New research has shown, that being in space doesn't just weaken your muscles, bones and immunity of astronauts, and accelerates the aging of blood stem cells. These cells are responsible for restoring blood and protecting the body from infections.
An article in Cell Stem Cell reports, that under the influence of microgravity and radiation on board the ISS, hematopoietic stem cells lose their ability to renew. They stop "resting", excessively active, quickly wear out and show signs of premature aging.
How the experiment went
The NASA team used miniature bioreactors with human bone marrow cells, which worked autonomously in orbit until 45 days. Turning to Earth, cells showed shorter telomeres, reduced activity of mitochondria and genetic mutations, similar to those, which are observed in pre-leukemic states.
Molecular and immune implications
The analysis revealed increased levels of inflammatory signals and activation of the so-called "dark genome" - sections of DNA, which are usually inactive, but under stress they can trigger destructive processes. This increases cell depletion and the risk of immune system disruption.
Possibility of recovery
Despite the serious risks, preliminary results indicate, that after returning to Earth, stem cells are gradually restored, although the process can take up to a year. Scientists are also testing possible cures, which can block harmful genetic processes.
Meaning for space and Earth
The obtained data are critically important for planning missions to the Moon and Mars: weakened immunity and the risk of developing hematopoietic diseases can become a serious threat to astronauts. At the same time, these studies are important for medicine on Earth, because similar mechanisms of cell aging are observed in patients with cancer and immune disorders.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com