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Impey S, Raber J. Irradiation and Alterations in Hippocampal DNA Methylation. EPIGENOMES 2024; 8:27. [PMID: 39051185 PMCID: PMC11270359 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes8030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The response of the brain to radiation is important for cancer patients receiving whole or partial brain irradiation or total body irradiation, those exposed to irradiation as part of a nuclear accident or a nuclear war or terrorism event, and for astronauts during and following space missions. The mechanisms mediating the effects of irradiation on the hippocampus might be associated with alterations in hippocampal DNA methylation. Changes in cytosine methylation involving the addition of a methyl group to cytosine (5 mC) and especially those involving the addition of a hydroxy group to 5 mC (hydroxymethylcytosine or 5 hmC) play a key role in regulating the expression of genes required for hippocampal function. In this review article, we will discuss the effects of radiation on hippocampal DNA methylation and whether these effects are associated with hippocampus-dependent cognitive measures and molecular measures in the hippocampus involved in cognitive measures. We will also discuss whether the radiation-induced changes in hippocampal DNA methylation show an overlap across different doses of heavy ion irradiation and across irradiation with different ions. We will also discuss whether the DNA methylation changes show a tissue-dependent response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soren Impey
- Dow Neurobiology Laboratories, Legacy Research Institute Legacy Health Systems, 1225 NE 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97232, USA
- Departments of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurology, and Radiation Medicine, Division of Neuroscience, ONPRC, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Jacob Raber
- Departments of Behavioral Neuroscience, Neurology, and Radiation Medicine, Division of Neuroscience, ONPRC, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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Desai RI, Kangas BD, Luc OT, Solakidou E, Smith EC, Dawes MH, Ma X, Makriyannis A, Chatterjee S, Dayeh MA, Muñoz-Jaramillo A, Desai MI, Limoli CL. Complex 33-beam simulated galactic cosmic radiation exposure impacts cognitive function and prefrontal cortex neurotransmitter networks in male mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7779. [PMID: 38012180 PMCID: PMC10682413 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42173-x] [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: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Astronauts will encounter extended exposure to galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) during deep space exploration, which could impair brain function. Here, we report that in male mice, acute or chronic GCR exposure did not modify reward sensitivity but did adversely affect attentional processes and increased reaction times. Potassium (K+)-stimulation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) elevated dopamine (DA) but abolished temporal DA responsiveness after acute and chronic GCR exposure. Unlike acute GCR, chronic GCR increased levels of all other neurotransmitters, with differences evident between groups after higher K+-stimulation. Correlational and machine learning analysis showed that acute and chronic GCR exposure differentially reorganized the connection strength and causation of DA and other PFC neurotransmitter networks compared to controls which may explain space radiation-induced neurocognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev I Desai
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Behavioral Biology Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Brian D Kangas
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Behavioral Biology Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Oanh T Luc
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Behavioral Biology Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Eleana Solakidou
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Evan C Smith
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Monica H Dawes
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Behavioral Biology Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Ma
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | | | - Maher A Dayeh
- Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78238, USA
- University of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | | | - Mihir I Desai
- Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78238, USA
- University of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA, 92697, USA
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Britten RA, Fesshaye A, Tidmore A, Liu A, Blackwell AA. Loss of Cognitive Flexibility Practice Effects in Female Rats Exposed to Simulated Space Radiation. Radiat Res 2023; 200:256-265. [PMID: 37527363 DOI: 10.1667/rade-22-00196.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
During the planned missions to Mars, astronauts will be faced with many potential health hazards including prolonged exposure to space radiation. Ground-based studies have shown that exposure to space radiation impairs the performance of male rats in cognitive flexibility tasks which involve processes that are essential to rapidly and efficiently adapting to different situations. However, there is presently a paucity of information on the effects of space radiation on cognitive flexibility in female rodents. This study has determined the impact that exposure to a low (10 cGy) dose of ions from the simplified 5-ion galactic cosmic ray simulation [https://www.bnl.gov/nsrl/userguide/SimGCRSim.php (07/2023)] (GCRSim) beam or 250 MeV/n 4He ions has on the ability of female Wistar rats to perform in constrained [attentional set shifting (ATSET)] and unconstrained cognitive flexibility (UCFlex) tasks. Female rats exposed to GCRSim exhibited multiple decrements in ATSET performance. Firstly, GCRSim exposure impaired performance in the compound discrimination (CD) stage of the ATSET task. While the ability of rats to identify the rewarded cue was not compromised, the time the rats required to do so significantly increased. Secondly, both 4He and GCRSim exposure reduced the ability of rats to reach criterion in the compound discrimination reversal (CDR) stage. Approximately 20% of the irradiated rats were unable to complete the CDR task; furthermore, the irradiated rats that did reach criterion took more attempts to do so than did the sham-treated animals. Radiation exposure also altered the magnitude and/or nature of practice effects. A comparison of performance metrics from the pre-screen and post-exposure ATSET task revealed that while the sham-treated rats completed the post-exposure CD stage of the ATSET task in 30% less time than for completion of the pre-screen ATSET task, the irradiated rats took 30-50% longer to do so. Similarly, while sham-treated rats completed the CDR stage in ∼10% fewer attempts in the post-exposure task compared to the pre-screen task, in contrast, the 4He- and GCRSim-exposed cohorts took more (∼2-fold) attempts to reach criterion in the post-exposure task than in the pre-screen task. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that female rats are susceptible to radiation-induced loss of performance in the constrained ATSET cognitive flexibility task. Moreover, exposure to radiation leads to multiple performance decrements, including loss of practice effects, an increase in anterograde interference and reduced ability or unwillingness to switch attention. Should similar effects occur in humans, astronauts may have a compromised ability to perform complex tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Britten
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
- EVMS Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
| | - Arriyam Fesshaye
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
| | - Alyssa Tidmore
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
| | - Aiyi Liu
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
| | - Ashley A Blackwell
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
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Impey S, Pelz C, Riparip LK, Tafessu A, Fareh F, Zuloaga DG, Marzulla T, Stewart B, Rosi S, Turker MS, Raber J. Postsynaptic density radiation signature following space irradiation. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1215535. [PMID: 37440997 PMCID: PMC10334289 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1215535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The response of the brain to space radiation is an important concern for astronauts during space missions. Therefore, we assessed the response of the brain to 28Si ion irradiation (600 MeV/n), a heavy ion present in the space environment, on cognitive performance and whether the response is associated with altered DNA methylation in the hippocampus, a brain area important for cognitive performance. Methods: We determined the effects of 28Si ion irradiation on object recognition, 6-month-old mice irradiated with 28Si ions (600 MeV/n, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 Gy) and cognitively tested two weeks later. In addition, we determined if those effects were associated with alterations in hippocampal networks and/or hippocampal DNA methylation. Results: At 0.3 Gy, but not at 0.6 Gy or 0.9 Gy, 28Si ion irradiation impaired cognition that correlated with altered gene expression and 5 hmC profiles that mapped to specific gene ontology pathways. Comparing hippocampal DNA hydroxymethylation following proton, 56Fe ion, and 28Si ion irradiation revealed a general space radiation synaptic signature with 45 genes that are associated with profound phenotypes. The most significant categories were glutamatergic synapse and postsynaptic density. Discussion: The brain's response to space irradiation involves novel excitatory synapse and postsynaptic remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soren Impey
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Dow Neuroscience Laboratories, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Legacy Research Institute, Legacy Health Systems, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Carl Pelz
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Lara-Kirstie Riparip
- Departments of Neurological Surgery and Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Amanuel Tafessu
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Fatema Fareh
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Stem Cell Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Damian G. Zuloaga
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Tessa Marzulla
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Blair Stewart
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Susanna Rosi
- Departments of Neurological Surgery and Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Brain and Spinal Injury Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Mitchell S. Turker
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jacob Raber
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Departments of Neurology and Radiation Medicine, Division of Neuroscience ONPRC, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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Britten RA, Limoli CL. New Radiobiological Principles for the CNS Arising from Space Radiation Research. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1293. [PMID: 37374076 DOI: 10.3390/life13061293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, the brain has been regarded as a relatively insensitive late-reacting tissue, with radiologically detectable damage not being reported at doses < 60 Gy. When NASA proposed interplanetary exploration missions, it was required to conduct an intensive health and safety evaluation of cancer, cardiovascular, and cognitive risks associated with exposure to deep space radiation (SR). The SR dose that astronauts on a mission to Mars are predicted to receive is ~300 mGy. Even after correcting for the higher RBE of the SR particles, the biologically effective SR dose (<1 Gy) would still be 60-fold lower than the threshold dose for clinically detectable neurological damage. Unexpectedly, the NASA-funded research program has consistently reported that low (<250 mGy) doses of SR induce deficits in multiple cognitive functions. This review will discuss these findings and the radical paradigm shifts in radiobiological principles for the brain that were required in light of these findings. These included a shift from cell killing to loss of function models, an expansion of the critical brain regions for radiation-induced cognitive impediments, and the concept that the neuron may not be the sole critical target for neurocognitive impairment. The accrued information on how SR exposure impacts neurocognitive performance may provide new opportunities to reduce neurocognitive impairment in brain cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Britten
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Department Radiation Oncology, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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Stephenson S, Liu A, Blackwell AA, Britten RA. Multiple decrements in switch task performance in female rats exposed to space radiation. Behav Brain Res 2023; 449:114465. [PMID: 37142163 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114465] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Astronauts on the Artemis missions to the Moon and Mars will be exposed to unavoidable Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR). Studies using male rats suggest that GCR exposure impairs several processes required for cognitive flexibility performance, including attention and task switching. Currently no comparable studies have been conducted with female rats. Given that both males and females will travel into deep space, this study determined whether simulated GCR (GCRsim) exposure impairs task switching performance in female rats. Female Wistar rats exposed to 10cGy GCRsim (n = 12) and shams (n=14) were trained to perform a touchscreen-based switch task that mimics a switch task used to evaluate pilots' response times. In comparison to sham rats, three-fold more GCRsim-exposed rats failed to complete the stimulus response stage of training, a high cognitive loading task. In the switch task, 50% of the GCRsim-exposed rats failed to consistently transition between the repeated and switch blocks of stimuli, which they completed during lower cognitive loading training stages. The GCRsim-exposed rats that completed the switch task only performed at 65% of the accuracy of shams. Female rats exposed to GCRsim thus exhibit multiple decrements in the switch task under high, but not low, cognitive loading conditions. While the operational significance of this performance decrement is unknown, if GCRSim exposure was to induce similar effects in astronauts, our data suggests there may be a reduced ability to execute task switching under high cognitive loading situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Stephenson
- School of Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507 USA
| | - Aiyi Liu
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507 USA
| | - Ashley A Blackwell
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507 USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507 USA
| | - Richard A Britten
- EVMS Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507 USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507 USA.
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The Effects of Galactic Cosmic Rays on the Central Nervous System: From Negative to Unexpectedly Positive Effects That Astronauts May Encounter. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12030400. [PMID: 36979092 PMCID: PMC10044754 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Galactic cosmic rays (GCR) pose a serious threat to astronauts’ health during deep space missions. The possible functional alterations of the central nervous system (CNS) under GCR exposure can be critical for mission success. Despite the obvious negative effects of ionizing radiation, a number of neutral or even positive effects of GCR irradiation on CNS functions were revealed in ground-based experiments with rodents and primates. This review is focused on the GCR exposure effects on emotional state and cognition, emphasizing positive effects and their potential mechanisms. We integrate these data with GCR effects on adult neurogenesis and pathological protein aggregation, forming a complete picture. We conclude that GCR exposure causes multidirectional effects on cognition, which may be associated with emotional state alterations. However, the irradiation in space-related doses either has no effect or has performance enhancing effects in solving high-level cognition tasks and tasks with a high level of motivation. We suppose the model of neurotransmission changes after irradiation, although the molecular mechanisms of this phenomenon are not fully understood.
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Goel H, Goyal K, Pandey AK, Benjamin M, Khan F, Pandey P, Mittan S, Iqbal D, Alsaweed M, Alturaiki W, Madkhali Y, Kamal MA, Tanwar P, Upadhyay TK. Elucidations of Molecular Mechanism and Mechanistic Effects of Environmental Toxicants in Neurological Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2023; 22:84-97. [PMID: 35352654 DOI: 10.2174/1871527321666220329103610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Due to rising environmental and global public health concerns associated with environmental contamination, human populations are continually being exposed to environmental toxicants, including physical chemical mutagens widespread in our environment causing adverse consequences and inducing a variety of neurological disorders in humans. Physical mutagens comprise ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, such as UV rays, IR rays, X-rays, which produces a broad spectrum of neuronal destruction, including neuroinflammation, genetic instability, enhanced oxidative stress driving mitochondrial damage in the human neuronal antecedent cells, cognitive impairment due to alterations in neuronal function, especially in synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis repression, modifications in mature neuronal networks drives to enhanced neurodegenerative risk. Chemical Mutagens including alkylating agents (EMS, NM, MMS, and NTG), Hydroxylamine, nitrous acid, sodium azide, halouracils are the major toxic mutagen in our environment and have been associated with neurological disorders. These chemical mutagens create dimers of pyrimidine that cause DNA damage that leads to ROS generation producing mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, genotoxicity which leads to increased neurodegenerative risk. The toxicity of four heavy metal including Cd, As, Pb, Hg is mostly responsible for complicated neurological disorders in humans. Cadmium exposure can enhance the permeability of the BBB and penetrate the brain, driving brain intracellular accumulation, cellular dysfunction, and cerebral edema. Arsenic exerts its toxic effect by induction of ROS production in neuronal cells. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanism and mechanistic effects of mutagens in the environment and their role in multiple neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsh Goel
- Department of Laboratory Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Keshav Goyal
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Ludwig Maximilians Universitat, Munchen, Germany
| | - Avanish Kumar Pandey
- Department of Laboratory Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Mercilena Benjamin
- Department of Laboratory Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Fahad Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, 19, Knowledge Park-II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida, India
| | - Pratibha Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology, 19, Knowledge Park-II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida, India
| | - Sandeep Mittan
- Department of Cardiology, Ichan School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, USA
| | - Danish Iqbal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alsaweed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael Alturaiki
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yahya Madkhali
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Amjad Kamal
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Bangladesh
- Enzymoics, 7 Peterlee Place, Hebersham NSW 2770, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia
| | - Pranay Tanwar
- Department of Laboratory Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Tarun Kumar Upadhyay
- Department of Biotechnology, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences and Cell Culture and Immunobiochemistry Lab, Centre of Research for Development, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat 391760, India
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Simmons P, Trujillo M, McElroy T, Binz R, Pathak R, Allen AR. Evaluating the effects of low-dose simulated galactic cosmic rays on murine hippocampal-dependent cognitive performance. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:908632. [PMID: 36561122 PMCID: PMC9765097 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.908632] [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: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Space exploration has advanced substantially over recent decades and plans to increase the duration of deep space missions are in preparation. One of the primary health concerns is potential damage to the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in loss of cognitive abilities and function. The majority of ground-based research on space radiation-induced health risks has been conducted using single particle simulations, which do not effectively model real-world scenarios. Thus, to improve the safety of space missions, we must expand our understanding of the effects of simulated galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) on the CNS. To assess the effects of low-dose GCR, we subjected 6-month-old male BALB/c mice to 50 cGy 5-beam simplified GCR spectrum (1H, 28Si, 4He, 16O, and 56Fe) whole-body irradiation at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory. Animals were tested for cognitive performance with Y-maze and Morris water maze tests 3 months after irradiation. Irradiated animals had impaired short-term memory and lacked spatial memory retention on day 5 of the probe trial. Glial cell analysis by flow cytometry showed no significant changes in oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, microglia or neural precursor cells (NPC's) between the sham group and GCR group. Bone marrow cytogenetic data showed a significant increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations after GCR exposure. Finally, tandem mass tag proteomics identified 3,639 proteins, 113 of which were differentially expressed when comparing sham versus GCR exposure (fold change > 1.5; p < 0.05). Our data suggest exposure to low-dose GCR induces cognitive deficits by impairing short-term memory and spatial memory retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Simmons
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Madison Trujillo
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Taylor McElroy
- Department of Aging, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Regina Binz
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Rupak Pathak
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Antiño R. Allen
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States,*Correspondence: Antiño R. Allen,
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Lebedeva-Georgievskaya KB, Perevezentsev AA, Kuznetsova OS, Kudrin VS, Masanova AA, Stemberg AS. Long-Term Neurobiological Effects of Combined Exposure to Anti-Orthostatic Hanging and Ionizing Radiation. BIOL BULL+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359022120081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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11
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Peter JS, Schuemann J, Held KD, McNamara AL. Nano-scale simulation of neuronal damage by galactic cosmic rays. Phys Med Biol 2022; 67:10.1088/1361-6560/ac95f4. [PMID: 36172820 PMCID: PMC9951267 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ac95f4] [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: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The effects of realistic, deep space radiation environments on neuronal function remain largely unexplored.In silicomodeling studies of radiation-induced neuronal damage provide important quantitative information about physico-chemical processes that are not directly accessible through radiobiological experiments. Here, we present the first nano-scale computational analysis of broad-spectrum galactic cosmic ray irradiation in a realistic neuron geometry. We constructed thousands ofin silicorealizations of a CA1 pyramidal neuron, each with over 3500 stochastically generated dendritic spines. We simulated the entire 33 ion-energy beam spectrum currently in use at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory galactic cosmic ray simulator (GCRSim) using the TOol for PArticle Simulation (TOPAS) and TOPAS-nBio Monte Carlo-based track structure simulation toolkits. We then assessed the resulting nano-scale dosimetry, physics processes, and fluence patterns. Additional comparisons were made to a simplified 6 ion-energy spectrum (SimGCRSim) also used in NASA experiments. For a neuronal absorbed dose of 0.5 Gy GCRSim, we report an average of 250 ± 10 ionizations per micrometer of dendritic length, and an additional 50 ± 10, 7 ± 2, and 4 ± 2 ionizations per mushroom, thin, and stubby spine, respectively. We show that neuronal energy deposition by proton andα-particle tracks declines approximately hyperbolically with increasing primary particle energy at mission-relevant energies. We demonstrate an inverted exponential relationship between dendritic segment irradiation probability and neuronal absorbed dose for each ion-energy beam. We also find that there are no significant differences in the average physical responses between the GCRSim and SimGCRSim spectra. To our knowledge, this is the first nano-scale simulation study of a realistic neuron geometry using the GCRSim and SimGCRSim spectra. These results may be used as inputs to theoretical models, aid in the interpretation of experimental results, and help guide future study designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah S Peter
- Biophysics Program, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States of America
| | - Jan Schuemann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States of America
| | - Kathryn D Held
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States of America
| | - Aimee L McNamara
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, United States of America
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Mhatre SD, Iyer J, Petereit J, Dolling-Boreham RM, Tyryshkina A, Paul AM, Gilbert R, Jensen M, Woolsey RJ, Anand S, Sowa MB, Quilici DR, Costes SV, Girirajan S, Bhattacharya S. Artificial gravity partially protects space-induced neurological deficits in Drosophila melanogaster. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111279. [PMID: 36070701 PMCID: PMC10503492 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight poses risks to the central nervous system (CNS), and understanding neurological responses is important for future missions. We report CNS changes in Drosophila aboard the International Space Station in response to spaceflight microgravity (SFμg) and artificially simulated Earth gravity (SF1g) via inflight centrifugation as a countermeasure. While inflight behavioral analyses of SFμg exhibit increased activity, postflight analysis displays significant climbing defects, highlighting the sensitivity of behavior to altered gravity. Multi-omics analysis shows alterations in metabolic, oxidative stress and synaptic transmission pathways in both SFμg and SF1g; however, neurological changes immediately postflight, including neuronal loss, glial cell count alterations, oxidative damage, and apoptosis, are seen only in SFμg. Additionally, progressive neuronal loss and a glial phenotype in SF1g and SFμg brains, with pronounced phenotypes in SFμg, are seen upon acclimation to Earth conditions. Overall, our results indicate that artificial gravity partially protects the CNS from the adverse effects of spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhita D Mhatre
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; KBR, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; COSMIAC Research Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Janani Iyer
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; KBR, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA
| | - Juli Petereit
- Nevada Bioinformatics Center, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Roberta M Dolling-Boreham
- Department of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Seattle, WA 94035, USA
| | - Anastasia Tyryshkina
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Amber M Paul
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA; Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Seattle, WA 94035, USA; NASA Postdoctoral Program, Universities Space Research Association, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Department of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, USA
| | - Rachel Gilbert
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; NASA Postdoctoral Program, Universities Space Research Association, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Matthew Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | | | - Sulekha Anand
- Department of Biological Sciences, San Jose State University, San Jose, CA 95192, USA
| | - Marianne B Sowa
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - David R Quilici
- Nevada Proteomics Center, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Sylvain V Costes
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Santhosh Girirajan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Sharmila Bhattacharya
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; Biological and Physical Sciences Division, NASA Headquarters, Washington DC 20024, USA.
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13
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Laiakis EC, Pinheiro M, Nguyen T, Nguyen H, Beheshti A, Dutta SM, Russell WK, Emmett MR, Britten RA. Quantitative proteomic analytic approaches to identify metabolic changes in the medial prefrontal cortex of rats exposed to space radiation. Front Physiol 2022; 13:971282. [PMID: 36091373 PMCID: PMC9459391 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.971282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NASA’s planned mission to Mars will result in astronauts being exposed to ∼350 mSv/yr of Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR). A growing body of data from ground-based experiments indicates that exposure to space radiation doses (approximating those that astronauts will be exposed to on a mission to Mars) impairs a variety of cognitive processes, including cognitive flexibility tasks. Some studies report that 33% of individuals may experience severe cognitive impairment. Translating the results from ground-based rodent studies into tangible risk estimates for astronauts is an enormous challenge, but it would be germane for NASA to use the vast body of data from the rodent studies to start developing appropriate countermeasures, in the expectation that some level of space radiation (SR) -induced cognitive impairment could occur in astronauts. While some targeted studies have reported radiation-induced changes in the neurotransmission properties and/or increased neuroinflammation within space radiation exposed brains, there remains little information that can be used to start the development of a mechanism-based countermeasure strategy. In this study, we have employed a robust label-free mass spectrometry (MS) -based untargeted quantitative proteomic profiling approach to characterize the composition of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) proteome in rats that have been exposed to 15 cGy of 600 MeV/n28Si ions. A variety of analytical techniques were used to mine the generated expression data, which in such studies is typically hampered by low and variable sample size. We have identified several pathways and proteins whose expression alters as a result of space radiation exposure, including decreased mitochondrial function, and a further subset of proteins differs in rats that have a high level of cognitive performance after SR exposure in comparison with those that have low performance levels. While this study has provided further insight into how SR impacts upon neurophysiology, and what adaptive responses can be invoked to prevent the emergence of SR-induced cognitive impairment, the main objective of this paper is to outline strategies that can be used by others to analyze sub-optimal data sets and to identify new information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evagelia C. Laiakis
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
- *Correspondence: Evagelia C. Laiakis,
| | - Maisa Pinheiro
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Tin Nguyen
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Hung Nguyen
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Afshin Beheshti
- KBR, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Mountain View, CA, United States
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Sucharita M. Dutta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - William K. Russell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Mark R. Emmett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Richard A. Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- Center for Integrative Neuroinflammatory and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
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14
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Desai RI, Limoli CL, Stark CEL, Stark SM. Impact of spaceflight stressors on behavior and cognition: A molecular, neurochemical, and neurobiological perspective. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 138:104676. [PMID: 35461987 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The response of the human body to multiple spaceflight stressors is complex, but mounting evidence implicate risks to CNS functionality as significant, able to threaten metrics of mission success and longer-term behavioral and neurocognitive health. Prolonged exposure to microgravity, sleep disruption, social isolation, fluid shifts, and ionizing radiation have been shown to disrupt mechanisms of homeostasis and neurobiological well-being. The overarching goal of this review is to document the existing evidence of how the major spaceflight stressors, including radiation, microgravity, isolation/confinement, and sleep deprivation, alone or in combination alter molecular, neurochemical, neurobiological, and plasma metabolite/lipid signatures that may be linked to operationally-relevant behavioral and cognitive performance. While certain brain region-specific and/or systemic alterations titrated in part with neurobiological outcome, variations across model systems, study design, and the conspicuous absence of targeted studies implementing combinations of spaceflight stressors, confounded the identification of specific signatures having direct relevance to human activities in space. Summaries are provided for formulating new research directives and more predictive readouts of portending change in neurobiological function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev I Desai
- Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Behavioral Biology Program, Belmont, MA 02478, USA.
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Irvine, Medical Sciences I, B146B, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Craig E L Stark
- Department of Neurobiology of Behavior, University of California Irvine, 1400 Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Shauna M Stark
- Department of Neurobiology of Behavior, University of California Irvine, 1400 Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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15
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Fais G, Manca A, Bolognesi F, Borselli M, Concas A, Busutti M, Broggi G, Sanna P, Castillo-Aleman YM, Rivero-Jiménez RA, Bencomo-Hernandez AA, Ventura-Carmenate Y, Altea M, Pantaleo A, Gabrielli G, Biglioli F, Cao G, Giannaccare G. Wide Range Applications of Spirulina: From Earth to Space Missions. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20050299. [PMID: 35621951 PMCID: PMC9143897 DOI: 10.3390/md20050299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spirulina is the most studied cyanobacterium species for both pharmacological applications and the food industry. The aim of the present review is to summarize the potential benefits of the use of Spirulina for improving healthcare both in space and on Earth. Regarding the first field of application, Spirulina could represent a new technology for the sustainment of long-duration manned missions to planets beyond the Lower Earth Orbit (e.g., Mars); furthermore, it could help astronauts stay healthy while exposed to a variety of stress factors that can have negative consequences even after years. As far as the second field of application, Spirulina could have an active role in various aspects of medicine, such as metabolism, oncology, ophthalmology, central and peripheral nervous systems, and nephrology. The recent findings of the capacity of Spirulina to improve stem cells mobility and to increase immune response have opened new intriguing scenarios in oncological and infectious diseases, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Fais
- Interdepartmental Centre of Environmental Science and Engineering (CINSA), University of Cagliari, Via San Giorgio 12, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.F.); (A.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Alessia Manca
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Federico Bolognesi
- Unit of Maxillofacial Surgery, Head and Neck Department, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, University of Milan, Via Antonio di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy; (F.B.); (F.B.)
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Borselli
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Grecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Concas
- Interdepartmental Centre of Environmental Science and Engineering (CINSA), University of Cagliari, Via San Giorgio 12, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.F.); (A.C.); (G.C.)
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Via Marengo 2, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Busutti
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Broggi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, University of Milan, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- Columbus Clinic Center, Via Michelangelo Buonarroti 48, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | - Pierdanilo Sanna
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misaha Street, Rowdhat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; (P.S.); (Y.M.C.-A.); (R.A.R.-J.); (A.A.B.-H.); (Y.V.-C.)
| | - Yandy Marx Castillo-Aleman
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misaha Street, Rowdhat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; (P.S.); (Y.M.C.-A.); (R.A.R.-J.); (A.A.B.-H.); (Y.V.-C.)
| | - René Antonio Rivero-Jiménez
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misaha Street, Rowdhat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; (P.S.); (Y.M.C.-A.); (R.A.R.-J.); (A.A.B.-H.); (Y.V.-C.)
| | - Antonio Alfonso Bencomo-Hernandez
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misaha Street, Rowdhat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; (P.S.); (Y.M.C.-A.); (R.A.R.-J.); (A.A.B.-H.); (Y.V.-C.)
| | - Yendry Ventura-Carmenate
- Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Al Misaha Street, Rowdhat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; (P.S.); (Y.M.C.-A.); (R.A.R.-J.); (A.A.B.-H.); (Y.V.-C.)
| | - Michela Altea
- TOLO Green, Via San Damiano 2, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.A.); (G.G.)
| | - Antonella Pantaleo
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.M.); (A.P.)
| | | | - Federico Biglioli
- Unit of Maxillofacial Surgery, Head and Neck Department, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo Hospital, University of Milan, Via Antonio di Rudinì 8, 20142 Milan, Italy; (F.B.); (F.B.)
| | - Giacomo Cao
- Interdepartmental Centre of Environmental Science and Engineering (CINSA), University of Cagliari, Via San Giorgio 12, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.F.); (A.C.); (G.C.)
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, Via Marengo 2, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
- Center for Advanced Studies, Research and Development in Sardinia (CRS4), Loc. Piscina Manna, Building 1, 09050 Pula, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Grecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3317186201
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16
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Ton ST, Laghi JR, Tsai SY, Blackwell AA, Adamczyk NS, Oltmanns JRO, Britten RA, Wallace DG, Kartje GL. Exposure to 5 cGy 28Si Particles Induces Long-Term Microglial Activation in the Striatum and Subventricular Zone and Concomitant Neurogenic Suppression. Radiat Res 2022; 198:28-39. [DOI: 10.1667/rade-21-00021.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The proposed mission to Mars will expose astronauts to space radiation that is known to adversely affect cognition and tasks that rely on fine sensorimotor function. Space radiation has also been shown to affect the microglial and neurogenic responses in the center nervous system (CNS). We recently reported that a low dose of 5 cGy 600 MeV/n 28Si results in impaired cognition and skilled motor behavior in adult rats. Since these tasks rely at least in part on the proper functioning of the striatum, we examined striatal microglial cells in these same subjects. Using morphometric analysis, we found that 28Si exposure increased activated microglial cells in the striatum. The majority of these striatal Iba1+ microglia were ED1–, indicating that they were in an alternatively activated state, where microglia do not have phagocytic activity but may be releasing cytokines that could negatively impact neuronal function. In the other areas studied, Iba1+ microglial cells were increased in the subventricular zone (SVZ), but not in the dentate gyrus (DG). Additionally, we examined the relationship between the microglial response and neurogenesis. An analysis of new neurons in the DG revealed an increase in doublecortin-positive (DCX+) hilar ectopic granule cells (hEGC) which correlated with Iba1+ cells, suggesting that microglial cells contributed to this aberrant distribution which may adversely affect hippocampal function. Taken together, these results indicate that a single dose of 28Si radiation results in persistent cellular effects in the CNS that may impact astronauts both in the short and long-term following deep space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Son T. Ton
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois
| | - Julia R. Laghi
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois
| | - Shih-Yen Tsai
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois
| | | | | | | | - Richard A. Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Douglas G. Wallace
- Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois
| | - Gwendolyn L. Kartje
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Division, Maywood, Illinois
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17
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Blackwell AA, Fesshaye A, Tidmore A, I Lake R, Wallace DG, Britten RA. Rapid loss of fine motor skills after low dose space radiation exposure. Behav Brain Res 2022; 430:113907. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.113907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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18
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Anatomic and metabolic alterations in the rodent frontal cortex caused by clinically relevant fractionated whole-brain irradiation. Neurochem Int 2022; 154:105293. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2022.105293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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19
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Long-Term Sex- and Genotype-Specific Effects of 56Fe Irradiation on Wild-Type and APPswe/PS1dE9 Transgenic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413305. [PMID: 34948098 PMCID: PMC8703695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Space radiation presents a substantial threat to travel beyond Earth. Relatively low doses of high-energy particle radiation cause physiological and behavioral impairments in rodents and may pose risks to human spaceflight. There is evidence that 56Fe irradiation, a significant component of space radiation, may be more harmful to males than to females and worsen Alzheimer's disease pathology in genetically vulnerable models. Yet, research on the long-term, sex- and genotype-specific effects of 56Fe irradiation is lacking. Here, we irradiated 4-month-old male and female, wild-type and Alzheimer's-like APP/PS1 mice with 0, 0.10, or 0.50 Gy of 56Fe ions (1GeV/u). Mice underwent microPET scans before and 7.5 months after irradiation, a battery of behavioral tests at 11 months of age and were sacrificed for pathological and biochemical analyses at 12 months of age. 56Fe irradiation worsened amyloid-beta (Aβ) pathology, gliosis, neuroinflammation and spatial memory, but improved motor coordination, in male transgenic mice and worsened fear memory in wild-type males. Although sham-irradiated female APP/PS1 mice had more cerebral Aβ and gliosis than sham-irradiated male transgenics, female mice of both genotypes were relatively spared from radiation effects 8 months later. These results provide evidence for sex-specific, long-term CNS effects of space radiation.
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20
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Strigari L, Strolin S, Morganti AG, Bartoloni A. Dose-Effects Models for Space Radiobiology: An Overview on Dose-Effect Relationships. Front Public Health 2021; 9:733337. [PMID: 34820349 PMCID: PMC8606590 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.733337] [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: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Space radiobiology is an interdisciplinary science that examines the biological effects of ionizing radiation on humans involved in aerospace missions. The dose-effect models are one of the relevant topics of space radiobiology. Their knowledge is crucial for optimizing radioprotection strategies (e.g., spaceship and lunar space station-shielding and lunar/Mars village design), the risk assessment of the health hazard related to human space exploration, and reducing damages induced to astronauts from galactic cosmic radiation. Dose-effect relationships describe the observed damages to normal tissues or cancer induction during and after space flights. They are developed for the various dose ranges and radiation qualities characterizing the actual and the forecast space missions [International Space Station (ISS) and solar system exploration]. Based on a Pubmed search including 53 papers reporting the collected dose-effect relationships after space missions or in ground simulations, 7 significant dose-effect relationships (e.g., eye flashes, cataract, central nervous systems, cardiovascular disease, cancer, chromosomal aberrations, and biomarkers) have been identified. For each considered effect, the absorbed dose thresholds and the uncertainties/limitations of the developed relationships are summarized and discussed. The current knowledge on this topic can benefit from further in vitro and in vivo radiobiological studies, an accurate characterization of the quality of space radiation, and the numerous experimental dose-effects data derived from the experience in the clinical use of ionizing radiation for diagnostic or treatments with doses similar to those foreseen for the future space missions. The growing number of pooled studies could improve the prediction ability of dose-effect relationships for space exposure and reduce their uncertainty level. Novel research in the field is of paramount importance to reduce damages to astronauts from cosmic radiation before Beyond Low Earth Orbit exploration in the next future. The study aims at providing an overview of the published dose-effect relationships and illustrates novel perspectives to inspire future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Strigari
- Department of Medical Physics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Strolin
- Department of Medical Physics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessio Giuseppe Morganti
- Radiation Oncology Center, School of Medicine, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine - DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Mhatre SD, Iyer J, Puukila S, Paul AM, Tahimic CGT, Rubinstein L, Lowe M, Alwood JS, Sowa MB, Bhattacharya S, Globus RK, Ronca AE. Neuro-consequences of the spaceflight environment. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 132:908-935. [PMID: 34767877 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As human space exploration advances to establish a permanent presence beyond the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with NASA's Artemis mission, researchers are striving to understand and address the health challenges of living and working in the spaceflight environment. Exposure to ionizing radiation, microgravity, isolation and other spaceflight hazards pose significant risks to astronauts. Determining neurobiological and neurobehavioral responses, understanding physiological responses under Central Nervous System (CNS) control, and identifying putative mechanisms to inform countermeasure development are critically important to ensuring brain and behavioral health of crew on long duration missions. Here we provide a detailed and comprehensive review of the effects of spaceflight and of ground-based spaceflight analogs, including simulated weightlessness, social isolation, and ionizing radiation on humans and animals. Further, we discuss dietary and non-dietary countermeasures including artificial gravity and antioxidants, among others. Significant future work is needed to ensure that neural, sensorimotor, cognitive and other physiological functions are maintained during extended deep space missions to avoid potentially catastrophic health and safety outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhita D Mhatre
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; KBR, Houston, TX, 77002, USA; COSMIAC Research Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Janani Iyer
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA
| | - Stephanie Puukila
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA; Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amber M Paul
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA
| | - Candice G T Tahimic
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; KBR, Houston, TX, 77002, USA; Department of Biology, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Linda Rubinstein
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA
| | - Moniece Lowe
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Seattle, WA, 98154, USA
| | - Joshua S Alwood
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - Marianne B Sowa
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - Sharmila Bhattacharya
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - Ruth K Globus
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - April E Ronca
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Wake Forest Medical School, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA.
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22
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Belyaeva AG, Kudrin VS, Koshlan IV, Koshlan NA, Isakova MD, Bogdanova YV, Timoshenko GN, Krasavin EA, Blokhina TM, Yashkina EI, Osipov AN, Nosovsky AN, Perevezentsev AA, Shtemberg AS. Effects of combined exposure to modeled radiation and gravitation factors of the interplanetary flight: Monkeys' cognitive functions and the content of monoamines and their metabolites; cytogenetic changes in peripheral blood lymphocytes. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2021; 30:45-54. [PMID: 34281664 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2021.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In a study on primates (Macaca mulatta), neurobiological and radiobiological effects have been studied of the synchronous combined action of 7-day antiorthostatic hypokinesia and exposure of the monkeys' head first to γ-rays during 24 h and then to accelerated 12C ions. The neurobiological effects were evaluated by the cognitive functions which model the basic elements of operator activity and the concentration of monoamines and their metabolites in peripheral blood. The radiobiological effects were evaluated by the chromosomal aberration and DNA double-strand break (DSB) yield in peripheral blood lymphocytes. The results of the cognitive function research show that the typological features of the animals' higher nervous activity are the prevailing factor that determines changes in these functions. The monkey of the strong balanced type effectively retained its cognitive functions after the exposures, while in the weak unbalanced type animals these functions were impaired. These changes went along with a decrease in the concentration of monoamines and their metabolites and an increase in the DNA DSB and chromosomal aberration yield in lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra G Belyaeva
- Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 123007, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Vladimir S Kudrin
- Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 123007, Moscow, Russian Federation; Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology, 125315, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Igor V Koshlan
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research 141980, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation; Dubna State University, 141982, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation.
| | - Nataliya A Koshlan
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research 141980, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation.
| | - Mariya D Isakova
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research 141980, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation; Dubna State University, 141982, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation.
| | - Yulia V Bogdanova
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research 141980, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation.
| | - Gennady N Timoshenko
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research 141980, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation; Dubna State University, 141982, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation.
| | - Evgeny A Krasavin
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research 141980, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation; Dubna State University, 141982, Dubna, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation.
| | - Taisia M Blokhina
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency (SRC-FMBC), 123098, Moscow, Russian Federation; Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation; School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, Russian Federation.
| | - Elizaveta I Yashkina
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency (SRC-FMBC), 123098, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Andreyan N Osipov
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency (SRC-FMBC), 123098, Moscow, Russian Federation; Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation; School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, Russian Federation.
| | - Andrey N Nosovsky
- Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 123007, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Alexandr A Perevezentsev
- Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 123007, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - Andrey S Shtemberg
- Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS), 123007, Moscow, Russian Federation.
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Desai RI, Kangas BD, Limoli CL. Nonhuman primate models in the study of spaceflight stressors: Past contributions and future directions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2021; 30:9-23. [PMID: 34281669 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Studies in rodents suggest that exposure to distinct spaceflight stressors (e.g., space radiation, isolation/confinement, microgravity) may have a profound impact on an astronaut's ability to perform both simple and complex tasks related to neurocognitive performance, central nervous system (CNS) and vestibular/sensorimotor function. However, limited information is currently available on how combined exposure to the spaceflight stressors will impact CNS-related neurocognitive and neurobiological function in-flight and, as well, terrestrial risk of manifesting neurodegenerative conditions when astronauts return to earth. This information gap has significantly hindered our ability to realistically estimate spaceflight hazard risk to the CNS associated with deep space exploration. Notwithstanding a significant body of work with rodents, there have been very few direct investigations of the impact of these spaceflight stressors in combination and, to our knowledge, no such investigations using nonhuman primate (NHP) animal models. In view of the widely-recognized translational value of NHP data in advancing biomedical discoveries, this research deficiency limits our understanding regarding the impact of individual and combined spaceflight stressors on CNS-related neurobiological function. In this review, we address this knowledge gap by conducting a systematic and comprehensive evaluation of existing research on the impact of exposure to spaceflight stressors on NHP CNS-related function. This review is structured to: a) provide an overarching view of the past contributions of NHPs to spaceflight research as well as the strengths, limitations, and translational value of NHP research in its own right and within the existing context of NASA-relevant rodent research; b) highlight specific conclusions based on the published literature and areas needed for future endeavors; c) describe critical research gaps and priorities in NHP research to facilitate NASA's efforts to bridge the key knowledge gaps that currently exist in translating rodent data to humans; and d) provide a roadmap of recommendations for NASA regarding the availability, validity, strengths, and limitations of various NHP models for future targeted research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev I Desai
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Brian D Kangas
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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24
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Tidmore A, Dutta SM, Fesshaye AS, Russell WK, Duncan VD, Britten RA. Space Radiation-Induced Alterations in the Hippocampal Ubiquitin-Proteome System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147713. [PMID: 34299332 PMCID: PMC8304141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure of rodents to <20 cGy Space Radiation (SR) impairs performance in several hippocampus-dependent cognitive tasks, including spatial memory. However, there is considerable inter-individual susceptibility to develop SR-induced spatial memory impairment. In this study, a robust label-free mass spectrometry (MS)-based unbiased proteomic profiling approach was used to characterize the composition of the hippocampal proteome in adult male Wistar rats exposed to 15 cGy of 1 GeV/n 48Ti and their sham counterparts. Unique protein signatures were identified in the hippocampal proteome of: (1) sham rats, (2) Ti-exposed rats, (3) Ti-exposed rats that had sham-like spatial memory performance, and (4) Ti-exposed rats that impaired spatial memory performance. Approximately 14% (159) of the proteins detected in hippocampal proteome of sham rats were not detected in the Ti-exposed rats. We explored the possibility that the loss of the Sham-only proteins may arise as a result of SR-induced changes in protein homeostasis. SR-exposure was associated with a switch towards increased pro-ubiquitination proteins from that seen in Sham. These data suggest that the role of the ubiquitin-proteome system as a determinant of SR-induced neurocognitive deficits needs to be more thoroughly investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Tidmore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 W. Olney Rd., Lewis Hall, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.T.); (A.S.F.); (V.D.D.)
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology; Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
- Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Research Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
- Center for Integrative Neuroinflammatory and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
| | - Sucharita M. Dutta
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology; Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
- Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Research Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
| | - Arriyam S. Fesshaye
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 W. Olney Rd., Lewis Hall, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.T.); (A.S.F.); (V.D.D.)
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology; Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
- Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Research Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
- Center for Integrative Neuroinflammatory and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
| | - William K. Russell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA;
| | - Vania D. Duncan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 W. Olney Rd., Lewis Hall, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.T.); (A.S.F.); (V.D.D.)
| | - Richard A. Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 700 W. Olney Rd., Lewis Hall, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA; (A.T.); (A.S.F.); (V.D.D.)
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology; Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
- Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Research Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
- Center for Integrative Neuroinflammatory and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
- Correspondence:
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Chu C, Gao Y, Lan X, Lin J, Thomas AM, Li S. Stem-Cell Therapy as a Potential Strategy for Radiation-Induced Brain Injury. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 16:639-649. [PMID: 32418118 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-09984-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Radiation therapy is a standard and effective non-surgical treatment for primary brain tumors and metastases. However, this strategy inevitably results in damage of normal brain tissue, causing severe complications, especially the late-delayed cognitive impairment. Due to the multifactorial and complex pathological effects of radiation, there is a lack of effective preventative and restorative treatments for the irradiated brain. Stem-cell therapy has held considerable promise for decades in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders because of its unique capacity for tissue repair and functional integrity. Currently, there is growing interest in using stem cells as a novel option to attenuate the adverse effects of irradiation. In the present review, we discuss recent studies evaluating stem-cell therapies for the irradiated brain and their therapeutic effects on ameliorating radiation-related brain injury as well as their potential challenges in clinical applications. We discuss these works in context of the pathogenesis of radiation-induced injury to CNS tissue in an attempt to elucidate the potential mechanisms of engrafted stem cells to reverse radiation-induced degenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyan Chu
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Affiliated with Dalian Medical University, No. 826 Xinan Road, Shahekou District Dalian, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Affiliated with Dalian Medical University, No. 826 Xinan Road, Shahekou District Dalian, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China
| | - Xiaoyan Lan
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Affiliated with Dalian Medical University, No. 826 Xinan Road, Shahekou District Dalian, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China
| | - Jianwen Lin
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Affiliated with Dalian Medical University, No. 826 Xinan Road, Shahekou District Dalian, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China
| | - Aline M Thomas
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shen Li
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Affiliated with Dalian Medical University, No. 826 Xinan Road, Shahekou District Dalian, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China.
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26
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Chronic Low Dose Neutron Exposure Results in Altered Neurotransmission Properties of the Hippocampus-Prefrontal Cortex Axis in Both Mice and Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073668. [PMID: 33915974 PMCID: PMC8036585 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The proposed deep space exploration to the moon and later to Mars will result in astronauts receiving significant chronic exposures to space radiation (SR). SR exposure results in multiple neurocognitive impairments. Recently, our cross-species (mouse/rat) studies reported impaired associative memory formation in both species following a chronic 6-month low dose exposure to a mixed field of neutrons (1 mGy/day for a total dose pf 18 cGy). In the present study, we report neutron exposure induced synaptic plasticity in the medial prefrontal cortex, accompanied by microglial activation and significant synaptic loss in the hippocampus. In a parallel study, neutron exposure was also found to alter fluorescence assisted single synaptosome LTP (FASS-LTP) in the hippocampus of rats, that may be related to a reduced ability to insert AMPAR into the post-synaptic membrane, which may arise from increased phosphorylation of the serine 845 residue of the GluA1 subunit. Thus, we demonstrate for the first time, that low dose chronic neutron irradiation impacts homeostatic synaptic plasticity in the hippocampal-cortical circuit in two rodent species, and that the ability to successfully encode associative recognition memory is a dynamic, multicircuit process, possibly involving compensatory changes in AMPAR density on the synaptic surface.
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27
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Britten RA, Wellman LL, Sanford LD. Progressive increase in the complexity and translatability of rodent testing to assess space-radiation induced cognitive impairment. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:159-174. [PMID: 33766676 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ground-based rodent models have established that space radiation doses (approximately those that astronauts will be exposed to on a mission to Mars) significantly impair performance in a wide range of cognitive tasks. Over the last 40 years there has been a progressive increase in both the complexity and the translatability (to humans) of the cognitive tasks investigated. This review outlines technical and conceptual advances in space radiation rodent testing approaches, along with the advances in analytical approaches, that will make data from ground based studies more amenable to probabilistic risk analysis. While great progress has been made in determining the impact of space radiation on many advanced cognitive processes, challenges remain that need to be addressed prior to commencing deep space missions. A summary of on-going attempts to address existing knowledge gaps and the critical role that rodent studies will have in establishing the impact of space radiation on even more complex (human) cognitive tasks are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA; Leroy T Canoles Jr. Cancer Center, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA.
| | - Laurie L Wellman
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA; Department of Pathology & Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA
| | - Larry D Sanford
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA; Department of Pathology & Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, USA
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28
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Keiser AA, Kramár EA, Dong T, Shanur S, Pirodan M, Ru N, Acharya MM, Baulch JE, Limoli CL, Wood MA. Systemic HDAC3 inhibition ameliorates impairments in synaptic plasticity caused by simulated galactic cosmic radiation exposure in male mice. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 178:107367. [PMID: 33359392 PMCID: PMC8456980 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2020.107367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Deep space travel presents a number of measurable risks including exposure to a spectrum of radiations of varying qualities, termed galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) that are capable of penetrating the spacecraft, traversing through the body and impacting brain function. Using rodents, studies have reported that exposure to simulated GCR leads to cognitive impairments associated with changes in hippocampus function that can persist as long as one-year post exposure with no sign of recovery. Whether memory can be updated to incorporate new information in mice exposed to GCR is unknown. Further, mechanisms underlying long lasting impairments in cognitive function as a result of GCR exposure have yet to be defined. Here, we examined whether whole body exposure to simulated GCR using 6 ions and doses of 5 or 30 cGy interfered with the ability to update an existing memory or impact hippocampal synaptic plasticity, a cellular mechanism believed to underlie memory processes, by examining long term potentiation (LTP) in acute hippocampal slices from middle aged male mice 3.5-5 months after radiation exposure. Using a modified version of the hippocampus-dependent object location memory task developed by our lab termed "Objects in Updated Locations" (OUL) task we find that GCR exposure impaired hippocampus-dependent memory updating and hippocampal LTP 3.5-5 months after exposure. Further, we find that impairments in LTP are reversed through one-time systemic subcutaneous injection of the histone deacetylase 3 inhibitor RGFP 966 (10 mg/kg), suggesting that long lasting impairments in cognitive function may be mediated at least in part, through epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Keiser
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - E A Kramár
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - T Dong
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - S Shanur
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - M Pirodan
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - N Ru
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - M M Acharya
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - J E Baulch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States
| | - C L Limoli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States.
| | - M A Wood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biological Sciences University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (CNLM), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND), University of California, Irvine 92697-2695, United States.
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29
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Willey JS, Britten RA, Blaber E, Tahimic CG, Chancellor J, Mortreux M, Sanford LD, Kubik AJ, Delp MD, Mao XW. The individual and combined effects of spaceflight radiation and microgravity on biologic systems and functional outcomes. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, TOXICOLOGY AND CARCINOGENESIS 2021; 39:129-179. [PMID: 33902391 PMCID: PMC8274610 DOI: 10.1080/26896583.2021.1885283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Both microgravity and radiation exposure in the spaceflight environment have been identified as hazards to astronaut health and performance. Substantial study has been focused on understanding the biology and risks associated with prolonged exposure to microgravity, and the hazards presented by radiation from galactic cosmic rays (GCR) and solar particle events (SPEs) outside of low earth orbit (LEO). To date, the majority of the ground-based analogues (e.g., rodent or cell culture studies) that investigate the biology of and risks associated with spaceflight hazards will focus on an individual hazard in isolation. However, astronauts will face these challenges simultaneously Combined hazard studies are necessary for understanding the risks astronauts face as they travel outside of LEO, and are also critical for countermeasure development. The focus of this review is to describe biologic and functional outcomes from ground-based analogue models for microgravity and radiation, specifically highlighting the combined effects of radiation and reduced weight-bearing from rodent ground-based tail suspension via hind limb unloading (HLU) and partial weight-bearing (PWB) models, although in vitro and spaceflight results are discussed as appropriate. The review focuses on the skeletal, ocular, central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular, and stem cells responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Blaber
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
| | | | | | - Marie Mortreux
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
| | - Larry D. Sanford
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School
| | - Angela J. Kubik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
| | - Michael D. Delp
- Department of Nutrition, Food and Exercise Sciences, Florida State University
| | - Xiao Wen Mao
- Division of Biomedical Engineering Sciences (BMES), Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University
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30
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Britten RA, Fesshaye AS, Duncan VD, Wellman LL, Sanford LD. Sleep Fragmentation Exacerbates Executive Function Impairments Induced by Low Doses of Si Ions. Radiat Res 2020; 194:116-123. [PMID: 32845991 DOI: 10.1667/rade-20-00080.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Astronauts on deep space missions will be required to work autonomously and thus their ability to perform executive functions could be critical to mission success. Ground-based rodent experiments have shown that low (<25 cGy) doses of several space radiation (SR) ions impair various aspects of executive function. Translating ground-based rodent studies into tangible risk estimates for astronauts remains an enormous challenge, but should similar neurocognitive impairments occur in astronauts exposed to low-SR doses, a Numbers-Needed-to-Harm analysis (of the rodent data) predicts that approximately 30% of the astronauts could develop severe cognitive flexibility decrements. In addition to the health risks associated with SR exposure, astronauts have to contend with other stressors, of which inadequate sleep quantity and quality are considered to be major concerns. We have shown that a single session of fragmented sleep uncovered latent attentional set-shifting (ATSET) performance deficits in rats exposed to protracted neutron radiation that had no obvious defects in performance under rested wakefulness conditions. It is unclear if the exacerbating effect of sleep fragmentation (SF) only occurs in rats receiving protracted low-dose-rate-neutron radiation. In this study, we assessed whether SF also unmasks latent ATSET deficits in rats exposed to 5 cGy 600 MeV/n 28Si ions. Only sham and Si-irradiated rats that had good ATSET performance (passing every stage of the test on their first attempt) were selected for study. Sleep fragmentation selectively impaired performance in the more complex IDR, EDS and EDR stages of the ATSET test in the Si-irradiated rats. Set-shifting performance has rarely been affected by SR exposure in our studies conducted with rats tested under rested wakefulness conditions. The consistent SF-related unmasking of latent set-shifting deficits in both Si- and neutron-irradiated rats suggests that there is a unique interaction between sleep fragmentation and space radiation on the functionality of the brain regions that regulate performance in the IDR, EDS and EDR stages of ATSET. The uncovering of these latent SR-induced ATSET performance deficits in both Si- and neutron-irradiated rats suggests that the true impact of SR-induced cognitive impairment may not be fully evident in normally rested rats, and thus cognitive testing needs to be conducted under both rested wakefulness and sleep fragmentation conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Britten
- Departments of a Radiation Oncology.,Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology.,Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases.,Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Center
| | | | | | - Laurie L Wellman
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases.,Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
| | - Larry D Sanford
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases.,Department of Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
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31
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Blackwell AA, Schell BD, Osterlund Oltmanns JR, Whishaw IQ, Ton ST, Adamczyk NS, Kartje GL, Britten RA, Wallace DG. Skilled movement and posture deficits in rat string-pulling behavior following low dose space radiation ( 28Si) exposure. Behav Brain Res 2020; 400:113010. [PMID: 33181183 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.113010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Deep space flight missions beyond the Van Allen belt have the potential to expose astronauts to space radiation which may damage the central nervous system and impair function. The proposed mission to Mars will be the longest mission-to-date and identifying mission critical tasks that are sensitive to space radiation is important for developing and evaluating the efficacy of counter measures. Fine motor control has been assessed in humans, rats, and many other species using string-pulling behavior. For example, focal cortical damage has been previously shown to disrupt the topographic (i.e., path circuity) and kinematic (i.e., moment-to-moment speed) organization of rat string-pulling behavior count to compromise task accuracy. In the current study, rats were exposed to a ground-based model of simulated space radiation (5 cGy 28Silicon), and string-pulling behavior was used to assess fine motor control. Irradiated rats initially took longer to pull an unweighted string into a cage, exhibited impaired accuracy in grasping the string, and displayed postural deficits. Once rats were switched to a weighted string, some deficits lessened but postural instability remained. These results demonstrate that a single exposure to a low dose of space radiation disrupts skilled hand movements and posture, suggestive of neural impairment. This work establishes a foundation for future studies to investigate the neural structures and circuits involved in fine motor control and to examine the effectiveness of counter measures to attenuate the effects of space radiation on fine motor control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley A Blackwell
- Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States.
| | - Brandi D Schell
- Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
| | | | - Ian Q Whishaw
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Son T Ton
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, 60141, United States; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, 60153, United States
| | - Natalie S Adamczyk
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, 60141, United States
| | - Gwendolyn L Kartje
- Research Service, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, 60141, United States; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, 60153, United States
| | - Richard A Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, 23507, United States
| | - Douglas G Wallace
- Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
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32
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Pariset E, Malkani S, Cekanaviciute E, Costes SV. Ionizing radiation-induced risks to the central nervous system and countermeasures in cellular and rodent models. Int J Radiat Biol 2020; 97:S132-S150. [PMID: 32946305 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2020.1820598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Harmful effects of ionizing radiation on the Central Nervous System (CNS) are a concerning outcome in the field of cancer radiotherapy and form a major risk for deep space exploration. Both acute and chronic CNS irradiation induce a complex network of molecular and cellular alterations including DNA damage, oxidative stress, cell death and systemic inflammation, leading to changes in neuronal structure and synaptic plasticity with behavioral and cognitive consequences in animal models. Due to this complexity, countermeasure or therapeutic approaches to reduce the harmful effects of ionizing radiation include a wide range of protective and mitigative strategies, which merit a thorough comparative analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed current approaches for developing countermeasures to both targeted and non-targeted effects of ionizing radiation on the CNS from the molecular and cellular to the behavioral level. RESULTS We focus on countermeasures that aim to mitigate the four main detrimental actions of radiation on CNS: DNA damage, free radical formation and oxidative stress, cell death, and harmful systemic responses including tissue death and neuroinflammation. We propose a comprehensive review of CNS radiation countermeasures reported for the full range of irradiation types (photons and particles, low and high linear energy transfer) and doses (from a fraction of gray to several tens of gray, fractionated and unfractionated), with a particular interest for exposure conditions relevant to deep-space environment and radiotherapy. Our review reveals the importance of combined strategies that increase DNA protection and repair, reduce free radical formation and increase their elimination, limit inflammation and improve cell viability, limit tissue damage and increase repair and plasticity. CONCLUSIONS The majority of therapeutic approaches to protect the CNS from ionizing radiation have been limited to acute high dose and high dose rate gamma irradiation, and few are translatable from animal models to potential human application due to harmful side effects and lack of blood-brain barrier permeability that precludes peripheral administration. Therefore, a promising research direction would be to focus on practical applicability and effectiveness in a wider range of irradiation paradigms, from fractionated therapeutic to deep space radiation. In addition to discovering novel therapeutics, it would be worth maximizing the benefits and reducing side effects of those that already exist. Finally, we suggest that novel cellular and tissue models for developing and testing countermeasures in the context of other impairments might also be applied to the field of CNS responses to ionizing radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise Pariset
- Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, USA.,Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, USA
| | - Sherina Malkani
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, USA.,Young Scientist Program, Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Moffett Field, CA, USA
| | - Egle Cekanaviciute
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, USA
| | - Sylvain V Costes
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, USA
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33
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Andrews RN, Bloomer EG, Olson JD, Hanbury DB, Dugan GO, Whitlow CT, Cline JM. Non-Human Primates Receiving High-Dose Total-Body Irradiation are at Risk of Developing Cerebrovascular Injury Years Postirradiation. Radiat Res 2020; 194:277-287. [PMID: 32942304 PMCID: PMC7583660 DOI: 10.1667/rade-20-00051.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear accidents and acts of terrorism have the potential to expose thousands of people to high-dose total-body iradiation (TBI). Those who survive the acute radiation syndrome are at risk of developing chronic, degenerative radiation-induced injuries [delayed effects of acute radiation (DEARE)] that may negatively affect quality of life. A growing body of literature suggests that the brain may be vulnerable to radiation injury at survivable doses, yet the long-term consequences of high-dose TBI on the adult brain are unclear. Herein we report the occurrence of lesions consistent with cerebrovascular injury, detected by susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in a cohort of non-human primate [(NHP); rhesus macaque, Macaca mulatta] long-term survivors of high-dose TBI (1.1-8.5 Gy). Animals were monitored longitudinally with brain MRI (approximately once every three years). Susceptibility-weighted images (SWI) were reviewed for hypointensities (cerebral microbleeds and/or focal necrosis). SWI hypointensities were noted in 13% of irradiated NHP; lesions were not observed in control animals. A prior history of exposure was correlated with an increased risk of developing a lesion detectable by MRI (P = 0.003). Twelve of 16 animals had at least one brain lesion present at the time of the first MRI evaluation; a subset of animals (n = 7) developed new lesions during the surveillance period (3.7-11.3 years postirradiation). Lesions occurred with a predilection for white matter and the gray-white matter junction. The majority of animals with lesions had one to three SWI hypointensities, but some animals had multifocal disease (n = 2). Histopathologic evaluation of deceased animals within the cohort (n = 3) revealed malformation of the cerebral vasculature and remodeling of the blood vessel walls. There was no association between comorbid diabetes mellitus or hypertension with SWI lesion status. These data suggest that long-term TBI survivors may be at risk of developing cerebrovascular injury years after irradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel N. Andrews
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Section of Radiation Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Department of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Department of Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Ethan G. Bloomer
- University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, Florida 32608
| | - John D. Olson
- Department of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - David B. Hanbury
- Department of Psychology, Averett University, Danville, Virginia 24541
| | - Gregory O. Dugan
- Department of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Christopher T. Whitlow
- Department of Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Department of Radiology, Section of Neuroradiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - J. Mark Cline
- Department of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
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34
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Britten RA, Duncan VD, Fesshaye A, Rudobeck E, Nelson GA, Vlkolinsky R. Altered Cognitive Flexibility and Synaptic Plasticity in the Rat Prefrontal Cortex after Exposure to Low (≤15 cGy) Doses of 28Si Radiation. Radiat Res 2020; 193:223-235. [DOI: 10.1667/rr15458.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Emil Rudobeck
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, 92354
| | - Gregory A. Nelson
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, 92354
| | - Roman Vlkolinsky
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, 92354
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35
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Chew MT, Nisbet A, Jones B, Suzuki M, Matsufuji N, Murakami T, Bradley DA. Ion beams for space radiation radiobiological effect studies. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2019.108373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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36
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Lebedeva-Georgievskaya KB, Kokhan VS, Shurtakova AK, Perevezentsev AA, Kudrin VS, Shtemberg AS, Bazyan AS. The Neurobiological Effects of the Combined Impact of Anti-Orthostatic Hanging and Different Ionizing Irradiations. NEUROCHEM J+ 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712419030103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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37
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Kokhan VS, Anokhin PK, Belov OV, Gulyaev MV. Cortical Glutamate/GABA Imbalance after Combined Radiation Exposure: Relevance to Human Deep-Space Missions. Neuroscience 2019; 416:295-308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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38
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Acharya MM, Baulch JE, Klein PM, Baddour AAD, Apodaca LA, Kramár EA, Alikhani L, Garcia C, Angulo MC, Batra RS, Fallgren CM, Borak TB, Stark CEL, Wood MA, Britten RA, Soltesz I, Limoli CL. New Concerns for Neurocognitive Function during Deep Space Exposures to Chronic, Low Dose-Rate, Neutron Radiation. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0094-19.2019. [PMID: 31383727 PMCID: PMC6709229 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0094-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As NASA prepares for a mission to Mars, concerns regarding the health risks associated with deep space radiation exposure have emerged. Until now, the impacts of such exposures have only been studied in animals after acute exposures, using dose rates ∼1.5×105 higher than those actually encountered in space. Using a new, low dose-rate neutron irradiation facility, we have uncovered that realistic, low dose-rate exposures produce serious neurocognitive complications associated with impaired neurotransmission. Chronic (6 month) low-dose (18 cGy) and dose rate (1 mGy/d) exposures of mice to a mixed field of neutrons and photons result in diminished hippocampal neuronal excitability and disrupted hippocampal and cortical long-term potentiation. Furthermore, mice displayed severe impairments in learning and memory, and the emergence of distress behaviors. Behavioral analyses showed an alarming increase in risk associated with these realistic simulations, revealing for the first time, some unexpected potential problems associated with deep space travel on all levels of neurological function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munjal M Acharya
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Janet E Baulch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Peter M Klein
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, California 94305
| | - Al Anoud D Baddour
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Lauren A Apodaca
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Eniko A Kramár
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Leila Alikhani
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Camillo Garcia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Maria C Angulo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Raja S Batra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Christine M Fallgren
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523
| | - Thomas B Borak
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523
| | - Craig E L Stark
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Marcello A Wood
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Richard A Britten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23507
| | - Ivan Soltesz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, California 94305
| | - Charles L Limoli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
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39
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Liu B, Hinshaw RG, Le KX, Park MA, Wang S, Belanger AP, Dubey S, Frost JL, Shi Q, Holton P, Trojanczyk L, Reiser V, Jones PA, Trigg W, Di Carli MF, Lorello P, Caldarone BJ, Williams JP, O'Banion MK, Lemere CA. Space-like 56Fe irradiation manifests mild, early sex-specific behavioral and neuropathological changes in wildtype and Alzheimer's-like transgenic mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12118. [PMID: 31431669 PMCID: PMC6702228 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48615-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Space travel will expose people to high-energy, heavy particle radiation, and the cognitive deficits induced by this exposure are not well understood. To investigate the short-term effects of space radiation, we irradiated 4-month-old Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-like transgenic (Tg) mice and wildtype (WT) littermates with a single, whole-body dose of 10 or 50 cGy 56Fe ions (1 GeV/u) at Brookhaven National Laboratory. At ~1.5 months post irradiation, behavioural testing showed sex-, genotype-, and dose-dependent changes in locomotor activity, contextual fear conditioning, grip strength, and motor learning, mainly in Tg but not WT mice. There was little change in general health, depression, or anxiety. Two months post irradiation, microPET imaging of the stable binding of a translocator protein ligand suggested no radiation-specific change in neuroinflammation, although initial uptake was reduced in female mice independently of cerebral blood flow. Biochemical and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that radiation reduced cerebral amyloid-β levels and microglia activation in female Tg mice, modestly increased microhemorrhages in 50 cGy irradiated male WT mice, and did not affect synaptic marker levels compared to sham controls. Taken together, we show specific short-term changes in neuropathology and behaviour induced by 56Fe irradiation, possibly having implications for long-term space travel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Robert G Hinshaw
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Kevin X Le
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Mi-Ae Park
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Shuyan Wang
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Anthony P Belanger
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Shipra Dubey
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Frost
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Qiaoqiao Shi
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Peter Holton
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Lee Trojanczyk
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | | | - Paul A Jones
- GE Healthcare, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4SP, United Kingdom
| | - William Trigg
- GE Healthcare, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4SP, United Kingdom
| | - Marcelo F Di Carli
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Paul Lorello
- Harvard Medical School Mouse Behavior Core, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline P Williams
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - M Kerry O'Banion
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Cynthia A Lemere
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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40
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Estimation of the spatial energy deposition in CA1 pyramidal neurons under exposure to 12C and 56Fe ion beams. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrras.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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41
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Kiffer F, Boerma M, Allen A. Behavioral effects of space radiation: A comprehensive review of animal studies. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2019; 21:1-21. [PMID: 31101151 PMCID: PMC7150604 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
As NASA prepares for the first manned mission to Mars in the next 20 years, close attention has been placed on the cognitive welfare of astronauts, who will likely endure extended durations in confinement and microgravity and be subjected to the radioactive charged particles travelling at relativistic speeds in interplanetary space. The future of long-duration manned spaceflight, thus, depends on understanding the individual hazards associated with the environment beyond Earth's protective magnetosphere. Ground-based single-particle studies of exposed mice and rats have, in the last 30 years, overwhelmingly reported deficits in their cognitive behaviors. However, as particle-accelerator technologies at NASA's Space Radiation Laboratory continue to progress, more realistic representations of space radiation are materializing, including multiple-particle exposures and, eventually, at multiple energy distributions. These advancements help determine how to best mitigate possible hazards due to space radiation. However, risk models will depend on delineating which particles are most responsible for specific behavioral outcomes and whether multiple-particle exposures produce synergistic effects. Here, we review the literature on animal exposures by particle, energy, and behavioral assay to inform future mixed-field radiation studies of possible behavioral outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederico Kiffer
- Division of Radiation Health, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.
| | - Marjan Boerma
- Division of Radiation Health, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.
| | - Antiño Allen
- Division of Radiation Health, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Department of Neurobiology & Developmental Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.
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42
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Bálentová S, Hnilicová P, Kalenská D, Baranovičová E, Muríň P, Bittšanský M, Hajtmanová E, Lehotský J, Adamkov M. Metabolic and histopathological changes in the brain and plasma of rats exposed to fractionated whole-brain irradiation. Brain Res 2019; 1708:146-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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43
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Batova AS, Bugay AN, Dushanov EB. Effect of mutant NMDA receptors on the oscillations in a model of hippocampus. J Bioinform Comput Biol 2019; 17:1940003. [PMID: 30866729 DOI: 10.1142/s0219720019400031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
A computation approach to identify the effect of missense mutations on the protein function is proposed. Using molecular dynamics simulation we have analyzed the gating kinetics of mutant NMDA synaptic receptors carrying mutations in their NR2 subunits. Analysis of channel geometry and Mg ion binding allowed to estimate the receptor conductivity. As a result, it was possible to identify the effect of these mutations on the generation of theta and gamma rhythms by the hippocampal neural network. Obtained results can be adapted for the analysis and evaluation of possible cognitive impairments caused by neurological diseases or consequences of radiation and other negative factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sergeevna Batova
- * Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Joliot-Curie 6, Dubna 141980, Moscow, Russia.,† Dubna State University, Universitetskaya St. 19, Dubna 141982, Moscow, Russia
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44
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Andrews RN, Dugan GO, Peiffer AM, Hawkins GA, Hanbury DB, Bourland JD, Hampson RE, Deadwyler SA, Cline JM. White Matter is the Predilection Site of Late-Delayed Radiation-Induced Brain Injury in Non-Human Primates. Radiat Res 2019; 191:217-231. [PMID: 30694733 PMCID: PMC6422025 DOI: 10.1667/rr15263.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fractionated whole-brain irradiation for the treatment of intracranial neoplasia causes progressive neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. The long-term consequences of single-fraction high-dose irradiation to the brain are unknown. To assess the late effects of brain irradiation we compared transcriptomic gene expression profiles from nonhuman primates (NHP; rhesus macaques Macaca mulatta) receiving single-fraction total-body irradiation (TBI; n = 5, 6.75-8.05 Gy, 6-9 years prior to necropsy) to those receiving fractionated whole-brain irradiation (fWBI; n = 5, 40 Gy, 8 × 5 Gy fractions; 12 months prior to necropsy) and control comparators (n = 5). Gene expression profiles from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), hippocampus (HC) and deep white matter (WM; centrum semiovale) were compared. Stratified analyses by treatment and region revealed that radiation-induced transcriptomic alterations were most prominent in animals receiving fWBI, and primarily affected white matter in both TBI and fWBI groups. Unsupervised canonical and ontologic analysis revealed that TBI or fWBI animals demonstrated shared patterns of injury, including white matter neuroinflammation, increased expression of complement factors and T-cell activation. Both irradiated groups also showed evidence of impaired glutamatergic neurotransmission and signal transduction within white matter, but not within the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex or hippocampus. Signaling pathways and structural elements involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling were noted within the white matter of animals receiving fWBI, but not of those receiving TBI. These findings indicate that those animals receiving TBI are susceptible to neurological injury similar to that observed after fWBI, and these changes persist for years postirradiation. Transcriptomic profiling reaffirmed that macrophage/microglial-mediated neuroinflammation is present in radiation-induced brain injury (RIBI), and our data provide novel evidence that the complement system may contribute to the pathogenesis of RIBI. Finally, these data challenge the assumption that the hippocampus is the predilection site of injury in RIBI, and indicate that impaired glutamatergic neurotransmission may occur in white matter injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel N. Andrews
- Departments of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Gregory O. Dugan
- Departments of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Ann M. Peiffer
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Departments of Brain Tumor Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Gregory A. Hawkins
- Departments of Biochemistry, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Departments of Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - David B. Hanbury
- Department of Psychology, Averett University, Danville, Virginia 24541
| | - J. Daniel Bourland
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Departments of Brain Tumor Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Robert E. Hampson
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Samuel A. Deadwyler
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - J. Mark Cline
- Departments of Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
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45
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Batmunkh M, Aksenova SV, Bayarchimeg L, Bugay AN, Lkhagva O. Optimized neuron models for estimation of charged particle energy deposition in hippocampus. Phys Med 2019; 57:88-94. [PMID: 30738537 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of evaluating radiation risk on the central nervous system induced by space-born charged particles is very complex and challenging task in space radiobiology and radiation protection. To overcome computational difficulties in this field, we developed simplified neuron models with properties equivalent to realistic neuron morphology. Three-dimensional structure and parameters of simplified and complex neuron models with realistic morphology were obtained from the experimental data. The models implement uniform random distribution of spines along the dendritic branches in typical hippocampal neurons. Both types of models were implemented and tested using Geant4 Monte Carlo radiation transport code. Track structure simulations were performed for ion beams with typical fluxes of galactic cosmic rays expected for long-term interplanetary missions. The distribution of energy deposition events and percentage of irradiated volumes were obtained to be similar in both simplified and realistic models of pyramidal and granule cells of the rat hippocampus following irradiation. Significant increase of computational efficiency for detailed microdosimetry simulations of hippocampus using simplified neuron models was achieved. Using designed neuron models we have constructed 3D model of the rat hippocampus, including pyramidal cells, mature and immature granular cells, mossy cells, and neural stem cells. Computed energy deposition in irradiated hippocampal neurons following a track of iron ion suggests that most of energy is accumulated by dense population of granular cells in the dentate gyrus. Proposed approach could serve as a complementary computation technique for studying radiation-induced effects in large scale brain networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munkhbaatar Batmunkh
- Laboratory of Radiation Biology, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia.
| | - Svetlana V Aksenova
- Laboratory of Radiation Biology, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia.
| | - Lkhagvaa Bayarchimeg
- Laboratory of Radiation Biology, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia.
| | - Aleksandr N Bugay
- Laboratory of Radiation Biology, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna 141980, Russia.
| | - Oidov Lkhagva
- Division of Natural Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar 210646, Mongolia.
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Batmunkh M, Bayarchimeg L, Bugay AN, Lkhagva O. Monte Carlo track structure simulation in studies of biological effects induced by accelerated charged particles in the central nervous system. EPJ WEB OF CONFERENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/201920404008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simulating the biological damage induced by charged particles trajectories (tracks) in the central nervous system (CNS) at different levels of its organization (molecular, cellular, and tissue) is a challenge of modern radiobiology studies. According to the recent experimental studies at particle accelerators, the most radiation-sensitive area of the CNS is the hippocampus. In this regards, the development of measurement-based Monte Carlo simulation of radiation-induced alterations in the hippocampus is of great interest to understand the radiobiological effects on the CNS. The present work investigates the influence of charged particles on the hippocampal cells of the rat brain using the Geant4 Monte Carlo radiation transport code. The applied computer simulation provides a method to simulate physics processes and chemical reactions in the developed model of the rat hippocampus, which contains different types of neural cells - pyramidal cells, mature and immature granular cells, mossy cells, and neural stem cells. The distribution of stochastic energy depositions has been obtained and analyzed in critical structures of the hippocampal neurons after irradiation with 600 MeV/u iron particles. The computed energy deposition in irradiated hippocampal neurons following a track of iron ion suggests that most of the energy is accumulated by granular cells. The obtained quantities at the level of molecular targets also assume that NMDA and GABA receptors belong to the most probable targets in the irradiated neural cells.
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Neurochemical insights into the radiation protection of astronauts: Distinction between low- and moderate-LET radiation components. Phys Med 2018; 57:7-16. [PMID: 30738534 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation protection of astronauts remains an ongoing challenge in preparation of deep space exploratory missions. Exposure to space radiation consisting of multiple radiation components is associated with a significant risk of experiencing central nervous system (CNS) detriments, potentially influencing the crew operational decisions. Developing of countermeasures protecting CNS from the deleterious exposure requires understanding the mechanistic nature of cognitive impairments induced by different components of space radiation. The current study was designed to identify differences in neurochemical modifications caused by exposure to low- and moderate-LET radiations and to elucidate a distinction between the observed outcomes. We exposed rats to accelerated protons (170 MeV; 0.5 keV/μm) or to carbon ions (12C; 500 MeV/u; 10.5 keV/μm) delivered at the same dose of 1 Gy. Neurochemical alterations were evaluated 1, 30, and 90 days after exposure via indices of the monoamine metabolism measured in five brain structures, including prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, nucleus accumbens, hippocampus and striatum. We obtained the detailed patterns of neurochemical modifications after exposure to the mentioned radiation modalities. Our data show that the enhancement in the radiation LET from relatively low to moderate values leads to different neurochemical outcomes and that a particular effect depends on the irradiated brain structure. We also hypothesized that exposure to the moderate-LET radiations can induce a hyperactivation of feedback neurochemical mechanisms, which blur metabolic deviations and lead to the delayed impairments in brain functions. Based on our findings we discuss possible contribution of the observed changes to behavioural impairments.
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Whole-Body 12C Irradiation Transiently Decreases Mouse Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus Proliferation and Immature Neuron Number, but Does Not Change New Neuron Survival Rate. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103078. [PMID: 30304778 PMCID: PMC6213859 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
High-charge and -energy (HZE) particles comprise space radiation and they pose a challenge to astronauts on deep space missions. While exposure to most HZE particles decreases neurogenesis in the hippocampus—a brain structure important in memory—prior work suggests that 12C does not. However, much about 12C’s influence on neurogenesis remains unknown, including the time course of its impact on neurogenesis. To address this knowledge gap, male mice (9–11 weeks of age) were exposed to whole-body 12C irradiation 100 cGy (IRR; 1000 MeV/n; 8 kEV/µm) or Sham treatment. To birthdate dividing cells, mice received BrdU i.p. 22 h post-irradiation and brains were harvested 2 h (Short-Term) or three months (Long-Term) later for stereological analysis indices of dentate gyrus neurogenesis. For the Short-Term time point, IRR mice had fewer Ki67, BrdU, and doublecortin (DCX) immunoreactive (+) cells versus Sham mice, indicating decreased proliferation (Ki67, BrdU) and immature neurons (DCX). For the Long-Term time point, IRR and Sham mice had similar Ki67+ and DCX+ cell numbers, suggesting restoration of proliferation and immature neurons 3 months post-12C irradiation. IRR mice had fewer surviving BrdU+ cells versus Sham mice, suggesting decreased cell survival, but there was no difference in BrdU+ cell survival rate when compared within treatment and across time point. These data underscore the ability of neurogenesis in the mouse brain to recover from the detrimental effect of 12C exposure.
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Hellweg CE, Chishti AA, Diegeler S, Spitta LF, Henschenmacher B, Baumstark-Khan C. Molecular Signaling in Response to Charged Particle Exposures and its Importance in Particle Therapy. Int J Part Ther 2018; 5:60-73. [PMID: 31773020 PMCID: PMC6871585 DOI: 10.14338/ijpt-18-00016.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Energetic, charged particles elicit an orchestrated DNA damage response (DDR) during their traversal through healthy tissues and tumors. Complex DNA damage formation, after exposure to high linear energy transfer (LET) charged particles, results in DNA repair foci formation, which begins within seconds. More protein modifications occur after high-LET, compared with low-LET, irradiation. Charged-particle exposure activates several transcription factors that are cytoprotective or cytodestructive, or that upregulate cytokine and chemokine expression, and are involved in bystander signaling. Molecular signaling for a survival or death decision in different tumor types and healthy tissues should be studied as prerequisite for shaping sensitizing and protective strategies. Long-term signaling and gene expression changes were found in various tissues of animals exposed to charged particles, and elucidation of their role in chronic and late effects of charged-particle therapy will help to develop effective preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E. Hellweg
- German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Radiation Biology Department, Köln, Germany
| | - Arif Ali Chishti
- German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Radiation Biology Department, Köln, Germany
- The Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sebastian Diegeler
- German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Radiation Biology Department, Köln, Germany
| | - Luis F. Spitta
- German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Radiation Biology Department, Köln, Germany
| | - Bernd Henschenmacher
- German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Radiation Biology Department, Köln, Germany
| | - Christa Baumstark-Khan
- German Aerospace Center (DLR), Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Radiation Biology Department, Köln, Germany
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Smart D. Radiation Toxicity in the Central Nervous System: Mechanisms and Strategies for Injury Reduction. Semin Radiat Oncol 2018; 27:332-339. [PMID: 28865516 DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2017.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The potential for radiation-induced toxicities in the brain produces significant anxiety, both among patients receiving radiation therapy and those radiation oncologists providing treatment. These concerns often play a significant role in the medical decision-making process for most patients with diseases in which radiotherapy may be a treatment consideration. Although the precise mechanisms of neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration after ionizing radiation exposure continue to be poorly understood from a biological perspective, there is an increasing body of scientific and clinical literature that is producing a better understanding of how radiation causes brain injury; factors that determine whether toxicities occur; and potential preventative, treatment, and mitigation strategies for patients at high risk or with symptoms of injury. This review will focus primarily on injuries and biological processes described in mature brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- DeeDee Smart
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.
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