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Mermel L. Human Evolution, Microgravity, and Challenges Colonizing Mars. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2024; 95:720-721. [PMID: 39169488 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.6475.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Human colonization of Mars has captured the imagination of many. However, the challenges posed are immense. In microgravity, changes in human physiology, immune dysregulation, alterations of our microbiome, and enhanced virulence of various microbes are some of the barriers that stand in the way of a successful endeavor. Countermeasures can be brought to bear, but it remains unclear if success of such a mission in the foreseeable future is realistic or fanciful.Mermel L. Human evolution, microgravity, and challenges colonizing Mars. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(9):720-721.
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Nickerson CA, McLean RJC, Barrila J, Yang J, Thornhill SG, Banken LL, Porterfield DM, Poste G, Pellis NR, Ott CM. Microbiology of human spaceflight: microbial responses to mechanical forces that impact health and habitat sustainability. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024:e0014423. [PMID: 39158275 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00144-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYUnderstanding the dynamic adaptive plasticity of microorganisms has been advanced by studying their responses to extreme environments. Spaceflight research platforms provide a unique opportunity to study microbial characteristics in new extreme adaptational modes, including sustained exposure to reduced forces of gravity and associated low fluid shear force conditions. Under these conditions, unexpected microbial responses occur, including alterations in virulence, antibiotic and stress resistance, biofilm formation, metabolism, motility, and gene expression, which are not observed using conventional experimental approaches. Here, we review biological and physical mechanisms that regulate microbial responses to spaceflight and spaceflight analog environments from both the microbe and host-microbe perspective that are relevant to human health and habitat sustainability. We highlight instrumentation and technology used in spaceflight microbiology experiments, their limitations, and advances necessary to enable next-generation research. As spaceflight experiments are relatively rare, we discuss ground-based analogs that mimic aspects of microbial responses to reduced gravity in spaceflight, including those that reduce mechanical forces of fluid flow over cell surfaces which also simulate conditions encountered by microorganisms during their terrestrial lifecycles. As spaceflight mission durations increase with traditional astronauts and commercial space programs send civilian crews with underlying health conditions, microorganisms will continue to play increasingly critical roles in health and habitat sustainability, thus defining a new dimension of occupational health. The ability of microorganisms to adapt, survive, and evolve in the spaceflight environment is important for future human space endeavors and provides opportunities for innovative biological and technological advances to benefit life on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Nickerson
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Robert J C McLean
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer Barrila
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Jiseon Yang
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | | | - Laura L Banken
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- Biodesign Center for Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - D Marshall Porterfield
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - George Poste
- Complex Adaptive Systems Initiative, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | | | - C Mark Ott
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Bakr MM, Caswell GM, Hussein H, Shamel M, Al-Ankily MM. Considerations for oral and dental tissues in holistic care during long-haul space flights. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1406631. [PMID: 39055690 PMCID: PMC11269229 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1406631] [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: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The health of astronauts during and after the return from long-haul space missions is paramount. There is plethora of research in the literature about the medical side of astronauts' health, however, the dental and oral health of the space crew seem to be overlooked with limited information in the literature about the effects of the space environment and microgravity on the oral and dental tissues. In this article, we shed some light on the latest available research related to space dentistry and provide some hypotheses that could guide the directions of future research and help maintain the oral health of space crews. We also promote for the importance of regenerative medicine and dentistry as well highlight the opportunities available in the expanding field of bioprinting/biomanufacturing through utilizing the effects of microgravity on stem cells culture techniques. Finally, we provide recommendations for adopting a multidisciplinary approach for oral healthcare during long-haul space flights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M. Bakr
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Habiba Hussein
- Faculty of Dentistry, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Shamel
- Faculty of Dentistry, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
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Buchheim JI, Feuerecker M, Balsamo M, Vukich M, Van Walleghem M, Tabury K, Quintens R, Vermeesen R, Baselet B, Baatout S, Rattenbacher B, Antunes I, Ngo-Anh TJ, Crucian B, Choukér A. Monitoring functional immune responses with a cytokine release assay: ISS flight hardware design and experimental protocol for whole blood cultures executed under microgravity conditions. Front Physiol 2024; 14:1322852. [PMID: 38288353 PMCID: PMC10823428 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1322852] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Long-term space missions trigger a prolonged neuroendocrine stress response leading to immune system dysregulation evidenced by susceptibility to infections, viral reactivation, and skin irritations. However, due to existing technical constraints, real-time functional immune assessments are not currently available to crew inflight. The in vitro cytokine release assay (CRA) has been effectively employed to study the stimulated cytokine response of immune cells in whole blood albeit limited to pre- and post-flight sessions. A novel two-valve reaction tube (RT) has been developed to enable the execution of the CRA on the International Space Station (ISS). Methods: In a comprehensive test campaign, we assessed the suitability of three materials (silicone, C-Flex, and PVC) for the RT design in terms of biochemical compatibility, chemical stability, and final data quality analysis. Furthermore, we thoroughly examined additional quality criteria such as safety, handling, and the frozen storage of antigens within the RTs. The validation of the proposed crew procedure was conducted during a parabolic flight campaign. Results: The selected material and procedure proved to be both feasible and secure yielding consistent and dependable data outcomes. This new hardware allows for the stimulation of blood samples on board the ISS, with subsequent analysis still conducted on the ground. Discussion: The resultant data promises to offer a more accurate understanding of the stress-induced neuroendocrine modulation of immunity during space travel providing valuable insights for the scientific community. Furthermore, the versatile nature of the RT suggests its potential utility as a testing platform for various other assays or sample types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith-Irina Buchheim
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Feuerecker
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Marco Vukich
- Kayser Italia S.r.l, Livorno, Italy
- European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), European Space Agency (ESA), Noordwijk, Netherlands
| | - Merel Van Walleghem
- European Astronaut Center (EAC), European Space Agency (ESA), Cologne, Germany
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Radiobiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Application Institute, Mol, Belgium
| | - Kevin Tabury
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Radiobiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Application Institute, Mol, Belgium
| | - Roel Quintens
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Radiobiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Application Institute, Mol, Belgium
| | - Randy Vermeesen
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Radiobiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Application Institute, Mol, Belgium
| | - Bjorn Baselet
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Radiobiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Application Institute, Mol, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Radiobiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Application Institute, Mol, Belgium
| | - Bernd Rattenbacher
- Biotechnology Space Support Center (Biotesc), Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), Luzerne, Switzerland
| | - Inês Antunes
- European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), European Space Agency (ESA), Noordwijk, Netherlands
| | - Thu Jennifer Ngo-Anh
- European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), European Space Agency (ESA), Noordwijk, Netherlands
| | - Brian Crucian
- Immunology Lab, NASA Johnsons Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Alexander Choukér
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Zhang Y, Li Z, Peng Y, Guo Z, Wang H, Wei T, Shakir Y, Jiang G, Deng Y. Microbiome in a ground-based analog cabin of China Space Station during a 50-day human occupation. ISME COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:ycae013. [PMID: 38495633 PMCID: PMC10942772 DOI: 10.1093/ismeco/ycae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Dead-corner areas in space station that untouched by the clean-up campaign often experience microorganisms outbreaks, but the microbiome of these areas has never been studied. In this study, the microbiome in a ground-based analog ``Tianhe'' core module of China Space Station was first investigated during a 50-day three-crew occupation. Dead-corner areas were receiving attention by adopting a new sampling method. Results indicate that the astronauts occupation did not affect the dominant bacteria community, but affected a small proportion. Due to the frequent activity of astronauts in the work and sleep areas, the biomarkers in these two areas are common human skin surface and gut microorganisms, respectively. For areas that astronaut rarely visits, the biomarkers in which are common environmental microbial groups. Fluorescence counting showed that 70.12-84.78% of bacteria were alive, with a quantity of 104-105 cells/100 cm2. With the occupation time extension, the number of microorganisms increased. At the same sampling time, there was no significant bioburden difference in various locations. The cultivable bioburden ranged from 101 to 104 colony forming unit (CFU)/100 cm2, which are the following eight genera Penicillium, Microsphaeropsis, Stachybotrys, Humicola, Cladosporium, Bacillus, Planomicrobium, and Acinetobacter. Chryseomicrobium genus may be a key focus for future microbial prevention and control work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zhidong Li
- Office of International Business and Technology Application, Beijing Institute of Spacecraft System Engineering, Beijing 100094, China
| | - Yuan Peng
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zimu Guo
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hong Wang
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Tao Wei
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yasmeen Shakir
- Department of Biochemistry, Hazara University, Mansehra 21120, Pakistan
| | - Guohua Jiang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yulin Deng
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
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Cheung HC, De Louche C, Komorowski M. Artificial Intelligence Applications in Space Medicine. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2023; 94:610-622. [PMID: 37501303 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.6178.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:During future interplanetary space missions, a number of health conditions may arise, owing to the hostile environment of space and the myriad of stressors experienced by the crew. When managing these conditions, crews will be required to make accurate, timely clinical decisions at a high level of autonomy, as telecommunication delays and increasing distances restrict real-time support from the ground. On Earth, artificial intelligence (AI) has proven successful in healthcare, augmenting expert clinical decision-making or enhancing medical knowledge where it is lacking. Similarly, deploying AI tools in the context of a space mission could improve crew self-reliance and healthcare delivery.METHODS: We conducted a narrative review to discuss existing AI applications that could improve the prevention, recognition, evaluation, and management of the most mission-critical conditions, including psychological and mental health, acute radiation sickness, surgical emergencies, spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, infections, and cardiovascular deconditioning.RESULTS: Some examples of the applications we identified include AI chatbots designed to prevent and mitigate psychological and mental health conditions, automated medical imaging analysis, and closed-loop systems for hemodynamic optimization. We also discuss at length gaps in current technologies, as well as the key challenges and limitations of developing and deploying AI for space medicine to inform future research and innovation. Indeed, shifts in patient cohorts, space-induced physiological changes, limited size and breadth of space biomedical datasets, and changes in disease characteristics may render the models invalid when transferred from ground settings into space.Cheung HC, De Louche C, Komorowski M. Artificial intelligence applications in space medicine. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(8):610-622.
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Lombini M, Schreiber L, Albertini R, Alessi EM, Attinà P, Bianco A, Cascone E, Colucci ME, Cortecchia F, De Caprio V, Diolaiti E, Fiorini M, Lessio L, Macchi A, Malaguti G, Mongelluzzo G, Pareschi G, Pelizzo MG, Pasquarella C. Solar ultraviolet light collector for germicidal irradiation on the moon. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8326. [PMID: 37221252 PMCID: PMC10204019 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35438-4] [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: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolonged human-crewed missions on the Moon are foreseen as a gateway for Mars and asteroid colonisation in the next decades. Health risks related to long-time permanence in space have been partially investigated. Hazards due to airborne biological contaminants represent a relevant problem in space missions. A possible way to perform pathogens' inactivation is by employing the shortest wavelength range of Solar ultraviolet radiation, the so-called germicidal range. On Earth, it is totally absorbed by the atmosphere and does not reach the surface. In space, such Ultraviolet solar component is present and effective germicidal irradiation for airborne pathogens' inactivation can be achieved inside habitable outposts through a combination of highly reflective internal coating and optimised geometry of the air ducts. The Solar Ultraviolet Light Collector for Germicidal Irradiation on the Moon is a project whose aim is to collect Ultraviolet solar radiation and use it as a source to disinfect the re-circulating air of the human outposts. The most favourable positions where to place these collectors are over the peaks at the Moon's poles, which have the peculiarity of being exposed to solar radiation most of the time. On August 2022, NASA communicated to have identified 13 candidate landing regions near the lunar South Pole for Artemis missions. Another advantage of the Moon is its low inclination to the ecliptic, which maintains the Sun's apparent altitude inside a reduced angular range. For this reason, Ultraviolet solar radiation can be collected through a simplified Sun's tracking collector or even a static collector and used to disinfect the recycled air. Fluid-dynamic and optical simulations have been performed to support the proposed idea. The expected inactivation rates for some airborne pathogens, either common or found on the International Space Station, are reported and compared with the proposed device efficiency. The results show that it is possible to use Ultraviolet solar radiation directly for air disinfection inside the lunar outposts and deliver a healthy living environment to the astronauts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Lombini
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio di Astrofisica e Scienza dello Spazio di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Laura Schreiber
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio di Astrofisica e Scienza dello Spazio di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Albertini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisa Maria Alessi
- Istituto di Matematica Applicata e Tecnologie Informatiche "E. Magenes" - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Milan, Italy
| | - Primo Attinà
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera, Merate, LC, Italy
| | - Andrea Bianco
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera, Merate, LC, Italy
| | - Enrico Cascone
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Fausto Cortecchia
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio di Astrofisica e Scienza dello Spazio di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Caprio
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Emiliano Diolaiti
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio di Astrofisica e Scienza dello Spazio di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mauro Fiorini
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Istituto di Astrofisica Spaziale e Fisica Cosmica di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Lessio
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Alberto Macchi
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera, Merate, LC, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Malaguti
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio di Astrofisica e Scienza dello Spazio di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mongelluzzo
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Capodimonte, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pareschi
- Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica - Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera, Merate, LC, Italy
| | - Maria G Pelizzo
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Padova, Padua, Italy
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Nguyen CN, Urquieta E. Contemporary review of dermatologic conditions in space flight and future implications for long-duration exploration missions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2023; 36:147-156. [PMID: 36682824 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Future planned exploration missions to outer space will almost surely require the longest periods of continuous space exposure by the human body yet. As the most external organ, the skin seems the most vulnerable to injury. Therefore, discussion of the dermatological implications of such extended-duration missions is critical. OBJECTIVES In order to help future missions understand the risks of spaceflight on the human skin, this review aims to consolidate data from the current literature pertaining to the space environment and its physiologic effects on skin, describe all reported dermatologic manifestations in spaceflight, and extrapolate this information to longer-duration mission. METHODS AND MATERIALS The authors searched PubMed and Google Scholar using keywords and Mesh terms. The publications that were found to be relevant to the objectives were included and described. RESULTS The space environment causes changes in the skin at the cellular level by thinning the epidermis, altering wound healing, and dysregulating the immune system. Clinically, dermatological conditions represented the most common medical issues occurring in spaceflight. We predict that as exploration missions increase in duration, astronauts will experience further physiological changes and an increased rate and severity of adverse events. CONCLUSION Maximizing astronaut safety requires a continued knowledge of the human body's response to space, as well as consideration and prediction of future events. Dermatologic effects of space missions comprise the majority of health-related issues arising on missions to outer space, and these issues are likely to become more prominent with increasing time spent in space. Improvements in hygiene may mitigate some of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emmanuel Urquieta
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston TX, United States; Translational Research Institute for Space Health, Houston, TX, United States
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Wang J, Wang T, Zeng X, Wang S, Yu Z, Wei Y, Cai M, Chu XY, Chen YZ, Zhao Y. Database of space life investigations and bioinformatics of microbiology in extreme environments. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1017773. [PMID: 36406421 PMCID: PMC9668873 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1017773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological experiments performed in space crafts like space stations, space shuttles, and recoverable satellites has enabled extensive spaceflight life investigations (SLIs). In particular, SLIs have revealed distinguished space effects on microbial growth, survival, metabolite production, biofilm formation, virulence development and drug resistant mutations. These provide unique perspectives to ground-based microbiology and new opportunities for industrial pharmaceutical and metabolite productions. SLIs are with specialized experimental setups, analysis methods and research outcomes, which can be accessed by established databases National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Life Science Data Archive, Erasmus Experiment Archive, and NASA GeneLab. The increasing research across diverse fields may be better facilitated by databases of convenient search facilities and categorized presentation of comprehensive contents. We therefore developed the Space Life Investigation Database (SpaceLID) http://bidd.group/spacelid/, which collected SLIs from published academic papers. Currently, this database provides detailed menu search facilities and categorized contents about the studied phenomena, materials, experimental procedures, analysis methods, and research outcomes of 448 SLIs of 90 species (microbial, plant, animal, human), 81 foods and 106 pharmaceuticals, including 232 SLIs not covered by the established databases. The potential applications of SpaceLID are illustrated by the examples of published experimental design and bioinformatic analysis of spaceflight microbial phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyong Wang
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xian Zeng
- Department of Biological Medicines & Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immunotherapeutics, Fudan University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Zijie Yu
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yiqi Wei
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Mengna Cai
- Institute of Civil Design, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Yi Chu
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yu Zong Chen
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yufen Zhao
- Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center of Astrochemistry and Space Life Sciences, Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- The Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Siems K, Runzheimer K, Rehm A, Schwengers O, Heidler von Heilborn D, Kaser L, Arndt F, Neidhöfer C, Mengel JP, Parcina M, Lipski A, Hain T, Moeller R. Phenotypic and genomic assessment of the potential threat of human spaceflight-relevant Staphylococcus capitis isolates under stress conditions. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1007143. [PMID: 36406458 PMCID: PMC9669719 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1007143] [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: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have reported that spaceflight specific conditions such as microgravity lead to changes in bacterial physiology and resistance behavior including increased expression of virulence factors, enhanced biofilm formation and decreased susceptibility to antibiotics. To assess if spaceflight induced physiological changes can manifest in human-associated bacteria, we compared three spaceflight relevant Staphylococcus capitis isolates (DSM 111179, ISS; DSM 31028, clean room; DSM 113836; artificial gravity bedrest study) with the type strain (DSM 20326T). We tested the three strains regarding growth, colony morphology, metabolism, fatty acid and polar lipid pattern, biofilm formation, susceptibility to antibiotics and survival in different stress conditions such as treatment with hydrogen peroxide, exposure to desiccation, and irradiation with X-rays and UV-C. Moreover, we sequenced, assembled, and analyzed the genomes of all four strains. Potential genetic determinants for phenotypic differences were investigated by comparative genomics. We found that all four strains show similar metabolic patterns and the same susceptibility to antibiotics. All four strains were considered resistant to fosfomycin. Physiological differences were mainly observed compared to the type strain and minor differences among the other three strains. The ISS isolate and the bedrest study isolate exhibit a strong delayed yellow pigmentation, which is absent in the other two strains. Pigments were extracted and analyzed by UV/Vis spectroscopy showing characteristic carotenoid spectra. The ISS isolate showed the highest growth rate as well as weighted average melting temperature (WAMT) of fatty acids (41.8°C) of all strains. The clean room isolate showed strongest biofilm formation and a high tolerance to desiccation. In general, all strains survived desiccation better in absence of oxygen. There were no differences among the strains regarding radiation tolerance. Phenotypic and genomic differences among the strains observed in this study are not inevitably indicating an increased virulence of the spaceflight isolate. However, the increased growth rate, higher WAMT and colony pigmentation of the spaceflight isolate are relevant phenotypes that require further research within the human spaceflight context. We conclude that combining genetic analysis with classical microbiological methods allows the detailed assessment of the potential threat of bacteria in highly regulated and extreme environments such as spaceflight environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Siems
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Katharina Runzheimer
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Anna Rehm
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Oliver Schwengers
- Department of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - David Heidler von Heilborn
- Institute of Nutritional and Food Sciences, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Liv Kaser
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Franca Arndt
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claudio Neidhöfer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan Philipp Mengel
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Marijo Parcina
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - André Lipski
- Institute of Nutritional and Food Sciences, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Torsten Hain
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Partner Site Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
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11
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Li H, Xue YW, Quan Y, Zhang HY. Reducing Virus Infection Risk in Space Environments through Nutrient Supplementation. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13091536. [PMID: 36140704 PMCID: PMC9498414 DOI: 10.3390/genes13091536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Space exploration has brought many challenges to human physiology. In order to evaluate and reduce possible pathological reactions triggered by space environments, we conducted bioinformatics analyses on the methylation data of the Mars 520 mission and human transcriptome data in the experiment simulating gravity changes. The results suggest that gene expression levels and DNA methylation levels were changed under the conditions of isolation and gravity changes, and multiple viral infection-related pathways were found in the enrichment analysis results of changed genes including Epstein Barr virus (EBV) infection, Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection and Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KHSV) infection. In this study, we found that Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and vitamin D are helpful in reducing viral infection risk. In addition, the causal associations between nutrients and viral infections were calculated using Two sample Mendelian Randomization (2SMR) method, the results indicated that vitamin D can reduce EBV infection and HBV infection risk. In summary, our study suggests that space environments increase the risk of human viral infection, which may be reduced by supplementing EGCG and vitamin D. These results can be used to formulate medical plans for astronauts, which have practical application value for future space exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yuan Quan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-18062425336
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12
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Adaptation to simulated microgravity in Streptococcus mutans. NPJ Microgravity 2022; 8:17. [PMID: 35654802 PMCID: PMC9163064 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-022-00205-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term space missions have shown an increased incidence of oral disease in astronauts’ and as a result, are one of the top conditions predicted to impact future missions. Here we set out to evaluate the adaptive response of Streptococcus mutans (etiological agent of dental caries) to simulated microgravity. This organism has been well studied on earth and treatment strategies are more predictable. Despite this, we are unsure how the bacterium will respond to the environmental stressors in space. We used experimental evolution for 100-days in high aspect ratio vessels followed by whole genome resequencing to evaluate this adaptive response. Our data shows that planktonic S. mutans did evolve variants in three genes (pknB, SMU_399 and SMU_1307c) that can be uniquely attributed to simulated microgravity populations. In addition, collection of data at multiple time points showed mutations in three additional genes (SMU_399, ptsH and rex) that were detected earlier in simulated microgravity populations than in the normal gravity controls, many of which are consistent with other studies. Comparison of virulence-related phenotypes between biological replicates from simulated microgravity and control orientation cultures generally showed few changes in antibiotic susceptibility, while acid tolerance and adhesion varied significantly between biological replicates and decreased as compared to the ancestral populations. Most importantly, our data shows the importance of a parallel normal gravity control, sequencing at multiple time points and the use of biological replicates for appropriate analysis of adaptation in simulated microgravity.
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13
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Gilbert R, Tanenbaum N, Bhattacharya S. Asparagine biosynthesis as a mechanism of increased host lethality induced by Serratia marcescens in simulated microgravity environments. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09379. [PMID: 35592661 PMCID: PMC9111996 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09379] [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: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
While studies have shown an increase in pathogenicity in several microbes during spaceflight and after exposure to simulated microgravity, the mechanisms underlying these changes in phenotype are not understood across different pathogens, particularly in opportunistic pathogens. This study evaluates the mechanism for increased virulence of the opportunistic gram-negative bacterium, Serratia marcescens, in simulated microgravity. Low-shear modeled microgravity (LSMMG) is used in ground-based studies to simulate the effects of microgravity as experienced in spaceflight. Our previous findings showed that there was a significant increase in mortality rates of the Drosophila melanogaster host when infected with either spaceflight or LSMMG treated S. marcescens. Here, we report that LSMMG increases asparagine uptake and synthesis in S. marcescens and that the increased host lethality induced by LSMMG bacteria grown in rich media can be recapitulated in minimal media by adding only aspartate and glutamine, the substrates of asparagine biosynthesis. Interestingly, increased bacterial growth rate alone is not sufficient to contribute to maximal host lethality, since the addition of aspartate to minimal media caused an LSMMG-specific increase in bacterial growth rate that is comparable to that induced by the combination of aspartate and glutamine, but this increase in growth does not cause an equivalent rate of host mortality. However, the addition of both aspartate and glutamine cause both an increase in host mortality and an overexpression of asparagine pathway genes in a LSMMG-dependent manner. We also report that L-asparaginase-mediated breakdown of asparagine is an effective countermeasure for the increased host mortality caused by LSMMG-treated bacteria. This investigation underscores the importance of the asparagine utilization pathway by helping uncover molecular mechanisms that underlie increased mortality rates of a model host infected with microgravity-treated S. marcescens and provides a potential mitigation strategy.
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Tesei D, Jewczynko A, Lynch AM, Urbaniak C. Understanding the Complexities and Changes of the Astronaut Microbiome for Successful Long-Duration Space Missions. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12040495. [PMID: 35454986 PMCID: PMC9031868 DOI: 10.3390/life12040495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During space missions, astronauts are faced with a variety of challenges that are unique to spaceflight and that have been known to cause physiological changes in humans over a period of time. Several of these changes occur at the microbiome level, a complex ensemble of microbial communities residing in various anatomic sites of the human body, with a pivotal role in regulating the health and behavior of the host. The microbiome is essential for day-to-day physiological activities, and alterations in microbiome composition and function have been linked to various human diseases. For these reasons, understanding the impact of spaceflight and space conditions on the microbiome of astronauts is important to assess significant health risks that can emerge during long-term missions and to develop countermeasures. Here, we review various conditions that are caused by long-term space exploration and discuss the role of the microbiome in promoting or ameliorating these conditions, as well as space-related factors that impact microbiome composition. The topics explored pertain to microgravity, radiation, immunity, bone health, cognitive function, gender differences and pharmacomicrobiomics. Connections are made between the trifecta of spaceflight, the host and the microbiome, and the significance of these interactions for successful long-term space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Tesei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Anna Jewczynko
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
| | - Anne M. Lynch
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Graduate Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Camilla Urbaniak
- ZIN Technologies Inc., Middleburg Heights, OH 44130, USA
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Correspondence:
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15
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Effects of Long-Term Enclosed Environment on Human Health Based on the Analysis of Salivary Microbiota and Cytokines. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0025422. [PMID: 35254118 PMCID: PMC9045383 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00254-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term exposure to space environments may influence the human microbiome, the human immune system, and the intricate balance between the two, causing impaired immunity and increased disease susceptibility. It was previously believed that the main potential factors of long-term spaceflight on human health were microgravity and radiation.
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Yang J, Fu Y, Liu H. Microbiomes of air dust collected during the ground-based closed bioregenerative life support experiment "Lunar Palace 365". ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOME 2022; 17:4. [PMID: 35081988 PMCID: PMC8793263 DOI: 10.1186/s40793-022-00399-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the dynamics of airborne microbial communities and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in space life support systems is important because potential pathogens and antibiotic resistance pose a health risk to crew that can lead to mission failure. There have been few reports on the distribution patterns of microbiomes and ARGs in space life support systems. In particular, there have been no detailed investigations of microbiomes and/or antibiotic resistance based on molecular methods in long-term confined bioregenerative life support systems (BLSSs). Therefore, in the present study, we collected air dust samples from two crew shifts, different areas, and different time points in the "Lunar Palace 365" experiment. We evaluated microbial diversity, species composition, functional potential, and antibiotic resistance by combining cultivation-independent analyses (amplicon, shot-gun sequencing, and qPCR). RESULTS We found that the bacterial community diversity in the Lunar Palace1 (LP1) system was higher than that in a controlled environment but lower than that in an open environment. Personnel exchange led to significant differences in bacterial community diversity, and source tracking analysis revealed that most bacteria in the air derived from the cabin crew and plants, but no differences in microbial function or antibiotic resistance were observed. Thus, human presence had the strongest effect on the succession of microbial diversity in the BLSSs. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight that microbial diversity in BLSSs is heavily influenced by changes in crew and is unique from other open and controlled environments. Our findings can be used to help develop safe, enclosed BLSS that meet the requirements of human survival and habitation in outer space. In addition, our results can further enhance our understanding of the indoor air microbial community and effectively maintain a safe working and living environment, including plant growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianlou Yang
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, No. 37 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yuming Fu
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, No. 37 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Virtual Reality Technology and Systems, School of Computer Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- International Joint Research Center of Aerospace Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Hong Liu
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, No. 37 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Virtual Reality Technology and Systems, School of Computer Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- International Joint Research Center of Aerospace Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
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17
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Sihver L, Mortazavi SMJ. Biological Protection in Deep Space Missions. J Biomed Phys Eng 2021; 11:663-674. [PMID: 34904063 PMCID: PMC8649166 DOI: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.1193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
During deep space missions, astronauts are exposed to highly ionizing radiation, incl. neutrons, protons and heavy ions from galactic cosmic rays (GCR), solar wind (SW) and solar energetic particles
(SEP). This increase the risks for cancerogenisis, damages in central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular diseases, etc. Large SEP events can even cause acute radiation syndrome (ARS).
Long term manned deep space missions will therefor require unique radiation protection strategies. Since it has been shown that physical shielding alone is not sufficient, this paper
propose pre-flight screening of the aspirants for evaluation of their level of adaptive responses. Methods for boosting their immune system, should also be further investigated,
and the possibility of using radiation effect modulators are discussed. In this paper, especially, the use of vitamin C as a promising non-toxic, cost-effective, easily available
radiation mitigator (which can be used hours after irradiation), is described. Although it has previously been shown that vitamin C can decrease radiation-induced chromosomal damage in rodents,
it must be further investigated before any conclusions about its radiation mitigating properties in humans can be concluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lembit Sihver
- PhD, Department of Radiation Physics, Atominstitut, Technische Universität Wien, Stadionallee 2, 1020 Vienna, Austria
- PhD, Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, 412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
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18
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Wang S, Zhang N, Di J, Zhao W, Shi G, Xie R, Hu B, Yang H. Analysis of the effects of magnetic levitation to simulate microgravity environment on the Arp2/3 complex pathway in macrophage. J Biol Phys 2021; 47:323-335. [PMID: 34533653 PMCID: PMC8452804 DOI: 10.1007/s10867-021-09581-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
With dwindling natural resources on earth, current and future generations will need to explore space to new planets that will require travel under no or varying gravity conditions. Hence, long-term space missions and anticipated impacts on human biology such as changes in immune function are of growing research interest. Here, we reported new findings on mechanisms of immune response to microgravity with a focus on macrophage as a cellular model. We employed a superconducting magnet to generate a simulated microgravity environment and evaluated the effects of simulated microgravity on RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cell line in three time frames: 8, 24, and 48 h. As study endpoints, we measured cell viability, phagocytosis, and used next-generation sequencing to explore its changing mechanism. Macrophage cell viability and phagocytosis both showed a marked decrease under microgravity. The differentially expressed genes (DEG) were identified in two ways: (1) gravity-dependent DEG, compared μg samples and 1 g samples at each time point; (2) time-dependent DEG, compared time-point samples within the same gravitational field. Through transcriptome analysis and confirmed by molecular biological verification, our findings firstly suggest that microgravity might affect macrophage phagocytosis by targeting Arp2/3 complex involved cytoskeleton synthesis and causing macrophage immune dysfunction. Our findings contribute to an emerging body of scholarship on biological effects of space travel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sufang Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
- Center of Special Environmental Biomechanics & Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Nu Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
- Center of Special Environmental Biomechanics & Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Jianglei Di
- Key Laboratory of Optical Information Technology, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Wenjuan Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
- Center of Special Environmental Biomechanics & Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Guolin Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
- Center of Special Environmental Biomechanics & Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Ruiheng Xie
- Department of Computer and Information Science, College of Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Bohan Hu
- College of Innovation and Experiment, Yangling Demonstration Area, Northwest A&F University, 22 Xinong Road, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100 , China
| | - Hui Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China.
- Center of Special Environmental Biomechanics & Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 127 West Youyi Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China.
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19
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Braddock M. From Target Identification to Drug Development in Space: Using the Microgravity Assist. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2021; 17:45-56. [PMID: 30648510 DOI: 10.2174/1570163816666190112150014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The unique nature of microgravity encountered in space provides an opportunity for drug discovery and development that cannot be replicated on Earth. From the production of superior protein crystals to the identification and validation of new drug targets to microarray analyses of transcripts attenuated by microgravity, there are numerous examples which demonstrate the benefit of exploiting the space environment. Moreover, studies conducted on Space Shuttle missions, the International Space Station and other craft have had a direct benefit for drug development programmes such as those directed against reducing bone and muscle loss or increasing bone formation. This review will highlight advances made in both drug discovery and development and offer some future insight into how drug discovery and associated technologies may be further advanced using the microgravity assist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Braddock
- Sherwood Observatory, Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society, Coxmoor Road, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 5LF, United Kingdom
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20
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Sun P, Yang J, Wang B, Ma H, Zhang Y, Guo J, Chen X, Zhao J, Sun H, Yang J, Yang H, Cui Y. The effects of combined environmental factors on the intestinal flora of mice based on ground simulation experiments. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11373. [PMID: 34059794 PMCID: PMC8166921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91077-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The composition and function of intestinal microbial communities are important for human health. However, these intestinal floras are sensitive to changes in the environment. Adverse changes to intestinal flora can affect the health of astronauts, resulting in difficulties in implementing space missions. We randomly divided mice into three groups and placed each group in either a normal environment, simulated microgravity environment or a combined effects environment, which included simulated microgravity, low pressure and noise. Fecal samples of the mice were collected for follow-up analysis based on metagenomics technology. With the influence of different space environmental factors, the species composition at the phylum and genus levels were significantly affected by the combined effects environment, especially the abundance of the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Furthermore, screening was conducted to identify biomarkers that could be regarded as environmental markers. And there have also been some noticeable changes in the function of intestinal floras. Moreover, the abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) was also found to be changed under different environmental conditions, such as bacitracin and vancomycin. The combined effects environment could significantly affect the species composition, function, and the expression of ARGs of intestinal flora of mice which may provide a theoretical basis for space medical supervision and healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiming Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
- Department of General Surgery, The 306th Hospital of Chinese PLA-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Bo Wang
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Huan Ma
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yin Zhang
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jinhu Guo
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Jianwei Zhao
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Hongwei Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jianwu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Heming Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Yan Cui
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100101, China.
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21
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Simões MF, Antunes A. Microbial Pathogenicity in Space. Pathogens 2021; 10:450. [PMID: 33918768 PMCID: PMC8069885 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
After a less dynamic period, space exploration is now booming. There has been a sharp increase in the number of current missions and also of those being planned for the near future. Microorganisms will be an inevitable component of these missions, mostly because they hitchhike, either attached to space technology, like spaceships or spacesuits, to organic matter and even to us (human microbiome), or to other life forms we carry on our missions. Basically, we never travel alone. Therefore, we need to have a clear understanding of how dangerous our "travel buddies" can be; given that, during space missions, our access to medical assistance and medical drugs will be very limited. Do we explore space together with pathogenic microorganisms? Do our hitchhikers adapt to the space conditions, as well as we do? Do they become pathogenic during that adaptation process? The current review intends to better clarify these questions in order to facilitate future activities in space. More technological advances are needed to guarantee the success of all missions and assure the reduction of any possible health and environmental risks for the astronauts and for the locations being explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Filipa Simões
- State Key Laboratory of Lunar and Planetary Sciences (SKLPlanets), Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST), Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China;
- China National Space Administration (CNSA), Macau Center for Space Exploration and Science, Macau, China
| | - André Antunes
- State Key Laboratory of Lunar and Planetary Sciences (SKLPlanets), Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST), Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China;
- China National Space Administration (CNSA), Macau Center for Space Exploration and Science, Macau, China
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22
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Evaluating the effect of spaceflight on the host-pathogen interaction between human intestinal epithelial cells and Salmonella Typhimurium. NPJ Microgravity 2021; 7:9. [PMID: 33750813 PMCID: PMC7943786 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-021-00136-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight uniquely alters the physiology of both human cells and microbial pathogens, stimulating cellular and molecular changes directly relevant to infectious disease. However, the influence of this environment on host-pathogen interactions remains poorly understood. Here we report our results from the STL-IMMUNE study flown aboard Space Shuttle mission STS-131, which investigated multi-omic responses (transcriptomic, proteomic) of human intestinal epithelial cells to infection with Salmonella Typhimurium when both host and pathogen were simultaneously exposed to spaceflight. To our knowledge, this was the first in-flight infection and dual RNA-seq analysis using human cells.
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23
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Chen Y, Xu C, Zhong C, Lyu Z, Liu J, Chen Z, Dun H, Xin B, Xie Q. Temporal Characteristics of the Oropharyngeal and Nasal Microbiota Structure in Crewmembers Stayed 180 Days in the Controlled Ecological Life Support System. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:617696. [PMID: 33613468 PMCID: PMC7886687 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.617696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Confined experiments are carried out to simulate the closed environment of space capsule on the ground. The Chinese Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) is designed including a closed-loop system supporting 4 healthy volunteers surviving for 180 days, and we aim to reveal the temporal characteristics of the oropharyngeal and nasal microbiota structure in crewmembers stayed 180 days in the CELSS, so as to accumulate the information about microbiota balance associated with respiratory health for estimating health risk in future spaceflight. We investigated the distribution of microorganisms and their dynamic characteristics in the nasal cavity and oropharynx of occupants with prolonged confinement. Based on the 16S rDNA v3–v4 regions using Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology, the oropharyngeal and nasal microbiota were monitored at eight time points during confinement. There were significant differences between oropharyngeal and nasal microbiota, and there were also individual differences among the same site of different volunteers. Analysis on the structure of the microbiota showed that, in the phylum taxon, the nasal bacteria mainly belonged to Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, etc. In addition to the above phyla, in oropharyngeal bacteria Fusobacterial accounted for a relatively high proportion. In the genus taxon, the nasal and oropharyngeal bacteria were independent. Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus were dominant in nasal cavity, and Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, and Neisseria were dominant in oropharynx. With the extension of the confinement time, the abundance of Staphylococcus in the nasal cavity and Neisseria in the oropharynx increased, and the index Chao fluctuated greatly from 30 to 90 days after the volunteers entered the CELSS. Conclusion: The structure and diversity of the nasal and oropharyngeal microbiota changed in the CELSS, and there was the phenomenon of migration between occupants, suggesting that the microbiota structure and health of the respiratory tract could be affected by living in a closed environment for a long time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwu Chen
- Space Science and Technology Institute (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, China
| | - Chong Xu
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chongfa Zhong
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zhitang Lyu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Diversity Research and Application of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Baoding, China
| | - Junlian Liu
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zhanghuang Chen
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Huanhuan Dun
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Bingmu Xin
- Space Science and Technology Institute (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, China.,China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Xie
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
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Liang D, Ma J, Wei B. Oral absorption and drug interaction kinetics of moxifloxacin in an animal model of weightlessness. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2605. [PMID: 33510326 PMCID: PMC7843972 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82044-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the effect of simulated weightlessness on the pharmacokinetics of orally administered moxifloxacin and the antacid Maalox or the antidiarrheal Pepto-Bismol using a tail-suspended (TS) rat model of microgravity. Fasted control and TS, jugular-vein-cannulated, male Sprague-Dawley rats received either a single 5 mg/kg intravenous dose or a single 10 mg/kg oral dose of moxifloxacin alone or with a 0.625 mL/kg oral dose of Maalox or a 1.43 mL/kg oral dose of Pepto-Bismol. Plasma concentrations of moxifloxacin were measured by HPLC. Pharmacokinetic data were analyzed using WinNonlin. Simulated weightlessness had no effect on moxifloxacin disposition after intravenous administration but significantly decreased the extent of moxifloxacin oral absorption. The coadministration of moxifloxacin with Maalox to either control or TS rats caused significant reductions in the rate and extent of moxifloxacin absorption. In contrast, the coadministration of moxifloxacin with Pepto-Bismol to TS rats had no significant effect on either the rate or the extent of moxifloxacin absorption. These interactions showed dose staggering when oral administrations of Pepto-Bismol and moxifloxacin were separated by 60 min in control rats but not in TS rats. Dose staggering was more apparent after the coadministration of Maalox and moxifloxacin in TS rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston, TX, 77004, USA.
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston, TX, 77004, USA
| | - Bo Wei
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, 77030, TX, USA
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Inglesby DC, Antonucci MU, Spampinato MV, Collins HR, Meyer TA, Schlosser RJ, Shimada K, Roberts DR. Spaceflight-Associated Changes in the Opacification of the Paranasal Sinuses and Mastoid Air Cells in Astronauts. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2021; 146:571-577. [PMID: 32215610 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2020.0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Importance Head congestion is one of the most common somatic symptoms experienced by astronauts during spaceflight; however, changes in the opacification of the paranasal sinuses or mastoid air cells in astronauts have not been adequately studied. Objectives To quantify preflight to postflight changes in the opacification of the paranasal sinuses and mastoid air cells in Space Shuttle astronauts and International Space Station (ISS) astronauts and to assess whether there are differences between the 2 groups of astronauts. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study examined preflight and postflight head magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of 35 astronauts who had participated in either a short-duration (≤30 days) Space Shuttle mission or a long-duration (>30 days) ISS mission and had undergone both preflight and postflight MRI. Images were obtained before and after spaceflight. Images were evaluated by 2 neuroradiologists blinded to which mission each astronaut had flown and to which images were preflight or postflight images. Exposure Spaceflight on the Space Shuttle or the ISS. Main Outcomes and Measures Measured outcomes included preflight to postflight changes in Lund-Mackay scores for the paranasal sinuses and in scores grading mastoid effusions. Results Most astronauts in both the Space Shuttle group (n = 17; 15 men; mean [SD] age at launch, 47.7 [3.1] years) and the ISS group (n = 18; 14 men; mean [SD] age at launch, 48.6 [4.7] years) exhibited either no change or a reduction in paranasal sinus opacification as seen on postflight MRI scans (Space Shuttle group: 6 [35.3%] had no sinus opacification before or after spaceflight, 5 [29.4%] had less sinus opacification after spaceflight, 3 [17.6%] had the same amount of sinus opacification before and after spaceflight, and 3 [17.6%] had increased paranasal sinus opacification after spaceflight; ISS group: 8 [44.4%] had no sinus opacification before or after spaceflight, 4 [22.2%] had less sinus opacification after spaceflight, 1 (5.6%) had the same amount of sinus opacification before and after spaceflight, and 5 [27.8%] had scores consistent with increased paranasal sinus opacification after spaceflight). Long-duration spaceflight (ISS group) was associated with an increased risk of mastoid effusion relative to short-duration spaceflight (relative risk, 4.72; 95% CI, 1.2-18.5). Images were obtained a mean (SD) 287.5 (208.6) days (range, 18-627 days) prior to and 6.8 (5.8) days (range, 1-20 days) after spaceflight. Astronauts had undergone either a mean (SD) of 13.6 (1.6) days of spaceflight on the Space Shuttle (17 astronauts) or 164.8 (18.9) days on the ISS (18 astronauts). Conclusions and Relevance This study found that exposure to spaceflight conditions on the ISS is associated with an increased likelihood for the formation of mastoid effusions. There was no association between exposure to spaceflight conditions and changes in paranasal sinus opacification. The limitations of this study include lack of information concerning medical history and mission-specific operational experience for individual astronauts. Further studies are indicated to determine the cause and composition of the mastoid effusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dani C Inglesby
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Michael U Antonucci
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | | | - Heather R Collins
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Ted A Meyer
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Rodney J Schlosser
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Kazuhito Shimada
- Tsukuba Space Center, Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Donna R Roberts
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
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Mahnert A, Verseux C, Schwendner P, Koskinen K, Kumpitsch C, Blohs M, Wink L, Brunner D, Goessler T, Billi D, Moissl-Eichinger C. Microbiome dynamics during the HI-SEAS IV mission, and implications for future crewed missions beyond Earth. MICROBIOME 2021; 9:27. [PMID: 33487169 PMCID: PMC7831191 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-020-00959-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human health is closely interconnected with its microbiome. Resilient microbiomes in, on, and around the human body will be key for safe and successful long-term space travel. However, longitudinal dynamics of microbiomes inside confined built environments are still poorly understood. Herein, we used the Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation IV (HI-SEAS IV) mission, a 1 year-long isolation study, to investigate microbial transfer between crew and habitat, in order to understand adverse developments which may occur in a future outpost on the Moon or Mars. RESULTS Longitudinal 16S rRNA gene profiles, as well as quantitative observations, revealed significant differences in microbial diversity, abundance, and composition between samples of the built environment and its crew. The microbiome composition and diversity associated with abiotic surfaces was found to be rather stable, whereas the microbial skin profiles of individual crew members were highly dynamic, resulting in an increased microbiome diversity at the end of the isolation period. The skin microbiome dynamics were especially pronounced by a regular transfer of the indicator species Methanobrevibacter between crew members within the first 200 days. Quantitative information was used to track the propagation of antimicrobial resistance in the habitat. Together with functional and phenotypic predictions, quantitative and qualitative data supported the observation of a delayed longitudinal microbial homogenization between crew and habitat surfaces which was mainly caused by a malfunctioning sanitary facility. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights main routes of microbial transfer, interaction of the crew, and origins of microbial dynamics in an isolated environment. We identify key targets of microbial monitoring, and emphasize the need for defined baselines of microbiome diversity and abundance on surfaces and crew skin. Targeted manipulation to counteract adverse developments of the microbiome could be a highly important strategy to ensure safety during future space endeavors. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Mahnert
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Cyprien Verseux
- Laboratory of Applied Space Microbiology, Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM), University of Bremen, Am Fallturm 2, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Petra Schwendner
- University of Florida, Space Life Sciences Lab, 505 Odyssey Way, Exploration Park, N. Merritt Island, FL 32953 USA
| | - Kaisa Koskinen
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christina Kumpitsch
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Marcus Blohs
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Lisa Wink
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Daniela Brunner
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Theodora Goessler
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Daniela Billi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica s.n.c, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Christine Moissl-Eichinger
- Interactive Microbiome Research, Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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Bryan NC, Lebreton F, Gilmore M, Ruvkun G, Zuber MT, Carr CE. Genomic and Functional Characterization of Enterococcus faecalis Isolates Recovered From the International Space Station and Their Potential for Pathogenicity. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:515319. [PMID: 33505359 PMCID: PMC7829349 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.515319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a multidrug resistant, opportunistic human pathogen and a leading cause of hospital acquired infections. Recently, isolates have been recovered from the air and surfaces onboard the International Space Station (ISS). Pangenomic and functional analyses were carried out to assess their potential impact on astronaut health. Genomes of each ISS isolate, and both clinical and commensal reference strains, were evaluated for their core and unique gene content, acquired antibiotic resistance genes, phage, plasmid content, and virulence traits. In order to determine their potential survival when outside of the human host, isolates were also challenged with three weeks of desiccation at 30% relative humidity. Finally, pathogenicity of the ISS strains was evaluated in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. At the culmination of this study, there were no defining signatures that separated known pathogenic strains from the more commensal phenotypes using the currently available resources. As a result, the current reliance on database information alone must be shifted to experimentally evaluated genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of clinically relevant microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle C. Bryan
- Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Francois Lebreton
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, United States
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Michael Gilmore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Gary Ruvkun
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria T. Zuber
- Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Christopher E. Carr
- Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Current Progression: Application of High-Throughput Sequencing Technique in Space Microbiology. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4094191. [PMID: 32685480 PMCID: PMC7327617 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4094191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During a spaceflight, astronauts need to live in a spacecraft on orbit for a long time, and the relationship between humans and microorganisms in the closed environment of space is not the same as on the ground. The dynamic study of microorganisms in confined space shows that with the extension of the isolation time, harmful bacteria gradually accumulate. Monitoring and controlling microbial pollution in a confined environment system are very important for crew health and the sustainable operation of a space life support system. Culture-based assays have been used traditionally to assess the microbial loads in a spacecraft, and uncultured-based techniques are already under way according to the NASA global exploration roadmap. High-throughput sequencing technology has been used generally to study the communities of the environment and human on the ground and shows its broad prospects applied onboard. We here review the recent application of high-throughput sequencing on space microbiology and analyze its feasibility and potential as an on-orbit detection technology.
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Landry KS, Morey JM, Bharat B, Haney NM, Panesar SS. Biofilms-Impacts on Human Health and Its Relevance to Space Travel. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8070998. [PMID: 32635371 PMCID: PMC7409192 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8070998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As the world looks towards the stars, the impacts of endogenous and exogenous microorganisms on human health during long-duration space flight are subjects of increased interest within the space community. The presence and continued growth of bacterial biofilms about spacecraft has been documented for decades; however, the impact on crew health is in its infancy. The impacts of biofilms are well known in the medical, agricultural, commercial, and industrial spaces. It less known that biofilms are undermining many facets of space travel and that their effects need to be understood and addressed for future space missions. Biofilms can damage space crew health and spoil limited food supply. Yet, at the same time, they can benefit plant systems for food growth, nutrient development, and other biological systems that are being explored for use in space travel. Various biofilm removal techniques have been studied to mitigate the hazards posed by biofilm persistence during space travel. Because the presence of biofilms can advance or hinder humanity’s space exploration efforts, an understanding of their impacts over the duration of space flights is of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle S Landry
- Liberty Biosecurity, Expeditionary and Special Programs Division, Worcester, MA 01605, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jose M Morey
- Liberty Biosecurity, Expeditionary and Special Programs Division, Worcester, MA 01605, USA;
| | - Bharat Bharat
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, FL 33620, USA;
| | - Nora M Haney
- Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA;
| | - Sandip S Panesar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
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30
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Liu Z, Luo G, Du R, Sun W, Li J, Lan H, Chen P, Yuan X, Cao D, Li Y, Liu C, Liang S, Jin X, Yang R, Bi Y, Han Y, Cao P, Zhao W, Ling S, Li Y. Effects of spaceflight on the composition and function of the human gut microbiota. Gut Microbes 2020; 11:807-819. [PMID: 31924114 PMCID: PMC7524348 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2019.1710091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Interaction between humans and the gut microbiota is important for human physiology. Here, the gut microbiota was analyzed via metagenomic sequencing, and the fluctuations in the gut microbiota under the conditions of spaceflight were characterized. The composition and function of the gut microbiota were substantially affected by spaceflight; however, individual specificity was uncompromised. We further confirmed the species fluctuations and functional genes from both missions. Resistance and virulence genes in the gut microbiota were affected by spaceflight, but the species attributions remained stable. Spaceflight markedly affected the composition and function of the human gut microbiota, implying that the human gut microbiota is sensitive to spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Gui Luo
- Department of Rheumatology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruikai Du
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Weijia Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jianwei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyun Lan
- Key Lab of Space Nutrition and Food Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Pu Chen
- Key Lab of Space Nutrition and Food Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xinxin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Dengchao Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yuheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Caizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ruifu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Yujing Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Yanping Han
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Cao
- Key Lab of Space Nutrition and Food Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Key Lab of Space Nutrition and Food Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shukuan Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China,CONTACT Shukuan Ling Key Lab of Space Nutrition and Food Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yingxian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China,Yingxian Li
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Exploration of space to achieve scientific breakthroughs. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 43:107572. [PMID: 32540473 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Living organisms adapt to changing environments using their amazing flexibility to remodel themselves by a process called evolution. Environmental stress causes selective pressure and is associated with genetic and phenotypic shifts for better modifications, maintenance, and functioning of organismal systems. The natural evolution process can be used in complement to rational strain engineering for the development of desired traits or phenotypes as well as for the production of novel biomaterials through the imposition of one or more selective pressures. Space provides a unique environment of stressors (e.g., weightlessness and high radiation) that organisms have never experienced on Earth. Cells in the outer space reorganize and develop or activate a range of molecular responses that lead to changes in cellular properties. Exposure of cells to the outer space will lead to the development of novel variants more efficiently than on Earth. For instance, natural crop varieties can be generated with higher nutrition value, yield, and improved features, such as resistance against high and low temperatures, salt stress, and microbial and pest attacks. The review summarizes the literature on the parameters of outer space that affect the growth and behavior of cells and organisms as well as complex colloidal systems. We illustrate an understanding of gravity-related basic biological mechanisms and enlighten the possibility to explore the outer space environment for application-oriented aspects. This will stimulate biological research in the pursuit of innovative approaches for the future of agriculture and health on Earth.
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Bevelacqua JJ, Welsh J, Mortazavi SMJ. On the immunological limitations of hibernation and synthetic torpor as a supporting technique for astronauts’ radioprotection in deep space missions. World J Immunol 2019; 9:1-4. [DOI: 10.5411/wji.v9.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Although human hibernation has been introduced as an effective technique in space exploration, there are concerns regarding the intrinsic risks of the approach (i.e., synthetic torpor) and other factors involved in this procedure. Besides concerns about the brain changes and the state of consciousness during hibernation, an "Achilles heel" of the hibernation is the negative impact of torpor on factors such as the number of circulating leukocytes, complement levels, response to lipopolysaccharides, phagocytotic capacity, cytokine production, lymphocyte proliferation, and antibody production. Moreover, increased virulence of bacteria in deep space can significantly increase the risk of infection. The increased infection risk during long-term space missions with the combined effects of radiation and microgravity affect the astronauts’ immune system. With these additional immune system stressors, torpor-induced extra-immunosuppression can be potentially life threatening for astronauts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James Welsh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Loyola Stritch School of Medicine, Hines VA Hospital Chicago, Chicago, IL 60153, United States
| | - Seyed Mohammad Javad Mortazavi
- Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134845794, Iran
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, United States
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Checinska Sielaff A, Urbaniak C, Mohan GBM, Stepanov VG, Tran Q, Wood JM, Minich J, McDonald D, Mayer T, Knight R, Karouia F, Fox GE, Venkateswaran K. Characterization of the total and viable bacterial and fungal communities associated with the International Space Station surfaces. MICROBIOME 2019; 7:50. [PMID: 30955503 PMCID: PMC6452512 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-019-0666-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The International Space Station (ISS) is a closed system inhabited by microorganisms originating from life support systems, cargo, and crew that are exposed to unique selective pressures such as microgravity. To date, mandatory microbial monitoring and observational studies of spacecraft and space stations have been conducted by traditional culture methods, although it is known that many microbes cannot be cultured with standard techniques. To fully appreciate the true number and diversity of microbes that survive in the ISS, molecular and culture-based methods were used to assess microbial communities on ISS surfaces. Samples were taken at eight pre-defined locations during three flight missions spanning 14 months and analyzed upon return to Earth. RESULTS The cultivable bacterial and fungal population ranged from 104 to 109 CFU/m2 depending on location and consisted of various bacterial (Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria) and fungal (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) phyla. Amplicon sequencing detected more bacterial phyla when compared to the culture-based analyses, but both methods identified similar numbers of fungal phyla. Changes in bacterial and fungal load (by culture and qPCR) were observed over time but not across locations. Bacterial community composition changed over time, but not across locations, while fungal community remained the same between samplings and locations. There were no significant differences in community composition and richness after propidium monoazide sample treatment, suggesting that the analyzed DNA was extracted from intact/viable organisms. Moreover, approximately 46% of intact/viable bacteria and 40% of intact/viable fungi could be cultured. CONCLUSIONS The results reveal a diverse population of bacteria and fungi on ISS environmental surfaces that changed over time but remained similar between locations. The dominant organisms are associated with the human microbiome and may include opportunistic pathogens. This study provides the first comprehensive catalog of both total and intact/viable bacteria and fungi found on surfaces in closed space systems and can be used to help develop safety measures that meet NASA requirements for deep space human habitation. The results of this study can have significant impact on our understanding of other confined built environments on the Earth such as clean rooms used in the pharmaceutical and medical industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Checinska Sielaff
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group,, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Washington State University Extension - Youth and Families Program Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Camilla Urbaniak
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group,, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Ganesh Babu Malli Mohan
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group,, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Victor G Stepanov
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Quyen Tran
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jason M Wood
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group,, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Jeremiah Minich
- Marine Biology Research Division, Scripps Institute of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Daniel McDonald
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Teresa Mayer
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group,, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Rob Knight
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Fathi Karouia
- NASA Ames Research Center, Space Bioscience Division, Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, USA
- Research Center, Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - George E Fox
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kasthuri Venkateswaran
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Biotechnology and Planetary Protection Group,, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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34
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Buchheim JI, Matzel S, Rykova M, Vassilieva G, Ponomarev S, Nichiporuk I, Hörl M, Moser D, Biere K, Feuerecker M, Schelling G, Thieme D, Kaufmann I, Thiel M, Choukèr A. Stress Related Shift Toward Inflammaging in Cosmonauts After Long-Duration Space Flight. Front Physiol 2019; 10:85. [PMID: 30873038 PMCID: PMC6401618 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Space flight exerts a specific conglomerate of stressors on humans that can modulate the immune system. The mechanism remains to be elucidated and the consequences for cosmonauts in the long term are unclear. Most of the current research stems from short-term spaceflights as well as pre- and post-flight analyses due to operational limitations. Immune function of 12 cosmonauts participating in a long-duration (>140 days) spaceflight mission was monitored pre-, post-, and on two time-points in-flight. While the classical markers for stress such as cortisol in saliva where not significantly altered, blood concentrations of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) were found to be highly increased in-flight indicating a biological stress response. Moreover, subjects showed a significant rise in white blood cell counts. Neutrophils, monocytes and B cells increased by 50% whereas NK cells dropped by nearly 60% shortly after landing. Analysis of blood smears showed that lymphocyte percentages, though unchanged pre- and post-flight were elevated in-flight. Functional tests on the ground revealed stable cellular glutathione levels, unaltered baseline and stimulated ROS release in neutrophils but an increased shedding of L-selectin post-flight. In vitro stimulation of whole blood samples with fungal antigen showed a highly amplified TNF and IL-1β response. Furthermore, a significant reduction in CD4+CD25+CD27low regulatory T cells was observed post-flight but returned to normal levels after one month. Concomitantly, high in-flight levels of regulatory cytokines TGF-β, IL-10 and IL-1ra dropped rapidly after return to Earth. Finally, we observed a shift in the CD8+ T cell repertoire toward CD8+ memory cells that lasted even one month after return to Earth. Conclusion: Long-duration spaceflight triggered a sustained stress dependent release of endocannabinoids combined with an aberrant immune activation mimicking features of people at risk for inflammation related diseases. These effects persisted in part 30 days after return to Earth. The currently available repertoire of in-flight testing as well as the post-flight observation periods need to be expanded to tackle the underlying mechanism for and consequences of these immune changes in order to develop corresponding mitigation strategies based on a personalized approach for future interplanetary space explorations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith-Irina Buchheim
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Sandra Matzel
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Marina Rykova
- Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina Vassilieva
- Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Ponomarev
- Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Nichiporuk
- Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marion Hörl
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominique Moser
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Biere
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Feuerecker
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Gustav Schelling
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Detlef Thieme
- Institute of Doping Analysis and Sports Biochemistry, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ines Kaufmann
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital Munich-Neuperlach, Munich, Germany
| | - Manfred Thiel
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexander Choukèr
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the University of Munich, LMU, Munich, Germany
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Evaluation of Acquired Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia coli Exposed to Long-Term Low-Shear Modeled Microgravity and Background Antibiotic Exposure. mBio 2019; 10:mBio.02637-18. [PMID: 30647159 PMCID: PMC6336426 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02637-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress factors experienced during space include microgravity, sleep deprivation, radiation, isolation, and microbial contamination, all of which can promote immune suppression (1, 2). Under these conditions, the risk of infection from opportunistic pathogens increases significantly, particularly during long-term missions (3). If infection occurs, it is important that the infectious agent should not be antibiotic resistant. Minimizing the occurrence of antibiotic resistance is, therefore, highly desirable. To facilitate this, it is important to better understand the long-term response of bacteria to the microgravity environment. This study demonstrated that the use of antibiotics as a preventive measure could be counterproductive and would likely result in persistent resistance to that antibiotic. In addition, unintended resistance to other antimicrobials might also occur as well as permanent genome changes that might have other unanticipated and undesirable consequences. The long-term response of microbial communities to the microgravity environment of space is not yet fully understood. Of special interest is the possibility that members of these communities may acquire antibiotic resistance. In this study, Escherichia coli cells were grown under low-shear modeled microgravity (LSMMG) conditions for over 1,000 generations (1000G) using chloramphenicol treatment between cycles to prevent contamination. The results were compared with data from an earlier control study done under identical conditions using steam sterilization between cycles rather than chloramphenicol. The sensitivity of the final 1000G-adapted strain to a variety of antibiotics was determined using Vitek analysis. In addition to resistance to chloramphenicol, the adapted strain acquired resistance to cefalotin, cefuroxime, cefuroxime axetil, cefoxitin, and tetracycline. In fact, the resistance to chloramphenicol and cefalotin persisted for over 110 generations despite the removal of both LSMMG conditions and trace antibiotic exposure. Genome sequencing of the adapted strain revealed 22 major changes, including 3 transposon-mediated rearrangements (TMRs). Two TMRs disrupted coding genes (involved in bacterial adhesion), while the third resulted in the deletion of an entire segment (14,314 bp) of the genome, which includes 14 genes involved with motility and chemotaxis. These results are in stark contrast with data from our earlier control study in which cells grown under the identical conditions without antibiotic exposure never acquired antibiotic resistance. Overall, LSMMG does not appear to alter the antibiotic stress resistance seen in microbial ecosystems not exposed to microgravity.
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Blaustein RA, McFarland AG, Ben Maamar S, Lopez A, Castro-Wallace S, Hartmann EM. Pangenomic Approach To Understanding Microbial Adaptations within a Model Built Environment, the International Space Station, Relative to Human Hosts and Soil. mSystems 2019; 4:e00281-18. [PMID: 30637341 PMCID: PMC6325168 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00281-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding underlying mechanisms involved in microbial persistence in the built environment (BE) is essential for strategically mitigating potential health risks. To test the hypothesis that BEs impose selective pressures resulting in characteristic adaptive responses, we performed a pangenomics meta-analysis leveraging 189 genomes (accessed from GenBank) of two epidemiologically important taxa, Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from various origins: the International Space Station (ISS; a model BE), Earth-based BEs, soil, and humans. Our objectives were to (i) identify differences in the pangenomic composition of generalist and host-associated organisms, (ii) characterize genes and functions involved in BE-associated selection, and (iii) identify genomic signatures of ISS-derived strains of potential relevance for astronaut health. The pangenome of B. cereus was more expansive than that of S. aureus, which had a dominant core component. Genomic contents of both taxa significantly correlated with isolate origin, demonstrating an importance for biogeography and potential niche adaptations. ISS/BE-enriched functions were often involved in biosynthesis, catabolism, materials transport, metabolism, and stress response. Multiple origin-enriched functions also overlapped across taxa, suggesting conserved adaptive processes. We further characterized two mobile genetic elements with local neighborhood genes encoding biosynthesis and stress response functions that distinctively associated with B. cereus from the ISS. Although antibiotic resistance genes were present in ISS/BE isolates, they were also common in counterparts elsewhere. Overall, despite differences in microbial lifestyle, some functions appear common to remaining viable in the BE, and those functions are not typically associated with direct impacts on human health. IMPORTANCE The built environment contains a variety of microorganisms, some of which pose critical human health risks (e.g., hospital-acquired infection, antibiotic resistance dissemination). We uncovered a combination of complex biological functions that may play a role in bacterial survival under the presumed selective pressures in a model built environment-the International Space Station-by using an approach to compare pangenomes of bacterial strains from two clinically relevant species (B. cereus and S. aureus) isolated from both built environments and humans. Our findings suggest that the most crucial bacterial functions involved in this potential adaptive response are specific to bacterial lifestyle and do not appear to have direct impacts on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A. Blaustein
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Alexander G. McFarland
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah Ben Maamar
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Alberto Lopez
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah Castro-Wallace
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Erica M. Hartmann
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
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"The Smartphone's Guide to the Galaxy": In Situ Analysis in Space. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2018; 8:bios8040096. [PMID: 30347742 PMCID: PMC6316803 DOI: 10.3390/bios8040096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A human mission to Mars can be viewed as the apex of human technological achievement. However, to make this dream a reality several obstacles need to be overcome. One is devising practical ways to safeguard the crew health during the mission through the development of easy operable and compact sensors. Lately, several smartphone-based sensing devices (SBDs) with the purpose to enable the immediate sensitive detection of chemicals, proteins or pathogens in remote settings have emerged. In this critical review, the potential to piggyback these systems for in situ analysis in space has been investigated on application of a systematic keyword search whereby the most relevant articles were examined comprehensively and existing SBDs were divided into 4 relevant groups for the monitoring of crew health during space missions. Recently developed recognition elements (REs), which could offer the enhanced ability to tolerate those harsh conditions in space, have been reviewed with recommendations offered. In addition, the potential use of cell free synthetic biology to obtain long-term shelf-stable reagents was reviewed. Finally, a synopsis of the possibilities of combining novel SBD, RE and nanomaterials to create a compact sensor-platform ensuring adequate crew health monitoring has been provided.
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Zea L, Nisar Z, Rubin P, Cortesão M, Luo J, McBride SA, Moeller R, Klaus D, Müller D, Varanasi KK, Muecklich F, Stodieck L. Design of a spaceflight biofilm experiment. ACTA ASTRONAUTICA 2018; 148:294-300. [PMID: 30449911 PMCID: PMC6235448 DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2018.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Biofilm growth has been observed in Soviet/Russian (Salyuts and Mir), American (Skylab), and International (ISS) Space Stations, sometimes jeopardizing key equipment like spacesuits, water recycling units, radiators, and navigation windows. Biofilm formation also increases the risk of human illnesses and therefore needs to be well understood to enable safe, long-duration, human space missions. Here, the design of a NASA-supported biofilm in space project is reported. This new project aims to characterize biofilm inside the International Space Station in a controlled fashion, assessing changes in mass, thickness, and morphology. The space-based experiment also aims at elucidating the biomechanical and transcriptomic mechanisms involved in the formation of a "column-and-canopy" biofilm architecture that has previously been observed in space. To search for potential solutions, different materials and surface topologies will be used as the substrata for microbial growth. The adhesion of bacteria to surfaces and therefore the initial biofilm formation is strongly governed by topographical surface features of about the bacterial scale. Thus, using Direct Laser-Interference Patterning, some material coupons will have surface patterns with periodicities equal, above or below the size of bacteria. Additionally, a novel lubricant-impregnated surface will be assessed for potential Earth and spaceflight anti-biofilm applications. This paper describes the current experiment design including microbial strains and substrata materials and nanotopographies being considered, constraints and limitations that arise from performing experiments in space, and the next steps needed to mature the design to be spaceflight-ready.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Zea
- BioServe Space Technologies, Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
- Corresponding author. (L. Zea)
| | - Zeena Nisar
- BioServe Space Technologies, Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
| | - Phil Rubin
- BioServe Space Technologies, Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
| | - Marta Cortesão
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, 51147, Germany
| | - Jiaqi Luo
- Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Saarland University, 66123, Germany
| | - Samantha A. McBride
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, 51147, Germany
| | - David Klaus
- Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
| | - Daniel Müller
- Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Saarland University, 66123, Germany
| | - Kripa K. Varanasi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Frank Muecklich
- Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Saarland University, 66123, Germany
| | - Louis Stodieck
- BioServe Space Technologies, Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
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Crucian BE, Choukèr A, Simpson RJ, Mehta S, Marshall G, Smith SM, Zwart SR, Heer M, Ponomarev S, Whitmire A, Frippiat JP, Douglas GL, Lorenzi H, Buchheim JI, Makedonas G, Ginsburg GS, Ott CM, Pierson DL, Krieger SS, Baecker N, Sams C. Immune System Dysregulation During Spaceflight: Potential Countermeasures for Deep Space Exploration Missions. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1437. [PMID: 30018614 PMCID: PMC6038331 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have established that dysregulation of the human immune system and the reactivation of latent herpesviruses persists for the duration of a 6-month orbital spaceflight. It appears certain aspects of adaptive immunity are dysregulated during flight, yet some aspects of innate immunity are heightened. Interaction between adaptive and innate immunity also seems to be altered. Some crews experience persistent hypersensitivity reactions during flight. This phenomenon may, in synergy with extended duration and galactic radiation exposure, increase specific crew clinical risks during deep space exploration missions. The clinical challenge is based upon both the frequency of these phenomena in multiple crewmembers during low earth orbit missions and the inability to predict which specific individual crewmembers will experience these changes. Thus, a general countermeasure approach that offers the broadest possible coverage is needed. The vehicles, architecture, and mission profiles to enable such voyages are now under development. These include deployment and use of a cis-Lunar station (mid 2020s) with possible Moon surface operations, to be followed by multiple Mars flyby missions, and eventual human Mars surface exploration. Current ISS studies will continue to characterize physiological dysregulation associated with prolonged orbital spaceflight. However, sufficient information exists to begin consideration of both the need for, and nature of, specific immune countermeasures to ensure astronaut health. This article will review relevant in-place operational countermeasures onboard ISS and discuss a myriad of potential immune countermeasures for exploration missions. Discussion points include nutritional supplementation and functional foods, exercise and immunity, pharmacological options, the relationship between bone and immune countermeasures, and vaccination to mitigate herpes (and possibly other) virus risks. As the immune system has sentinel connectivity within every other physiological system, translational effects must be considered for all potential immune countermeasures. Finally, we shall discuss immune countermeasures in the context of their individualized implementation or precision medicine, based on crewmember specific immunological biases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian E. Crucian
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Alexander Choukèr
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Richard J. Simpson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Immunobiology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | | | - Gailen Marshall
- University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Scott M. Smith
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sara R. Zwart
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Martina Heer
- Institute of Nutritional and Food Sciences, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Jean P. Frippiat
- Stress Immunity Pathogens Laboratory, EA7300, Lorraine University, Nancy, France
| | - Grace L. Douglas
- Human Systems Engineering and Development Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Judith-Irina Buchheim
- Laboratory of Translational Research “Stress and Immunity”, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Geoffrey S. Ginsburg
- Duke Center for Applied Genomics and Precision Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - C. Mark Ott
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Duane L. Pierson
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Natalie Baecker
- Institute of Nutritional and Food Sciences, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Clarence Sams
- Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
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40
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Panesar SS, Ashkan K. Surgery in space. Br J Surg 2018; 105:1234-1243. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.10908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
There has been renewed public interest in manned space exploration owing to novel initiatives by private and governmental bodies. Long-term goals include manned missions to, and potential colonization of, nearby planets. Travel distances and mission length required for these would render Earth-based treatment and telemedical solutions unfeasible. These issues present an anticipatory challenge to planners, and novel or adaptive medical technologies must therefore be devised to diagnose and treat the range of medical issues that future space travellers will encounter.
Methods
The aim was to conduct a search of the literature pertaining to human physiology, pathology, trauma and surgery in space.
Results
Known physiological alterations include fluid redistribution, cardiovascular changes, bone and muscle atrophy, and effects of ionizing radiation. Potential pathological mechanisms identified include trauma, cancer and common surgical conditions, such as appendicitis.
Conclusion
Potential surgical treatment modalities must consist of self-sufficient and adaptive technology, especially in the face of uncertain pathophysiological mechanisms and logistical concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Panesar
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - K Ashkan
- Department of Neurosurgery, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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41
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Senatore G, Mastroleo F, Leys N, Mauriello G. Effect of microgravity & space radiation on microbes. Future Microbiol 2018; 13:831-847. [PMID: 29745771 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2017-0251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the new challenges facing humanity is to reach increasingly further distant space targets. It is therefore of upmost importance to understand the behavior of microorganisms that will unavoidably reach the space environment together with the human body and equipment. Indeed, microorganisms could activate their stress defense mechanisms, modifying properties related to human pathogenesis. The host-microbe interactions, in fact, could be substantially affected under spaceflight conditions and the study of microorganisms' growth and activity is necessary for predicting these behaviors and assessing precautionary measures during spaceflight. This review gives an overview of the effects of microgravity and space radiation on microorganisms both in real and simulated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Senatore
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Mastroleo
- Microbiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK•CEN), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Natalie Leys
- Microbiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK•CEN), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Gianluigi Mauriello
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Naples, Italy
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Thornhill SG, Kumar M. Biological filters and their use in potable water filtration systems in spaceflight conditions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2018; 17:40-43. [PMID: 29753412 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Providing drinking water to space missions such as the International Space Station (ISS) is a costly requirement for human habitation. To limit the costs of water transport, wastewater is collected and purified using a variety of physical and chemical means. To date, sand-based biofilters have been designed to function against gravity, and biofilms have been shown to form in microgravity conditions. Development of a universal silver-recycling biological filter system that is able to function in both microgravity and full gravity conditions would reduce the costs incurred in removing organic contaminants from wastewater by limiting the energy and chemical inputs required. This paper aims to propose the use of a sand-substrate biofilter to replace chemical means of water purification on manned spaceflights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Starla G Thornhill
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA.
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA.
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Chancellor JC, Blue RS, Cengel KA, Auñón-Chancellor SM, Rubins KH, Katzgraber HG, Kennedy AR. Limitations in predicting the space radiation health risk for exploration astronauts. NPJ Microgravity 2018; 4:8. [PMID: 29644336 PMCID: PMC5882936 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-018-0043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite years of research, understanding of the space radiation environment and the risk it poses to long-duration astronauts remains limited. There is a disparity between research results and observed empirical effects seen in human astronaut crews, likely due to the numerous factors that limit terrestrial simulation of the complex space environment and extrapolation of human clinical consequences from varied animal models. Given the intended future of human spaceflight, with efforts now to rapidly expand capabilities for human missions to the moon and Mars, there is a pressing need to improve upon the understanding of the space radiation risk, predict likely clinical outcomes of interplanetary radiation exposure, and develop appropriate and effective mitigation strategies for future missions. To achieve this goal, the space radiation and aerospace community must recognize the historical limitations of radiation research and how such limitations could be addressed in future research endeavors. We have sought to highlight the numerous factors that limit understanding of the risk of space radiation for human crews and to identify ways in which these limitations could be addressed for improved understanding and appropriate risk posture regarding future human spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery C Chancellor
- 1Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4242 USA
| | - Rebecca S Blue
- 2Aerospace Medicine and Vestibular Research Laboratory, The Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ 85054 USA
| | - Keith A Cengel
- 3Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Serena M Auñón-Chancellor
- 4National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Johnson Space Center, Houston, 77058 USA.,5University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555 USA
| | - Kathleen H Rubins
- 4National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Johnson Space Center, Houston, 77058 USA
| | - Helmut G Katzgraber
- 1Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4242 USA.,1QB Information Technologies (1QBit), Vancouver, BC V6B 4W4 Canada.,7Santa Fe Institute, 1399 Hyde Park Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501 USA
| | - Ann R Kennedy
- 3Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
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Hinkelbein J, Russomano T, Hinkelbein F, Komorowski M. Cardiac arrest during space missions: Specificities and challenges. TRENDS IN ANAESTHESIA AND CRITICAL CARE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tacc.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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45
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Anaesthesia in austere environments: literature review and considerations for future space exploration missions. NPJ Microgravity 2018; 4:5. [PMID: 29507873 PMCID: PMC5824960 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-018-0039-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Future space exploration missions will take humans far beyond low Earth orbit and require complete crew autonomy. The ability to provide anaesthesia will be important given the expected risk of severe medical events requiring surgery. Knowledge and experience of such procedures during space missions is currently extremely limited. Austere and isolated environments (such as polar bases or submarines) have been used extensively as test beds for spaceflight to probe hazards, train crews, develop clinical protocols and countermeasures for prospective space missions. We have conducted a literature review on anaesthesia in austere environments relevant to distant space missions. In each setting, we assessed how the problems related to the provision of anaesthesia (e.g., medical kit and skills) are dealt with or prepared for. We analysed how these factors could be applied to the unique environment of a space exploration mission. The delivery of anaesthesia will be complicated by many factors including space-induced physiological changes and limitations in skills and equipment. The basic principles of a safe anaesthesia in an austere environment (appropriate training, presence of minimal safety and monitoring equipment, etc.) can be extended to the context of a space exploration mission. Skills redundancy is an important safety factor, and basic competency in anaesthesia should be part of the skillset of several crewmembers. The literature suggests that safe and effective anaesthesia could be achieved by a physician during future space exploration missions. In a life-or-limb situation, non-physicians may be able to conduct anaesthetic procedures, including simplified general anaesthesia.
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Yang Y, Qu C, Liang S, Wang G, Han H, Chen N, Wang X, Luo Z, Zhong C, Chen Y, Li L, Wu W. Estrogen inhibits the overgrowth of Escherichia coli in the rat intestine under simulated microgravity. Mol Med Rep 2017; 17:2313-2320. [PMID: 29207065 PMCID: PMC5783461 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.8109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Microgravity can affect many aspects of intestinal homeostasis, leading to an increased risk of colitis. Estrogen, the most frequently affected hormone when under simulated microgravity, regulates the permeability of the colonic mucosa barrier. The associations between alterations in intestinal microbiota and increased susceptibility under microgravity have not been thoroughly elucidated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in intestinal microbiota under simulated microgravity and to investigate the protective effect of estrogen against those changes. The hindlimb unweighting (HU) model was used to simulate microgravity in rats. Estrogen was administered via intramuscular injection. Amplicons of the V3 variable regions of bacterial 16S rDNA were analyzed using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), cloning and sequencing. Several specific bacterial groups were assayed using quantitative-polymerase chain reaction. Bacterial translocation was evaluated by detecting serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and LPS binding protein (LBP) levels. DGGE profiles generated by universal primers revealed minor, though specific, changes in bacterial communities under simulated microgravity, particularly the band matching the sequence of Escherichia coli (E. coli). The quantification of 16S RNA revealed increased numbers of Bacteroides fragilis, E. coli and Fusobacterium nucleatum; however, Bifidobacteria longum significantly decreased under microgravity. Estrogen inhibited the overgrowth of E. coli, and decreased the levels of LBS and LBP under simulated microgravity. These results demonstrated that simulated microgravity alters the intestinal microflora and may contribute to bacterial translocation in the gut mucosa. The data also suggested that further investigations evaluating the administration of estrogen to protect against microgravity-associated diseases may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongtao Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Changmin Qu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Shuwen Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Haolun Han
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Na Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Zhiwen Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Changqing Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Lianyong Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
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Successful amplification of DNA aboard the International Space Station. NPJ Microgravity 2017; 3:26. [PMID: 29167819 PMCID: PMC5691047 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-017-0033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
As the range and duration of human ventures into space increase, it becomes imperative that we understand the effects of the cosmic environment on astronaut health. Molecular technologies now widely used in research and medicine will need to become available in space to ensure appropriate care of astronauts. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the gold standard for DNA analysis, yet its potential for use on-orbit remains under-explored. We describe DNA amplification aboard the International Space Station (ISS) through the use of a miniaturized miniPCR system. Target sequences in plasmid, zebrafish genomic DNA, and bisulfite-treated DNA were successfully amplified under a variety of conditions. Methylation-specific primers differentially amplified bisulfite-treated samples as would be expected under standard laboratory conditions. Our findings establish proof of concept for targeted detection of DNA sequences during spaceflight and lay a foundation for future uses ranging from environmental monitoring to on-orbit diagnostics.
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Schwendner P, Mahnert A, Koskinen K, Moissl-Eichinger C, Barczyk S, Wirth R, Berg G, Rettberg P. Preparing for the crewed Mars journey: microbiota dynamics in the confined Mars500 habitat during simulated Mars flight and landing. MICROBIOME 2017; 5:129. [PMID: 28974259 PMCID: PMC5627443 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-017-0345-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Mars500 project was conceived as the first full duration simulation of a crewed return flight to Mars. For 520 days, six crew members lived confined in a specifically designed spacecraft mock-up. The herein described "MIcrobial ecology of Confined Habitats and humAn health" (MICHA) experiment was implemented to acquire comprehensive microbiota data from this unique, confined manned habitat, to retrieve important information on the occurring microbiota dynamics, the microbial load and diversity in the air and on various surfaces. In total, 360 samples from 20 (9 air, 11 surface) locations were taken at 18 time-points and processed by extensive cultivation, PhyloChip and next generation sequencing (NGS) of 16S rRNA gene amplicons. RESULTS Cultivation assays revealed a Staphylococcus and Bacillus-dominated microbial community on various surfaces, with an average microbial load that did not exceed the allowed limits for ISS in-flight requirements indicating adequate maintenance of the facility. Areas with high human activity were identified as hotspots for microbial accumulation. Despite substantial fluctuation with respect to microbial diversity and abundance throughout the experiment, the location within the facility and the confinement duration were identified as factors significantly shaping the microbial diversity and composition, with the crew representing the main source for microbial dispersal. Opportunistic pathogens, stress-tolerant or potentially mobile element-bearing microorganisms were predicted to be prevalent throughout the confinement, while the overall microbial diversity dropped significantly over time. CONCLUSIONS Our findings clearly indicate that under confined conditions, the community structure remains a highly dynamic system which adapts to the prevailing habitat and micro-conditions. Since a sterile environment is not achievable, these dynamics need to be monitored to avoid spreading of highly resistant or potentially pathogenic microorganisms and a potentially harmful decrease of microbial diversity. If necessary, countermeasures are required, to maintain a healthy, diverse balance of beneficial, neutral and opportunistic pathogenic microorganisms. Our results serve as an important data collection for (i) future risk estimations of crewed space flight, (ii) an optimized design and planning of a spacecraft mission and (iii) for the selection of appropriate microbial monitoring approaches and potential countermeasures, to ensure a microbiologically safe space-flight environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Schwendner
- Radiation Biology Department, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Linder Höhe, 51147 Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
- Present address: UK Center for Astrobiology, University of Edinburgh, School of Physics and Astronomy, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FD UK
| | - Alexander Mahnert
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Petersgasse 12/I, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Kaisa Koskinen
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Internal Medicine, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Mozartgasse 12/II, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christine Moissl-Eichinger
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Internal Medicine, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Mozartgasse 12/II, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Simon Barczyk
- Radiation Biology Department, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Linder Höhe, 51147 Cologne, Germany
| | - Reinhard Wirth
- Institute for Microbiology, University of Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Berg
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Petersgasse 12/I, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Petra Rettberg
- Radiation Biology Department, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Linder Höhe, 51147 Cologne, Germany
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Zea L, Larsen M, Estante F, Qvortrup K, Moeller R, Dias de Oliveira S, Stodieck L, Klaus D. Phenotypic Changes Exhibited by E. coli Cultured in Space. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1598. [PMID: 28894439 PMCID: PMC5581483 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria will accompany humans in our exploration of space, making it of importance to study their adaptation to the microgravity environment. To investigate potential phenotypic changes for bacteria grown in space, Escherichia coli was cultured onboard the International Space Station with matched controls on Earth. Samples were challenged with different concentrations of gentamicin sulfate to study the role of drug concentration on the dependent variables in the space environment. Analyses included assessments of final cell count, cell size, cell envelope thickness, cell ultrastructure, and culture morphology. A 13-fold increase in final cell count was observed in space with respect to the ground controls and the space flight cells were able to grow in the presence of normally inhibitory levels of gentamicin sulfate. Contrast light microscopy and focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy showed that, on average, cells in space were 37% of the volume of their matched controls, which may alter the rate of molecule–cell interactions in a diffusion-limited mass transport regime as is expected to occur in microgravity. TEM imagery showed an increase in cell envelope thickness of between 25 and 43% in space with respect to the Earth control group. Outer membrane vesicles were observed on the spaceflight samples, but not on the Earth cultures. While E. coli suspension cultures on Earth were homogenously distributed throughout the liquid medium, in space they tended to form a cluster, leaving the surrounding medium visibly clear of cells. This cell aggregation behavior may be associated with enhanced biofilm formation observed in other spaceflight experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Zea
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado Boulder, BoulderCO, United States
| | - Michael Larsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederico Estante
- Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, BoulderCO, United States
| | - Klaus Qvortrup
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Space Microbiology Research Group, Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace CenterCologne, Germany
| | - Sílvia Dias de Oliveira
- Immunology and Microbiology Laboratory, The Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do SulPorto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Louis Stodieck
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado Boulder, BoulderCO, United States
| | - David Klaus
- Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, BoulderCO, United States
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Abstract
Evolutionarily, man is a terrestrial mammal, adapted to land. Aviation and now space/microgravity environment, hence, pose new challenges to our physiology. Exposure to these changes affects the human body in acute and chronic settings. Since skin reflects our mental and physical well-being, any change/side effects of this environment shall be detected on the skin. Aerospace industry offers a unique environment with a blend of all possible occupational disorders, encompassing all systems of the body, particularly the skin. Aerospace dermatologists in the near future shall be called upon for their expertise as we continue to push human physiological boundaries with faster and more powerful military aircraft and look to colonize space stations and other planets. Microgravity living shall push dermatology into its next big leap-space, the final frontier. This article discusses the physiological effects of this environment on skin, effect of common dermatoses in aerospace environment, effect of microgravity on skin, and occupational hazards of this industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Arora
- Department of Dermatology, Command Hospital Air Force, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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