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Sventitskaya MA, Ogneva IV. Reorganization of the mouse oocyte' cytoskeleton after cultivation under simulated weightlessness. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 40:8-18. [PMID: 38245351 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Female germ cells provide the structural basis for the development of a new organism, while the main molecular mechanisms of the impact of weightlessness on the cell remain unknown. The aim of this work was to determine the relative content and distribution of the main proteins of microtubules and microfilaments, to assess the relative RNA content of genes in mouse oocytes after short-term exposure to simulated microgravity, and to determine the potential for embryo development up to the 3-cell stage. Before starting the study, BALB/c mice were divided into two groups. One group received water and standard food without any modifications. Before exposure to simulated microgravity, the oocytes of these animals were randomly divided into two groups - c and µg. The second group of animals additionally received essential phospholipids containing at least 80% phosphatidylcholines, per os for 6 weeks before the start of the experiment at a dosage of 350 mg/kg of the animal's body to modify the lipid composition of the oocyte membrane. The obtained oocytes of these animals were also randomly divided into two groups - ce and µge. To determine the protein distribution and its relative content, immunofluorescence analysis was performed, and the RNA content of genes was assessed using real-time PCR with reverse transcription. After cultivation under simulated microgravity, beta-actin and acetylated alpha-tubulin are redistributed from the cortical layer to the central part of the oocyte, and the relative content of acetylated alpha-tubulin and tubulin isoforms decreases. At the same time, the mRNA content of most genes encoding cytoskeletal proteins was significantly higher in comparison with the control level. The use of essential phospholipids led to a decrease in the content of cellular cholesterol in the oocyte and leveled changes in the content and redistribution of acetylated alpha-tubulin and beta-actin after cultivation under simulated microgravity. In addition, after in vitro fertilization and further cultivation under simulated weightlessness, we observed a decrease in the number of embryos that passed the stage of the 2-cell embryo, but while taking essential phospholipids, the number of embryos that reached the 3-cell stage did not differ from the control group. The results obtained show changes in the content and redistribution of cytoskeletal proteins in the oocyte, which may be involved in the process of pronucleus migration, the formation of the fission spindle and the contractile ring under simulated weightlessness, which may be important for normal fertilization and cleavage of the future embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Sventitskaya
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoeshosse, Moscow, 123007, Russia; I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya St., Moscow, 119991, Russia.
| | - Irina V Ogneva
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoeshosse, Moscow, 123007, Russia; I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8-2 Trubetskaya St., Moscow, 119991, Russia
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2
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Macionis V. Fetal head-down posture may explain the rapid brain evolution in humans and other primates: An interpretative review. Brain Res 2023; 1820:148558. [PMID: 37634686 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148558] [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: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Evolutionary cerebrovascular consequences of upside-down postural verticality of the anthropoid fetus have been largely overlooked in the literature. This working hypothesis-based report provides a literature interpretation from an aspect that the rapid evolution of the human brain has been promoted by fetal head-down position due to maternal upright and semi-upright posture. Habitual vertical torso posture is a feature not only of humans, but also of monkeys and non-human apes that spend considerable time in a sitting position. Consequently, the head-down position of the fetus may have caused physiological craniovascular hypertension that stimulated expansion of the intracranial vessels and acted as an epigenetic physiological stress, which enhanced neurogenesis and eventually, along with other selective pressures, led to the progressive growth of the anthropoid brain and its organization. This article collaterally opens a new insight into the conundrum of high cephalopelvic proportions (i.e., the tight fit between the pelvic birth canal and fetal head) in phylogenetically distant lineages of monkeys, lesser apes, and humans. Low cephalopelvic proportions in non-human great apes could be accounted for by their energetically efficient horizontal nest-sleeping and consequently by their larger body mass compared to monkeys and lesser apes that sleep upright. One can further hypothesize that brain size varies in anthropoids according to the degree of exposure of the fetus to postural verticality. The supporting evidence for this postulation includes a finding that in fossil hominins cerebral blood flow rate increased faster than brain volume. This testable hypothesis opens a perspective for research on fetal postural cerebral hemodynamics.
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Bonanni R, Cariati I, Marini M, Tarantino U, Tancredi V. Microgravity and Musculoskeletal Health: What Strategies Should Be Used for a Great Challenge? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1423. [PMID: 37511798 PMCID: PMC10381503 DOI: 10.3390/life13071423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Space colonization represents the most insidious challenge for mankind, as numerous obstacles affect the success of space missions. Specifically, the absence of gravitational forces leads to systemic physiological alterations, with particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal system. Indeed, astronauts exposed to spaceflight are known to report a significant impairment of bone microarchitecture and muscle mass, conditions clinically defined as osteoporosis and sarcopenia. In this context, space medicine assumes a crucial position, as the development of strategies to prevent and/or counteract weightlessness-induced alterations appears to be necessary. Furthermore, the opportunity to study the biological effects induced by weightlessness could provide valuable information regarding adaptations to spaceflight and suggest potential treatments that can preserve musculoskeletal health under microgravity conditions. Noteworthy, improving knowledge about the latest scientific findings in this field of research is crucial, as is thoroughly investigating the mechanisms underlying biological adaptations to microgravity and searching for innovative solutions to counter spaceflight-induced damage. Therefore, this narrative study review, performed using the MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases, aims to summarize the most recent evidence regarding the effects of real and simulated microgravity on the musculoskeletal system and to discuss the effectiveness of the main defence strategies used in both real and experimental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bonanni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Ida Cariati
- Department of Systems Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Marini
- Department of Systems Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Tarantino
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, "Policlinico Tor Vergata" Foundation, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Tancredi
- Department of Systems Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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4
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Miglietta S, Cristiano L, Espinola MSB, Masiello MG, Micara G, Battaglione E, Linari A, Palmerini MG, Familiari G, Aragona C, Bizzarri M, Macchiarelli G, Nottola SA. Effects of Simulated Microgravity In Vitro on Human Metaphase II Oocytes: An Electron Microscopy-Based Study. Cells 2023; 12:1346. [PMID: 37408181 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Gravity Force to which living beings are subjected on Earth rules the functionality of most biological processes in many tissues. It has been reported that a situation of Microgravity (such as that occurring in space) causes negative effects on living beings. Astronauts returning from space shuttle missions or from the International Space Station have been diagnosed with various health problems, such as bone demineralization, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular deconditioning, and vestibular and sensory imbalance, including impaired visual acuity, altered metabolic and nutritional status, and immune system dysregulation. Microgravity has profound effects also on reproductive functions. Female astronauts, in fact, suppress their cycles during space travels, and effects at the cellular level in the early embryo development and on female gamete maturation have also been observed. The opportunities to use space flights to study the effects of gravity variations are limited because of the high costs and lack of repeatability of the experiments. For these reasons, the use of microgravity simulators for studying, at the cellular level, the effects, such as those, obtained during/after a spatial trip, are developed to confirm that these models can be used in the study of body responses under conditions different from those found in a unitary Gravity environment (1 g). In view of this, this study aimed to investigate in vitro the effects of simulated microgravity on the ultrastructural features of human metaphase II oocytes using a Random Positioning Machine (RPM). We demonstrated for the first time, by Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis, that microgravity might compromise oocyte quality by affecting not only the localization of mitochondria and cortical granules due to a possible alteration of the cytoskeleton but also the function of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum since in RPM oocytes we observed a switch in the morphology of smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) and associated mitochondria from mitochondria-SER aggregates to mitochondria-vesicle complexes. We concluded that microgravity might negatively affect oocyte quality by interfering in vitro with the normal sequence of morphodynamic events essential for acquiring and maintaining a proper competence to fertilization in human oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selenia Miglietta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Cristiano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Salomé B Espinola
- Systems Biology Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Masiello
- Systems Biology Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulietta Micara
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Ezio Battaglione
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Linari
- Department of Maternal, Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Cesare Aragona
- Systems Biology Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Systems Biology Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefania A Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, 00165 Rome, Italy
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Cariati I, Bonanni R, Rinaldi AM, Marini M, Iundusi R, Gasbarra E, Tancredi V, Tarantino U. Recombinant irisin prevents cell death and mineralization defects induced by random positioning machine exposure in primary cultures of human osteoblasts: A promising strategy for the osteoporosis treatment. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1107933. [PMID: 37008023 PMCID: PMC10052411 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1107933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight exposure, like prolonged skeletal unloading, is known to result in significant bone loss, but the molecular mechanisms responsible are still partly unknown. This impairment, characterizing both conditions, suggests the possibility of identifying common signalling pathways and developing innovative treatment strategies to counteract the bone loss typical of astronauts and osteoporotic patients. In this context, primary cell cultures of human osteoblasts derived from healthy subjects and osteoporotic patients were exposed to random positioning machine (RPM) to reproduce the absence of gravity and to exacerbate the pathological condition, respectively. The duration of exposure to RPM was 3 or 6 days, with the aim of determining whether a single administration of recombinant irisin (r-irisin) could prevent cell death and mineralizing capacity loss. In detail, cellular responses were assessed both in terms of death/survival, by MTS assay, analysis of oxidative stress and caspase activity, as well as the expression of survival and cell death proteins, and in terms of mineralizing capacity, by investigating the pentraxin 3 (PTX3) expression. Our results suggest that the effects of a single dose of r-irisin are maintained for a limited time, as demonstrated by complete protection after 3 days of RPM exposure and only partial protection when RPM exposure was for a longer time. Therefore, the use of r-irisin could be a valid strategy to counteract the bone mass loss induced by weightlessness and osteoporosis. Further studies are needed to determine an optimal treatment strategy based on the use of r-irisin that is fully protective even over very long periods of exposure and/or to identify further approaches to be used in a complementary manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Cariati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bonanni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Bonanni,
| | - Anna Maria Rinaldi
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Marini
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Iundusi
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, “Policlinico Tor Vergata” Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Gasbarra
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, “Policlinico Tor Vergata” Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Tancredi
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Tarantino
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, “Policlinico Tor Vergata” Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Acharya A, Nemade H, Papadopoulos S, Hescheler J, Neumaier F, Schneider T, Rajendra Prasad K, Khan K, Hemmersbach R, Gusmao EG, Mizi A, Papantonis A, Sachinidis A. Microgravity-induced stress mechanisms in human stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. iScience 2022; 25:104577. [PMID: 35789849 PMCID: PMC9249673 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to outer space microgravity poses a risk for the development of various pathologies including cardiovascular disease. To study this, we derived cardiomyocytes (CMs) from human-induced pluripotent stem cells and exposed them to simulated microgravity (SMG). We combined different “omics” and chromosome conformation capture technologies with live-cell imaging of various transgenic lines to discover that SMG impacts on the contractile velocity and function of CMs via the induction of senescence processes. This is linked to SMG-induced changes of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and energy metabolism by mitochondria. Taken together, we uncover a microgravity-controlled axis causing contractile dysfunctions to CMs. Our findings can contribute to the design of preventive and therapeutic strategies against senescence-associated disease. Simulated microgravity (SMG) causes ROS production in human cardiomyocytes (CMs) SMG inhibits mitochondria function and energy metabolism and induces senescence of CMs SMG attenuates contractile velocity, beating frequency and Ca2+ influx in CMs SMG induces chromosomal changes and modifies the chromosomal architecture in CMs
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7
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Exposure to Random Positioning Machine Alters the Mineralization Process and PTX3 Expression in the SAOS-2 Cell Line. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12050610. [PMID: 35629278 PMCID: PMC9143356 DOI: 10.3390/life12050610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone loss is among the most frequent changes seen in astronauts during space missions. Although weightlessness is known to cause high bone resorption and a rapid decrease in bone minerals and calcium, the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. In our work, we investigated the influence of random positioning machine (RPM) exposure on the mineralization process in the SAOS-2 cell line, in osteogenic and non-osteogenic conditions, by examining changes in their mineralizing capacity and in the expression of PTX3, a positive regulator of bone mineralization. We analyzed cell viability by MTS assay and the mineralization process after staining with Toluidine Blue and Alizarin Red, while PTX3 expression was investigated by immunocytochemistry and western blotting analysis. Our results showed that RPM exposure increased cells’ viability and improved their mineralizing competence when not treated with osteogenic cocktail. In contrast, in osteogenic conditions, cells exposed to RPM showed a reduction in the presence of calcification-like structures, mineral deposits and PTX3 expression, suggesting that the effects of RPM exposure on mineralizing matrix deposition depend on the presence of osteogenic factors in the culture medium. Further studies will be needed to clarify the role of potential mineralization markers in the cellular response to the simulated biological effects of microgravity, paving the way for a new approach to treating osteoporosis in astronauts exposed to spaceflight.
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Effects of Simulated Microgravity on Wild Type and Marfan hiPSCs-Derived Embryoid Bodies. Cell Mol Bioeng 2021; 14:613-626. [PMID: 34900014 PMCID: PMC8630351 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-021-00680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mechanical unloading in microgravity is thought to induce tissue degeneration by various mechanisms, including the inhibition of regenerative stem cell differentiation. In this work, we investigate the effects of microgravity simulation on early lineage commitment of hiPSCs from healthy and Marfan Syndrome (MFS; OMIM #154700) donors, using the embryoid bodies model of tissue differentiation and evaluating their ultra-structural conformation. MFS model involves an anomalous organization of the extracellular matrix for a deficit of fibrillin-1, an essential protein of connective tissue. Methods In vitro models require the use of embryoid bodies derived from hiPSCs. A DRPM was used to simulate microgravity conditions. Results Our data suggest an increase of the stemness of those EBs maintained in SMG condition. EBs are still capable of external migration, but are less likely to distinguish, providing a measure of the remaining progenitor or stem cell populations in the earlier stage. The microgravity response appears to vary between WT and Marfan EBs, presumably as a result of a cell structural component deficiency due to fibrillin-1 protein lack. In fact, MFS EBs show a reduced adaptive capacity to the environment of microgravity that prevented them from reacting and making rapid adjustments, while healthy EBs show stem retention, without any structural changes due to microgravity conditions. Conclusion EBs formation specifically mimics stem cell differentiation into embryonic tissues, this process has also significant similarities with adult stem cell-based tissue regeneration. The use of SMG devices for the maintenance of stem cells on regenerative medicine applications is becoming increasingly more feasible. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-021-00680-1.
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Salvetti A, Degl'Innocenti A, Gambino G, van Loon JJ, Ippolito C, Ghelardoni S, Ghigo E, Leoncino L, Prato M, Rossi L, Ciofani G. Artificially altered gravity elicits cell homeostasis imbalance in planarian worms, and cerium oxide nanoparticles counteract this effect. J Biomed Mater Res A 2021; 109:2322-2333. [PMID: 33960131 PMCID: PMC8518838 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Gravity alterations elicit complex and mostly detrimental effects on biological systems. Among these, a prominent role is occupied by oxidative stress, with consequences for tissue homeostasis and development. Studies in altered gravity are relevant for both Earth and space biomedicine, but their implementation using whole organisms is often troublesome. Here we utilize planarians, simple worm model for stem cell and regeneration biology, to characterize the pathogenic mechanisms brought by artificial gravity alterations. In particular, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of molecular responses in intact and regenerating specimens, and demonstrate a protective action from the space-apt for nanotechnological antioxidant cerium oxide nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Salvetti
- Università di Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineBiology and Genetics unitPisaItaly
| | - Andrea Degl'Innocenti
- Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaCenter for Materials Interfaces, Smart Bio‐InterfacesPisaItaly
| | - Gaetana Gambino
- Università di Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineBiology and Genetics unitPisaItaly
| | - Jack J.W.A. van Loon
- Dutch Experiment Support Center (DESC), Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Oral PathologyAmsterdam UMC location VU University Medical Center & Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA)AmsterdamThe Netherlands
- TEC‐MMG LIS labEuropean Space Agency (ESA), European Space Research and Technology Center (ESTEC)NoordwijkThe Netherlands
| | - Chiara Ippolito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Biology and Genetics UnitUniversità di PisaPisaItaly
| | - Sandra Ghelardoni
- Department of Pathology, Biochemistry UnitUniversità di PisaPisaItaly
| | - Eric Ghigo
- Institut Hospitalo‐Universitaire Méditerranée InfectionMarseilleFrance
- Techno JouvenceMarseilleFrance
| | - Luca Leoncino
- Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaElectron Microscopy FacilityGenoaItaly
| | - Mirko Prato
- Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaMaterials Characterization FacilityGenoaItaly
| | - Leonardo Rossi
- Università di Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineBiology and Genetics unitPisaItaly
| | - Gianni Ciofani
- Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaCenter for Materials Interfaces, Smart Bio‐InterfacesPisaItaly
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Abstract
Gravity determines shape of body tissue and affects the functions of life, both in plants and animals. The cellular response to gravity is an active process of mechanotransduction. Although plants and animals share some common mechanisms of gravity sensing in spite of their distant phylogenetic origin, each species has its own mechanism to sense and respond to gravity. In this review, we discuss current understanding regarding the mechanisms of cellular gravity sensing in plants and animals. Understanding gravisensing also contributes to life on Earth, e.g., understanding osteoporosis and muscle atrophy. Furthermore, in the current age of Mars exploration, understanding cellular responses to gravity will form the foundation of living in space.
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Proshchina A, Gulimova V, Kharlamova A, Krivova Y, Besova N, Berdiev R, Saveliev S. Reproduction and the Early Development of Vertebrates in Space: Problems, Results, Opportunities. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:109. [PMID: 33572526 PMCID: PMC7911118 DOI: 10.3390/life11020109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans and animals adapt to space flight conditions. However, the adaptive changes of fully formed organisms differ radically from the responses of vertebrate embryos, foetuses, and larvae to space flight. Development is associated with active cell proliferation and the formation of organs and systems. The instability of these processes is well known. Over 20 years has passed since the last systematic experiments on vertebrate reproduction and development in space flight. At the same time, programs are being prepared for the exploration of Mars and the Moon, which justifies further investigations into space flight's impact on vertebrate development. This review focuses on various aspects of reproduction and early development of vertebrates in space flights. The results of various experiments on fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals are described. The experiments in which our team took part and ontogeny of the vertebrate nervous and special sensory systems are considered in more detail. Possible causes of morphological changes are also discussed. Research on evolutionarily and taxonomically different models can advance the understanding of reproduction in microgravity. Reptiles, in particular, geckos, due to their special features, can be a promising object of space developmental biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Proshchina
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Victoria Gulimova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Anastasia Kharlamova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Yuliya Krivova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Nadezhda Besova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Rustam Berdiev
- Research and Educational Center for Wild Animal Rehabilitation, Faculty of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1/12, 119899 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Sergey Saveliev
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
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Zhu L, Nie L, Xie S, Li M, Zhu C, Qiu X, Kuang J, Liu C, Lu C, Li W, Meng E, Zhang D, Zhu L. Attenuation of Antiviral Immune Response Caused by Perturbation of TRIM25-Mediated RIG-I Activation under Simulated Microgravity. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108600. [PMID: 33406425 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Microgravity is a major environmental factor of space flight that triggers dysregulation of the immune system and increases clinical risks for deep-space-exploration crews. However, systematic studies and molecular mechanisms of the adverse effects of microgravity on the immune system in animal models are limited. Here, we establish a ground-based zebrafish disease model of microgravity for the research of space immunology. RNA sequencing analysis demonstrates that the retinoic-acid-inducible gene (RIG)-I-like receptor (RLR) and the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways are significantly compromised by simulated microgravity (Sμg). TRIM25, an essential E3 for RLR signaling, is inhibited under Sμg, hampering the K63-linked ubiquitination of RIG-I and the following function-induction positive feedback loop of antiviral immune response. These mechanisms provide insights into better understanding of the effects and principles of microgravity on host antiviral immunity and present broad potential implications for developing strategies that can prevent and control viral diseases during space flight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lvyun Zhu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China.
| | - Li Nie
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, P.R. China
| | - Sisi Xie
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Chushu Zhu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xinyuan Qiu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Jingyu Kuang
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Chuanyang Liu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Chenyu Lu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Wenying Li
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Er Meng
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Dongyi Zhang
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Lingyun Zhu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China.
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13
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Oss-Ronen L, Redden RA, Lelkes PI. Enhanced Induction of Definitive Endoderm Differentiation of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells in Simulated Microgravity. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:1275-1284. [PMID: 32731794 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2020.0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Directed in vitro differentiation of pluripotent stem cells toward definitive endoderm (DE) offers great research and therapeutic potential since these cells can further differentiate into cells of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, as well as associated organs such as pancreas, liver, and thyroid. We hypothesized that culturing mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) under simulated microgravity (SMG) conditions in rotary bioreactors (BRs) will enhance the induction of directed DE differentiation. To test our hypothesis, we cultured the cells for 6 days in two-dimensional monolayer colony cultures or as embryoid bodies (EBs) in either static conditions or, dynamically, in the rotary BRs. We used flow cytometry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction to analyze the expression of marker proteins and genes, respectively, for pluripotency (Oct3/4) and mesendodermal (Brachyury T), endodermal (FoxA2, Sox17, CxCr4), and mesodermal (Vimentin, Meox1) lineages. Culture in the form of EBs in maintenance media in the presence of leukemia inhibitory factor, in static or SMG conditions, induced expression of some of the differentiation markers, suggesting heterogeneity of the cells. This is in line with previous studies showing that differentiation is initiated as cells are aggregated into EBs even without supplementing differentiation factors to the media. Culturing EBs in static conditions in differentiation media (DM) in the presence of activin A reduced Oct3/4 expression and significantly increased Brachyury T and CxCr4 expression, but downregulated FoxA2 and Sox17. However, culturing in SMG BRs in DM upregulated Brachyury T and all of the DE markers and reduced Oct3/4 expression, indicating the advantage of dynamic cultures in BRs to specifically enhance directed DE differentiation. Given the potential discrepancies between the SMG conditions on earth and actual microgravity conditions, as observed in other studies, future experiments in space flight are required to validate the effects of reduced gravity on mESC differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Oss-Ronen
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert A Redden
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Peter I Lelkes
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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14
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The Application of Mechanical Stimulations in Tendon Tissue Engineering. Stem Cells Int 2020; 2020:8824783. [PMID: 33029149 PMCID: PMC7532391 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8824783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendon injury is the most common disease in the musculoskeletal system. The current treatment methods have many limitations, such as poor therapeutic effects, functional loss of donor site, and immune rejection. Tendon tissue engineering provides a new treatment strategy for tendon repair and regeneration. In this review, we made a retrospective analysis of applying mechanical stimulation in tendon tissue engineering, and its potential as a direction of development for future clinical treatment strategies. For this purpose, the following topics are discussed; (1) the context of tendon tissue engineering and mechanical stimulation; (2) the applications of various mechanical stimulations in tendon tissue engineering, as well as their inherent mechanisms; (3) the application of magnetic force and the synergy of mechanical and biochemical stimulation. With this, we aim at clarifying some of the main questions that currently exist in the field of tendon tissue engineering and consequently gain new knowledge that may help in the development of future clinical application of tissue engineering in tendon injury.
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15
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Luna A, Meisel J, Hsu K, Russi S, Fernandez D. Protein structural changes on a CubeSat under rocket acceleration profile. NPJ Microgravity 2020; 6:12. [PMID: 32352028 PMCID: PMC7181844 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-020-0102-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Catalyzing life-sustaining reactions, proteins are composed by 20 different amino acids that fold into a compact yet flexible three-dimensional architecture, which dictates what their function(s) might be. Determining the spatial arrangement of the atoms, the protein's 3D structure, enables key advances in fundamental and applied research. Protein crystallization is a powerful technique to achieve this. Unlike Earth's crystallization experiments, biomolecular crystallization in space in the absence of gravitational force is actively sought to improve crystal growth techniques. However, the effects of changing gravitational vectors on a protein solution reaching supersaturation remain largely unknown. Here, we have developed a low-cost crystallization cell within a CubeSat payload module to exploit the unique experimental conditions set aboard a sounding rocket. We designed a biaxial gimbal to house the crystallization experiments and take measurements on the protein solution in-flight with a spectrophotometry system. After flight, we used X-ray diffraction analysis to determine that flown protein has a structural rearrangement marked by loss of the protein's water and sodium in a manner that differs from crystals grown on the ground. We finally show that our gimbal payload module design is a portable experimental setup to take laboratory research investigations into exploratory space flights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Autumn Luna
- Mechanical Engineering Department, School of Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Jacob Meisel
- Electrical Engineering Department, School of Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Kaitlin Hsu
- Biology Department, School of Humanities and Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Silvia Russi
- Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), SLAC National Accelerator Laboratories, Menlo Park, CA 94025 USA
| | - Daniel Fernandez
- Stanford ChEM-H Macromolecular Structure Knowledge Center (MSKC), Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
- Stanford ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
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16
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Lei X, Cao Y, Ma B, Zhang Y, Ning L, Qian J, Zhang L, Qu Y, Zhang T, Li D, Chen Q, Shi J, Zhang X, Ma C, Zhang Y, Duan E. Development of mouse preimplantation embryos in space. Natl Sci Rev 2020; 7:1437-1446. [PMID: 34691539 PMCID: PMC8288510 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of life beyond planet Earth is a long-standing quest of the human race, but whether normal mammalian embryonic development can occur in space is still unclear. Here, we show unequivocally that preimplantation mouse embryos can develop in space, but the rate of blastocyst formation and blastocyst quality are compromised. Additionally, the cells in the embryo contain severe DNA damage, while the genome of the blastocysts developed in space is globally hypomethylated with a unique set of differentially methylated regions. The developmental defects, DNA damage and epigenetic abnormalities can be largely mimicked by the treatment with ground-based low-dose radiation. However, the exposure to simulated microgravity alone does not cause major disruptions of embryonic development, indicating that radiation is the main cause for the developmental defects. This work advances the understanding of embryonic development in space and reveals long-term extreme low-dose radiation as a hazardous factor for mammalian reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yujing Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yunfang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lina Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jingjing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yongcun Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 100049, China
| | - Dehong Li
- Division of Ionizing Radiation, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Qi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Junchao Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xudong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chiyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Enkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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17
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Liu C, Zhong G, Zhou Y, Yang Y, Tan Y, Li Y, Gao X, Sun W, Li J, Jin X, Cao D, Yuan X, Liu Z, Liang S, Li Y, Du R, Zhao Y, Xue J, Zhao D, Song J, Ling S, Li Y. Alteration of calcium signalling in cardiomyocyte induced by simulated microgravity and hypergravity. Cell Prolif 2020; 53:e12783. [PMID: 32101357 PMCID: PMC7106961 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Cardiac Ca2+ signalling plays an essential role in regulating excitation‐contraction coupling and cardiac remodelling. However, the response of cardiomyocytes to simulated microgravity and hypergravity and the effects on Ca2+ signalling remain unknown. Here, we elucidate the mechanisms underlying the proliferation and remodelling of HL‐1 cardiomyocytes subjected to rotation‐simulated microgravity and 4G hypergravity. Materials and Methods The cardiomyocyte cell line HL‐1 was used in this study. A clinostat and centrifuge were used to study the effects of microgravity and hypergravity, respectively, on cells. Calcium signalling was detected with laser scanning confocal microscopy. Protein and mRNA levels were detected by Western blotting and real‐time PCR, respectively. Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) staining was used to analyse cell size. Results Our data showed that spontaneous calcium oscillations and cytosolic calcium concentration are both increased in HL‐1 cells after simulated microgravity and 4G hypergravity. Increased cytosolic calcium leads to activation of calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II/histone deacetylase 4 (CaMKII/HDAC4) signalling and upregulation of the foetal genes ANP and BNP, indicating cardiac remodelling. WGA staining indicated that cell size was decreased following rotation‐simulated microgravity and increased following 4G hypergravity. Moreover, HL‐1 cell proliferation was increased significantly under hypergravity but not rotation‐simulated microgravity. Conclusions Our study demonstrates for the first time that Ca2+/CaMKII/HDAC4 signalling plays a pivotal role in myocardial remodelling under rotation‐simulated microgravity and hypergravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caizhi Liu
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guohui Zhong
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Yingjun Tan
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yuheng Li
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xingcheng Gao
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Weijia Sun
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jianwei Li
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Dengchao Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Life Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinxin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Life Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zizhong Liu
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Liang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Youyou Li
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ruikai Du
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yinlong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jianqi Xue
- Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Dingsheng Zhao
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jinping Song
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shukuan Ling
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yingxian Li
- State Key Lab of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
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18
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Kiss JZ, Wolverton C, Wyatt SE, Hasenstein KH, van Loon JJ. Comparison of Microgravity Analogs to Spaceflight in Studies of Plant Growth and Development. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:1577. [PMID: 31867033 PMCID: PMC6908503 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.01577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Life on Earth has evolved under the influence of gravity. This force has played an important role in shaping development and morphology from the molecular level to the whole organism. Although aquatic life experiences reduced gravity effects, land plants have evolved under a 1-g environment. Understanding gravitational effects requires changing the magnitude of this force. One method of eliminating gravity''s influence is to enter into a free-fall orbit around the planet, thereby achieving a balance between centripetal force of gravity and the centrifugal force of the moving object. This balance is often mistakenly referred to as microgravity, but is best described as weightlessness. In addition to actually compensating gravity, instruments such as clinostats, random-positioning machines (RPM), and magnetic levitation devices have been used to eliminate effects of constant gravity on plant growth and development. However, these platforms do not reduce gravity but constantly change its direction. Despite these fundamental differences, there are few studies that have investigated the comparability between these platforms and weightlessness. Here, we provide a review of the strengths and weaknesses of these analogs for the study of plant growth and development compared to spaceflight experiments. We also consider reduced or partial gravity effects via spaceflight and analog methods. While these analogs are useful, the fidelity of the results relative to spaceflight depends on biological parameters and environmental conditions that cannot be simulated in ground-based studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Z. Kiss
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina—Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, United States
| | - Chris Wolverton
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, OH, United States
| | - Sarah E. Wyatt
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, Department of Environmental & Plant Biology, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
| | - Karl H. Hasenstein
- Biology Department, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, LA, United States
| | - Jack J.W.A. van Loon
- DESC (Dutch Experiment Support Center), Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Oral Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), VU-University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- European Space Agency (ESA) Technology Center (ESTEC), Life & Physical Science, Instrumentation and Life Support Laboratory, TEC-MMG, Noordwijk, Netherlands
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19
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Blaber EA. Special Issue: Stem Cells, Radiation, and Microgravity. Stem Cells Dev 2019; 27:1227-1229. [PMID: 30212289 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.29003.bla] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Blaber
- 1 Universities Space Research Association , Mountain View, California.,2 Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center , Moffett Field, California
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