune systems. Innate immunity will be an essential element for the healthcare maintenance of astronauts during these lengthy expeditions. This study investigated neutrophil phagocytosis, oxidative burst, and degranulation of 25 astronauts after four space shuttle missions and in nine healthy control subjects. Space flight duration ranged from 5 to 11 days. Blood specimens were obtained 10 days before launch, immediately after landing, and 3 days after landing. The number of neutrophils increased by 85% at landing compared to preflight levels. The mean values for phagocytosis of Escherichia coli and oxidative burst capacity in neutrophils from astronauts on the 5-day mission were not significantly different from those observed in neutrophils from the control subjects. Before and after 9- to 11-day missions, however, phagocytosis and oxidative burst capacities were significantly lower than control mean values. No consistent changes in degranulation or expression of surface markers were observed before or after any of the space missions. This study indicates that neutrophil phagocytic and oxidative functions are affected by factors associated with space flight and this relationship may depend on mission duration.
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Macho L, Koska J, Ksínantová L, Vigas M, Blazícek P, Noskov VB, Grigoriev AI, Pacák K, Kvetnanský R. Effects of Real and Simulated Microgravity on Response of Sympathoadrenal System to Various Stress Stimuli. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2004; 1018:550-61. [PMID: 15240414 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1296.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Changes in plasma levels of epinephrine (EPI) and norepinephrine (NE) were investigated in humans exposed to physical exercise (WL), to psychic stressor (mental arithmetic test, MAT), and to oral glucose administration (oGTT) before and during a stay in microgravity (real space flight, SF) or in simulated microgravity (head-down bed rest, HDBR). A permanent cannula inserted into the cubital vein and a special appliance, Plasma-03, were used for blood collection, plasma separation, and freezing of samples during SF. Plasma EPI, NE, dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG), and dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) levels were measured by the high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Basal plasma EPI, NE, DHPG, and DOPA levels were found within the range of control values during SF. Preflight WL produced high increase in plasma NE and moderate elevation of plasma EPI, DHPG, and DOPA levels. Exaggerated exercise induced increases in plasma NE, DHPG, EPI, and DOPA levels were demonstrated in real microgravity. A return to preflight responses of sympathoadrenal system was seen after the landing. Plasma EPI, NE, and DHPG responses to MAT were relatively small, but increased during SF. During the oGTT the plasma EPI levels were slightly reduced in microgravity. Similarly as in SF, WL in HDBR was followed by significantly exaggerated responses of plasma catecholamines. These results show that both somatic and psychological stressors are able to induce an increased activation of sympathoadrenal system during SF or simulated microgravity in HDBR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladislav Macho
- MD, DrSc, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Vlárska 3, 83306 Bratislava, Slovakia.
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Kossmehl P, Shakibaei M, Cogoli A, Infanger M, Curcio F, Schönberger J, Eilles C, Bauer J, Pickenhahn H, Schulze-Tanzil G, Paul M, Grimm D. Weightlessness induced apoptosis in normal thyroid cells and papillary thyroid carcinoma cells via extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. Endocrinology 2003; 144:4172-9. [PMID: 12933692 DOI: 10.1210/en.2002-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Apoptosis plays a pivotal role in development, tissue homeostasis, cancer, immune defense, and response to weightlessness. It can be initiated by external signals via death receptors, but may also emerge from mitochondria. We exposed mitochondria-rich thyroid carcinoma cells (ONCO-DG1 cell line) and normal thyroid cells (HTU-5) to conditions of simulated microgravity. After 24 h, 10% of the cancer cells had entered a Fas-dependent apoptotic pathway, but destruction and redistribution of mitochondria, microtubuli disruption, and caspase-3 activation were also detected, demonstrating the activation of extrinsic as well as intrinsic pathways. Furthermore, ONCO-DG1 cells grown on the clinostat showed elevated amounts of Bax, but reduced quantities of bcl-2. In addition, signs of apoptosis became detectable, as assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP digoxigenin nick end labeling, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining, and 85-kDa apoptosis-related cleavage fragments. These fragments resulted from enhanced 116-kDa poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase activity and apoptosis. Apoptosis was also detected in normal HTU-5 cells, as demonstrated by electron microscopy, activation of caspase-3, increases in Fas and Bax, and elevation of 85-kDa apoptosis-related cleavage fragments resulting from enhanced poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activity. Gravitational unloading affects the mitochondria and thereby may trigger apoptosis in thyroid cells subjected to weightlessness by clinorotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kossmehl
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Benjamin Franklin Medical Center, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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Woods CC, Banks KE, Gruener R, DeLuca D. Loss of T cell precursors after spaceflight and exposure to vector-averaged gravity. FASEB J 2003; 17:1526-8. [PMID: 12824295 DOI: 10.1096/fj.02-0749fje] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Using fetal thymus organ culture (FTOC), we examined the effects of spaceflight and vector-averaged gravity on T cell development. Under both conditions, the development of T cells was significantly attenuated. Exposure to spaceflight for 16 days resulted in a loss of precursors for CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+CD8+ T cells in a rat/mouse xenogeneic co-culture. A significant decrease in the same precursor cells, as well as a decrease in CD4-CD8- T cell precursors, was also observed in a murine C57BL/6 FTOC after rotation in a clinostat to produce a vector-averaged microgravity-like environment. The block in T cell development appeared to occur between the pre-T cell and CD4+CD8+ T cell stage. These data indicate that gravity plays a decisive role in the development of T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris C Woods
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85724, USA
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Flück M, Hoppeler H. Molecular basis of skeletal muscle plasticity--from gene to form and function. Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2003; 146:159-216. [PMID: 12605307 DOI: 10.1007/s10254-002-0004-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 292] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle shows an enormous plasticity to adapt to stimuli such as contractile activity (endurance exercise, electrical stimulation, denervation), loading conditions (resistance training, microgravity), substrate supply (nutritional interventions) or environmental factors (hypoxia). The presented data show that adaptive structural events occur in both muscle fibres (myofibrils, mitochondria) and associated structures (motoneurons and capillaries). Functional adaptations appear to involve alterations in regulatory mechanisms (neuronal, endocrine and intracellular signalling), contractile properties and metabolic capacities. With the appropriate molecular techniques it has been demonstrated over the past 10 years that rapid changes in skeletal muscle mRNA expression occur with exercise in human and rodent species. Recently, gene expression profiling analysis has demonstrated that transcriptional adaptations in skeletal muscle due to changes in loading involve a broad range of genes and that mRNA changes often run parallel for genes in the same functional categories. These changes can be matched to the structural/functional adaptations known to occur with corresponding stimuli. Several signalling pathways involving cytoplasmic protein kinases and nuclear-encoded transcription factors are recognized as potential master regulators that transduce physiological stress into transcriptional adaptations of batteries of metabolic and contractile genes. Nuclear reprogramming is recognized as an important event in muscle plasticity and may be related to the adaptations in the myosin type, protein turnover, and the cytoplasma-to-myonucleus ratio. The accessibility of muscle tissue to biopsies in conjunction with the advent of high-throughput gene expression analysis technology points to skeletal muscle plasticity as a particularly useful paradigm for studying gene regulatory phenomena in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Flück
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, Bühlstrasse 26, 3000, Bern 9, Switzerland.
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Macho L, Koska J, Ksinantova L, Pacak K, Hoff T, Noskov VB, Grigoriev AI, Vigas M, Kvetnansky R. The response of endocrine system to stress loads during space flight in human subject. ADVANCES IN SPACE RESEARCH : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE COMMITTEE ON SPACE RESEARCH (COSPAR) 2003; 31:1605-1610. [PMID: 12971416 DOI: 10.1016/s0273-1177(03)00097-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The responses of endocrine system to the exposure to stress-work load and hormonal changes during oral glucose tolerance tests were studied in the Slovak astronaut before (three weeks before flight), during (on the 4th and the 6th days of space flight), and after space flight (1-3 days and 15-17 days after space flight) on board of space station MIR. Blood samples during the tests were collected via cannula inserted into cubital vein, centrifuged in the special appliance Plasma-03, frozen in Kryogem-03, and at the end of the 8-day space flight transferred to Earth in special container for hormonal analysis. Preflight workload produced an increase of plasma norepinephrine and a moderate elevation of epinephrine levels. Plasma levels of insulin, growth hormone, prolactin and cortisol were not markedly changed immediately or 10 min after the end of work load. The higher increases of plasma growth hormone, prolactin and catecholamine levels were noted after workload during space flight as compared to preflight response. The higher plasma glucose and insulin levels were noted during the oral glucose tolerance test in space flight and also in the post flight period. Plasma epinephrine levels were slightly decreasing during glucose tolerance test; however, plasma norepinephrine levels were not changed. The similar patterns of catecholamine levels during glucose tolerance test were found when compared the preflight, in-flight and post flight values. These data demonstrate the changes of the dynamic responses of endocrine system to stress-work and metabolic loads during space flight in human subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Macho
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Longevity with good health and long-term survival in space are two of the many challenges that scientists face in the twenty-first century. Ageing and life in space are both associated with undesirable effects on normal physiological processes. This review will outline how the endocrine, metabolic, immune and musculoskeletal systems are affected by microgravity and ageing, drawing analogies between the observed changes in an attempt to highlight common mechanisms. RECENT FINDINGS Mild hypothyroidism, increased stress hormones (mainly catecholamines), decreased sex steroids, insulin resistance, impaired anabolic response to food intake, anorexia, altered mitochondrial function and systemic inflammatory response are common features of both ageing and microgravity. Both conditions lead to progressive bone and muscle atrophy, compromising mobility and the ability to perform essential daily tasks. In skeletal muscle, both ageing and space flight lead to weakness from whole muscle to single fibre level, accompanied by marked alterations in muscle architecture and in tendon mechanical properties. SUMMARY What makes microgravity an interesting and unique tool for gerontologists is that many space-related physiological changes resemble those observed during ageing, but are more or less quickly restored after re-entry, thus allowing the biology of ageing to be investigated both ways, not only during its development but also during recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianni Biolo
- Department of Clinical, Morphological and Technological Sciences, Division of Internal Medicine, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
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Abstract
Mammalian reproduction evolved within Earth's 1-g gravitational field. As we move closer to the reality of space habitation, there is growing scientific interest in how different gravitational states influence reproduction in mammals. Habitation of space and extended spaceflight missions require prolonged exposure to decreased gravity (hypogravity, i.e., weightlessness). Lift-off and re-entry of the spacecraft are associated with exposure to increased gravity (hypergravity). Existing data suggest that spaceflight is associated with a constellation of changes in reproductive physiology and function. However, limited spaceflight opportunities and confounding effects of various nongravitational factors associated with spaceflight (i.e., radiation, stress) have led to the development of ground-based models for studying the effects of altered gravity on biological systems. Human bed rest and rodent hindlimb unloading paradigms are used to study exposure to hypogravity. Centrifugation is used to study hypergravity. Here, we review the results of spaceflight and ground-based models of altered gravity on reproductive physiology. Studies utilizing ground-based models that simulate hyper- and hypogravity have produced reproductive results similar to those obtained from spaceflight and are contributing new information on biological responses across the gravity continuum, thereby confirming the appropriateness of these models for studying reproductive responses to altered gravity and the underlying mechanisms of these responses. Together, these unique tools are yielding new insights into the gravitational biology of reproduction in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Tou
- Lockheed Martin Sciences and Engineering, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California 94035, USA
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