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Horeau M, Navasiolava N, Van Ombergen A, Custaud MA, Robin A, Ropert M, Antunes I, Bareille MP, Billette De Villemeur R, Gauquelin-Koch G, Derbré F, Loréal O. Dry immersion rapidly disturbs iron metabolism in men and women: results from the VIVALDI studies. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:68. [PMID: 38879550 PMCID: PMC11180090 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00399-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Iron is essential for cell respiration, muscle metabolism, and oxygen transport. Recent research has shown that simulated microgravity rapidly affects iron metabolism in men. However, its impact on women remains unclear. This study aims to compare iron metabolism alterations in both sexes exposed to 5 days of dry immersion. Our findings demonstrate that women, similarly to men, experience increased systemic iron availability and elevated serum hepcidin levels, indicative of iron misdistribution after short-term exposure to simulated microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Horeau
- INSERM, University of Rennes, INRAE, UMR 1241, AEM2 Platform, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer (NuMeCan) institute, Rennes, France
- Laboratory "Movement Sport and Health Sciences" EA7470, University of Rennes/ENS Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Nastassia Navasiolava
- Univ Angers, CRC, CHU Angers, Inserm, CNRS, MITOVASC, Equipe CARME, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
| | | | - Marc-Antoine Custaud
- Univ Angers, CRC, CHU Angers, Inserm, CNRS, MITOVASC, Equipe CARME, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
| | - Adrien Robin
- Univ Angers, CRC, CHU Angers, Inserm, CNRS, MITOVASC, Equipe CARME, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Martine Ropert
- INSERM, University of Rennes, INRAE, UMR 1241, AEM2 Platform, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer (NuMeCan) institute, Rennes, France
| | - Inês Antunes
- Telespazio Belgium S.R.L. for the European Space Agency, Noordwijk, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Frédéric Derbré
- Laboratory "Movement Sport and Health Sciences" EA7470, University of Rennes/ENS Rennes, Rennes, France.
| | - Olivier Loréal
- INSERM, University of Rennes, INRAE, UMR 1241, AEM2 Platform, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer (NuMeCan) institute, Rennes, France.
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2
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Seylani A, Galsinh AS, Tasoula A, I AR, Camera A, Calleja-Agius J, Borg J, Goel C, Kim J, Clark KB, Das S, Arif S, Boerrigter M, Coffey C, Szewczyk N, Mason CE, Manoli M, Karouia F, Schwertz H, Beheshti A, Tulodziecki D. Ethical considerations for the age of non-governmental space exploration. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4774. [PMID: 38862473 PMCID: PMC11166968 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44357-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: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Mounting ambitions and capabilities for public and private, non-government sector crewed space exploration bring with them an increasingly diverse set of space travelers, raising new and nontrivial ethical, legal, and medical policy and practice concerns which are still relatively underexplored. In this piece, we lay out several pressing issues related to ethical considerations for selecting space travelers and conducting human subject research on them, especially in the context of non-governmental and commercial/private space operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Seylani
- School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside. 92521 Botanical Garden Dr, Riverside, CA, 92507, USA
| | - Aman Singh Galsinh
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX, UK
| | - Alexia Tasoula
- Department of Life Science Engineering, FH Technikum, Vienna, Austria
- Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Anu R I
- Department of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, MVR Cancer Centre and Research Institute, Calicut, India
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, MVR Cancer Centre and Research Institute, Calicut, India
| | - Andrea Camera
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD2080, Msida, Malta
| | - Joseph Borg
- Department of Applied Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, MSD2080, Msida, Malta
| | - Chirag Goel
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - JangKeun Kim
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin B Clark
- Cures Within Reach, Chicago, IL, 60602, USA
- Peace Innovation Institute, The Hague 2511, Netherlands & Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, 94305, USA
- Biometrics and Nanotechnology Councils, Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers, New York, NY, 10016-5997, USA
| | - Saswati Das
- Department of Biochemistry, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shehbeel Arif
- Center for Data-Driven Discovery in Biomedicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Caroline Coffey
- Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Nathaniel Szewczyk
- Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Christopher E Mason
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria Manoli
- School of Law, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3UB, UK
| | - Fathi Karouia
- Blue Marble Space Institute for Science, Exobiology Branch, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, USA
- Space Research Within Reach, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hansjörg Schwertz
- Molecular Medicine Program at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
- Division of Occupational Medicine at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA.
- Occupational Medicine at Billings Clinic Bozeman, Bozeman, MT, 59715, USA.
| | - Afshin Beheshti
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, US.
| | - Dana Tulodziecki
- Department of Philosophy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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3
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Ecker Cohen O, Neuman S, Natan Y, Levy A, Blum YD, Amselem S, Bavli D, Ben Y. Amorphous calcium carbonate enhances osteogenic differentiation and myotube formation of human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells and primary skeletal muscle cells under microgravity conditions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 41:146-157. [PMID: 38670641 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.02.007] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Astronauts are exposed to severely stressful physiological conditions due to microgravity and increased space radiation. Space environment affects every organ and cell in the body and the significant adverse effects of long-term weightlessness include muscle atrophy and deterioration of the skeleton (spaceflight osteopenia). Amorphous Calcium Carbonate (ACC) emerges as a promising candidate for prevention of these effects, owing to its unique physicochemical properties and its potential to address the intricately linked nature of bone-muscle crosstalk. Reported here are two studies carried out on the International Space Station (ISS). The first, performed in 2018 as a part of the Ramon-Spacelab project, was a preliminary experiment, in which stromal murine cells were differentiated into osteoblasts when ACC was added to the culture medium. A parallel experiment was done on Earth as a control. The second study was part of Axiom-1's Rakia project mission launched to the ISS on 2022 utilizing organ-on-a-chip methodology with a specially designed autonomous module. In this experiment, human bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) and human primary muscle cells were cultured in the presence or absence of ACC, in duplicates. The results showed that ACC enhanced differentiation of human primary skeletal muscle cells into myotubes. Similarly, hBM-MSCs were differentiated significantly better into osteocytes in the presence of ACC leading to increased calcium deposits. The results, combined with previous data, support the use of ACC as an advantageous supplement for preventing muscle and bone deterioration in outer space conditions, facilitating extended extraterrestrial voyages and colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Neuman
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel
| | - Yehudit Natan
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel.
| | - Almog Levy
- SpacePharma R&D, 1 Abba Even Blvd, Herzliya, 4612003, Israel
| | - Yigal Dov Blum
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel
| | - Shimon Amselem
- SpacePharma R&D, 1 Abba Even Blvd, Herzliya, 4612003, Israel
| | - Danny Bavli
- SpacePharma R&D, 1 Abba Even Blvd, Herzliya, 4612003, Israel
| | - Yossi Ben
- Amorphical LTD, 11 HaHarash St. Nes Ziona, 740318, Israel
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4
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Wang M, Chen S, Zhong C, Liu L, Wang G, Huang X, Yang X, Yang H, Li L. The influence of simulated weightlessness on the composition and function of gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism products. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 41:18-28. [PMID: 38670645 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.01.002] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of simulated weightlessness on gut microbiota, bile acid metabolism, and inflammatory cytokines compared to the control group. The study compared the changes in gut microbiota at the phylum and genus levels in the feces of control and weightlessness rats after 1 and 8 weeks using fecal 16S rRNA sequencing. In the weightlessness group, there was an increase in the proportion of anaerobic bacteria and biofilm-forming bacteria, and a decrease in the proportion of aerobic and Gram-negative bacteria. Further investigations explored the impact of weightlessness on bile acid metabolism products. The levels of glycine ursodeoxycholic acid, glycine chenodeoxycholic acid, glycine deoxycholic acid and glycine cholic acid levels were lower in rats undergoing weightlessness for 1 week compared to the control group.Moreover, the study examined the relationship between gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism products.It was observed that, unlike the control group, there were significant positive correlations between Planctomycetes, Proteobacteria, Synergistetes, and GUDCA levels in rats after 1 week of weightlessness. Finally, ELISA results indicated significant differences in the levels of MDA, GSH, NLRP3, and SIgA inflammatory cytokines between rats undergoing weightlessness for 1 week and the control group rats. Our research confirmed that the simulated weightlessness environment significantly affects the gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism in rats, potentially leading to changes in inflammatory cytokines and causing intestinal tissue inflammation. Further exploring the relationship between gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism under weightless conditions will be crucial for understanding the functional changes in the intestines caused by weightlessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Changqing Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaoman Yang
- Department of Pathology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Heming Yang
- Department of General Surgery, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Lianyong Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, No. 9 Anxiang North Lane, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China.
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5
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Zhang Z, Jing Y, Zhang A, Liu J, Yang H, Lou X, Xu L, Liu M, Zhang Y, Gu J. Long non-coding RNA-NONMMMUT004552.2 regulates the unloading-induced bone loss through the miRNA-15b-5p/Syne1 in mice. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:37. [PMID: 38521778 PMCID: PMC10960867 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00382-8] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Exercise-induced mechanical loading can increase bone strength whilst mechanical unloading enhances bone-loss. Here, we investigated the role of lncRNA NONMMUT004552.2 in unloading-induced bone-loss. Knockout of lncRNA NONMMUT004552.2 in hindlimb-unloaded mice caused an increase in the bone formation and osteoblast activity. The silencing of lncRNA NONMMUT004552.2 also decreased the osteoblast apoptosis and expression of Bax and cleaved caspase-3, increased Bcl-2 protein expression in MC3T3-E1 cells. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that NONMMUT004552.2 functions as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to facilitate the protein expression of spectrin repeat containing, nuclear envelope 1 (Syne1) by competitively binding miR-15b-5p and subsequently inhibits the osteoblast differentiation and bone formation in the microgravity unloading environment. These data highlight the importance of the lncRNA NONMMUT004552.2/miR-15b-5p/Syne1 axis for the treatment of osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Department of Medical Engineering, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yu Jing
- Department of Haematology, The Fifth Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Ang Zhang
- Department of Hematology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - JiShan Liu
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Heming Yang
- Department of General Surgery, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xiaotong Lou
- Department of Research, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Liyan Xu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Min Liu
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yikun Zhang
- Department of Hematology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Jianwen Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China.
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6
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Khan OM, Gasperini W, Necessary C, Jacobs Z, Perry S, Rexroat J, Nelson K, Gamble P, Clements T, DeLeon M, Howard S, Zavala A, Farach-Carson M, Blaber E, Wu D, Satici A, Uzer G. Development and Characterization of a low intensity vibrational system for microgravity studies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.20.567870. [PMID: 38045225 PMCID: PMC10690179 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.20.567870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The advent of extended-duration human spaceflight demands a better comprehension of the physiological impacts of microgravity. One primary concern is the adverse impact on the musculoskeletal system, including muscle atrophy and bone density reduction. Ground-based microgravity simulations have provided insights, with vibrational bioreactors emerging as potential mitigators of these negative effects. Despite the potential they have, the adaptation of vibrational bioreactors for space remains unfulfilled, resulting in a significant gap in microgravity research. This paper introduces the first automated low-intensity vibrational (LIV) bioreactor designed specifically for the International Space Station (ISS) environment. Our research covers the bioreactor's design and characterization, the selection of an optimal linear guide for consistent 1-axis acceleration, a thorough analysis of its thermal and diffusion dynamics, and the pioneering use of BioMed Clear resin for enhanced scaffold design. This advancement sets the stage for more authentic space-based biological studies, vital for ensuring the safety of future space explorations.
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7
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Tomsia M, Cieśla J, Śmieszek J, Florek S, Macionga A, Michalczyk K, Stygar D. Long-term space missions' effects on the human organism: what we do know and what requires further research. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1284644. [PMID: 38415007 PMCID: PMC10896920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1284644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Space has always fascinated people. Many years have passed since the first spaceflight, and in addition to the enormous technological progress, the level of understanding of human physiology in space is also increasing. The presented paper aims to summarize the recent research findings on the influence of the space environment (microgravity, pressure differences, cosmic radiation, etc.) on the human body systems during short-term and long-term space missions. The review also presents the biggest challenges and problems that must be solved in order to extend safely the time of human stay in space. In the era of increasing engineering capabilities, plans to colonize other planets, and the growing interest in commercial space flights, the most topical issues of modern medicine seems to be understanding the effects of long-term stay in space, and finding solutions to minimize the harmful effects of the space environment on the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Cieśla
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Śmieszek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Florek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Macionga
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Michalczyk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominika Stygar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- SLU University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Dontre AJ. Weighing the impact of microgravity on vestibular and visual functions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 40:51-61. [PMID: 38245348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.12.003] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Numerous technological challenges have been overcome to realize human space exploration. As mission durations gradually lengthen, the next obstacle is a set of physical limitations. Extended exposure to microgravity poses multiple threats to various bodily systems. Two of these systems are of particular concern for the success of future space missions. The vestibular system includes the otolith organs, which are stimulated in gravity but unloaded in microgravity. This impairs perception, posture, and coordination, all of which are relevant to mission success. Similarly, vision is impaired in many space travelers due to possible intracranial pressure changes or fluid shifts in the brain. As humankind prepares for extended missions to Mars and beyond, it is imperative to compensate for these perils in prolonged weightlessness. Possible countermeasures are considered such as exercise regimens, improved nutrition, and artificial gravity achieved with a centrifuge or spacecraft rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Dontre
- School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University, 2020 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA; Department of Communications, Behavioral, and Natural Sciences, Franklin University, 201 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215, USA.
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9
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Zhu D, Qiao P, Zhou Q, Sun H, Xin B, Wu B, Tang C. Effect of 15 days -6° head-down bed rest on microbial communities of supragingival plaque in young men. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1331023. [PMID: 38328428 PMCID: PMC10849213 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1331023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The microgravity environment astronauts experience during spaceflight can lead to an increased risk of oral diseases and possible changes in oral microecology. In this study, we aimed to assess changes in the microbial community of supragingival plaques to explore the effects of spaceflight microgravity environment on oral microecology. Methods Sixteen healthy male volunteers were recruited, and supragingival plaque samples were collected under -6° head-down bed rest (HDBR) at five-time points: day 1 before HDBR; days 5, 10, and 15 of HDBR; and day 6 of recovery. Bacterial genomic DNA was sequenced using gene sequencing technology with 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid V3-V4 hypervariable region amplification and the obtained data were analyzed bioinformatically. Results Alpha diversity analysis showed a significant increase in species richness in supragingival plaque samples on day 15 of HDBR compared with that at pre-HDBR. Beta diversity analysis revealed that the community composition differed among the groups. Species distribution showed that, compared with those at pre-HDBR, the relative abundances of Corynebacterium and Aggregatibacter increased significantly during HDBR, while those of Veillonella, Streptococcus, and Lautropia decreased significantly. Moreover, compared with those at pre-HDBR, the relative abundance of Leptotrichia increased significantly on day 6 of recovery, whereas the relative abundances of Porphyromonas and Streptococcus decreased significantly. Network analysis showed that the interaction relationship between the dominant genera became simpler during HDBR, and the positive and negative correlations between them showed dynamic changes. Phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states analysis showed that the amino acid metabolism function of plaque microorganisms was more enriched during HDBR. Discussion In summary, in a 15-day simulated microgravity environment, the diversity, species distribution, interaction relationship, and metabolic function of the supragingival plaque microbial community changed, which suggests that microgravity may affect the oral microecosystem by changing the balance of supragingival plaque microbial communities and further leading to the occurrence and development of oral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhu
- 306th Clinical College of PLA, The Fifth Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Stomatology, PLA Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyan Qiao
- Department of Stomatology, PLA Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Stomatology, PLA Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Sun
- 306th Clinical College of PLA, The Fifth Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Stomatology, PLA Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Bingmu Xin
- Engineering Research Center of Human Circadian Rhythm and Sleep, Space Science and Technology Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bin Wu
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chuhua Tang
- 306th Clinical College of PLA, The Fifth Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Stomatology, PLA Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
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10
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Anderson H, Hersh DS, Khan Y. The potential role of mechanotransduction in the management of pediatric calvarial bone flap repair. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:39-52. [PMID: 37668193 PMCID: PMC10841298 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28534] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric patients suffering traumatic brain injuries may require a decompressive craniectomy to accommodate brain swelling by removing a portion of the skull. Once the brain swelling subsides, the preserved calvarial bone flap is ideally replaced as an autograft during a cranioplasty to restore protection of the brain, as it can reintegrate and grow with the patient during immature skeletal development. However, pediatric patients exhibit a high prevalence of calvarial bone flap resorption post-cranioplasty, causing functional and cosmetic morbidity. This review examines possible solutions for mitigating pediatric calvarial bone flap resorption by delineating methods of stimulating mechanosensitive cell populations with mechanical forces. Mechanotransduction plays a critical role in three main cell types involved with calvarial bone repair, including mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, and dural cells, through mechanisms that could be exploited to promote osteogenesis. In particular, physiologically relevant mechanical forces, including substrate deformation, external forces, and ultrasound, can be used as tools to stimulate bone repair in both in vitro and in vivo systems. Ultimately, combating pediatric calvarial flap resorption may require a combinatorial approach using both cell therapy and bioengineering strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Anderson
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
- The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - David S Hersh
- Department of Surgery, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Division of Neurosurgery, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yusuf Khan
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
- The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Orthopaedic Surgery, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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11
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Dakkumadugula A, Pankaj L, Alqahtani AS, Ullah R, Ercisli S, Murugan R. Space nutrition and the biochemical changes caused in Astronauts Health due to space flight: A review. Food Chem X 2023; 20:100875. [PMID: 38144801 PMCID: PMC10740090 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2023.100875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Astronauts required food that is healthy, nutritious, and tasted good, while also meeting their dietary needs. To ensure the astronauts' nutritional needs are met, a Nutritional Status Assessment Supplemental Medical Objective (Nutrition SMO) is conducted. This involves collecting blood and urine samples from the astronauts, which are then tested and analysed. The assessment looks for indications of bone health, muscle loss, hormonal imbalances, gastrointestinal functions, cardiovascular health, iron metabolism, ophthalmic changes, and immune changes that occur during space flight under conditions of microgravity or weightlessness. It was discovered that iron levels in astronauts tend to increase due to the decrease in body volume during space flight. It requires skilful optimization considering nutrient delivery, shelf life, and packaging of space food, while minimizing resource usage and ensuring reliability, safety, and addressing the physiological and psychological effects on the crew members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Dakkumadugula
- Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore 560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Lakshaa Pankaj
- Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore 560054, Karnataka, India
| | - Ali S. Alqahtani
- Medicinal Aromatic and Poisonous Plants Research Center, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Riaz Ullah
- Medicinal Aromatic and Poisonous Plants Research Center, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sezai Ercisli
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Ataturk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey
- HGF Agro, Ata Teknokent, TR-25240, Erzurum, Turkiye
| | - Rajadurai Murugan
- Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bangalore 560054, Karnataka, India
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12
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Espinosa-Ortiz EJ, Gerlach R, Peyton BM, Roberson L, Yeh DH. Biofilm reactors for the treatment of used water in space:potential, challenges, and future perspectives. Biofilm 2023; 6:100140. [PMID: 38078057 PMCID: PMC10704334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioflm.2023.100140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Water is not only essential to sustain life on Earth, but also is a crucial resource for long-duration deep space exploration and habitation. Current systems in space rely on the resupply of water from Earth, however, as missions get longer and move farther away from Earth, resupply will no longer be a sustainable option. Thus, the development of regenerative reclamation water systems through which useable water can be recovered from "waste streams" (i.e., used waters) is sorely needed to further close the loop in space life support systems. This review presents the origin and characteristics of different used waters generated in space and discusses the intrinsic challenges of developing suitable technologies to treat such streams given the unique constrains of space exploration and habitation (e.g., different gravity conditions, size and weight limitations, compatibility with other systems, etc.). In this review, we discuss the potential use of biological systems, particularly biofilms, as possible alternatives or additions to current technologies for water reclamation and waste treatment in space. The fundamentals of biofilm reactors, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as different reactor configurations and their potential for use and challenges to be incorporated in self-sustaining and regenerative life support systems in long-duration space missions are also discussed. Furthermore, we discuss the possibility to recover value-added products (e.g., biomass, nutrients, water) from used waters and the opportunity to recycle and reuse such products as resources in other life support subsystems (e.g., habitation, waste, air, etc.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika J. Espinosa-Ortiz
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59717, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59717, USA
| | - Robin Gerlach
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59717, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59717, USA
| | - Brent M. Peyton
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59717, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, 59717, USA
| | - Luke Roberson
- Exploration Research and Technology Directorate, NASA, Kennedy Space Center, 32899, USA
| | - Daniel H. Yeh
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA
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13
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Asachi P, Ghanem G, Burton J, Aintablian H, Chiem A. Utility of ultrasound in managing acute medical conditions in space: a scoping review. Ultrasound J 2023; 15:47. [PMID: 38085418 PMCID: PMC10716092 DOI: 10.1186/s13089-023-00349-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In long-distance spaceflight, the challenges of communication delays and the impracticality of rapid evacuation necessitate the management of medical emergencies by onboard physicians. Consequently, these physicians must be proficient in tools, such as ultrasound, which has proven itself a strong diagnostic imaging tool in space. Yet, there remains a notable gap in the discourse surrounding its efficacy in handling acute medical scenarios. This scoping review aims to present an updated analysis of the evidence supporting the role of ultrasound in diagnosing acute conditions within microgravity environments. METHODS A systematic search was executed across three bibliographic databases: PubMed, EMBASE (Embase.com), and the Web of Science Core Collection. We considered articles published up to February 25, 2023, that highlighted the application of ultrasound in diagnosing acute medical conditions in either microgravity or microgravity-simulated settings. Exclusions were made for review papers, abstracts, and in-vitro studies. RESULTS After removing duplicates, and filtering papers by pre-determined criteria, a total of 15 articles were identified that discuss the potential use of ultrasound in managing acute medical conditions in space. The publication date of these studies ranged from 1999 to 2020. A relatively similar proportion of these studies were conducted either on the International Space Station or in parabolic flight, with one performed in supine positioning to simulate weightlessness. The included studies discuss acute pathologies, such as abdominal emergencies, decompression sickness, deep venous thrombosis, acute lung pathologies, sinusitis, musculoskeletal trauma, genitourinary emergencies, and ocular emergencies. CONCLUSIONS While ultrasound has shown promise in addressing various acute conditions, significant knowledge gaps remain, especially in gastrointestinal, cardiac, vascular, and reproductive emergencies. As we venture further into space, expanding our medical expertise becomes vital to ensure astronaut safety and mission success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parsa Asachi
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 855 Tiverton Dr, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA.
| | - Ghadi Ghanem
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 855 Tiverton Dr, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Jason Burton
- University of California, Los Angeles Library, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Haig Aintablian
- Department of Emergency Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alan Chiem
- Department of Emergency Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine UCLA, Olive View UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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14
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Guo Q, Chen N, Patel K, Wan M, Zheng J, Cao X. Unloading-Induced Skeletal Interoception Alters Hypothalamic Signaling to Promote Bone Loss and Fat Metabolism. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2305042. [PMID: 37880864 PMCID: PMC10724445 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Microgravity is the primary factor that affects human physiology in spaceflight, particularly bone loss and disturbances of the central nervous system. However, little is known about the cellular and molecular mechanisms of these effects. Here, it is reported that in mice hindlimb unloading stimulates expression of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the hypothalamus, resulting in bone loss and altered fat metabolism. Enhanced expression of TH and NPY in the hypothalamus occurs downstream of a reduced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-mediated ascending interoceptive signaling of the skeletal interoception. Sympathetic antagonist propranolol or deletion of Adrb2 in osteocytes rescue bone loss in the unloading model. Moreover, depletion of TH+ sympathetic nerves or inhibition of norepinephrine release ameliorated bone resorption. Stereotactic inhibition of NPY expression in the hypothalamic neurons reduces the food intake with altered energy expenditure with a limited effect on bone, indicating hypothalamic neuroendocrine factor NPY in the facilitation of bone formation by sympathetic TH activity. These findings suggest that reduced PGE2-mediated interoceptive signaling in response to microgravity or unloading has impacts on the skeletal and central nervous systems that are reciprocally regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyue Guo
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Ningrong Chen
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
| | - Kalp Patel
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
| | - Mei Wan
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
| | - Junying Zheng
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
| | - Xu Cao
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMD21205USA
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15
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Andrade MR, Azeez TA, Montgomery MM, Caldwell JT, Park H, Kwok AT, Borg AM, Narayanan SA, Willey JS, Delp MD, La Favor JD. Neurovascular dysfunction associated with erectile dysfunction persists after long-term recovery from simulations of weightlessness and deep space irradiation. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23246. [PMID: 37990646 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300506rr] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
There has been growing interest within the space industry for long-duration manned expeditions to the Moon and Mars. During deep space missions, astronauts are exposed to high levels of galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) and microgravity which are associated with increased risk of oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction are causative factors in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction, although the effects of spaceflight on erectile function have been unexplored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of simulated spaceflight and long-term recovery on tissues critical for erectile function, the distal internal pudendal artery (dIPA), and the corpus cavernosum (CC). Eighty-six adult male Fisher-344 rats were randomized into six groups and exposed to 4-weeks of hindlimb unloading (HLU) or weight-bearing control, and sham (0Gy), 0.75 Gy, or 1.5 Gy of simulated GCR at the ground-based GCR simulator at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory. Following a 12-13-month recovery, ex vivo physiological analysis of the dIPA and CC tissue segments revealed differential impacts of HLU and GCR on endothelium-dependent and -independent relaxation that was tissue type specific. GCR impaired non-adrenergic non-cholinergic (NANC) nerve-mediated relaxation in the dIPA and CC, while follow-up experiments of the CC showed restoration of NANC-mediated relaxation of GCR tissues following acute incubation with the antioxidants mito-TEMPO and TEMPOL, as well as inhibitors of xanthine oxidase and arginase. These findings indicate that simulated spaceflight exerts a long-term impairment of neurovascular erectile function, which exposes a new health risk to consider with deep space exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuella R Andrade
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Tooyib A Azeez
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - McLane M Montgomery
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Jacob T Caldwell
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Hyerim Park
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Andy T Kwok
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexander M Borg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - S Anand Narayanan
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Willey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael D Delp
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Justin D La Favor
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
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16
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Nishimura Y. Technology using simulated microgravity. Regen Ther 2023; 24:318-323. [PMID: 37662695 PMCID: PMC10470365 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body experiences constant stimulation from Earth's gravity, and the absence of gravity leads to various impacts at the cellular and tissue levels. Simulated microgravity (s-μg) has been employed on Earth to investigate these effects, circumventing the challenges of conducting experiments in space and providing an opportunity to understand the influence of microgravity on living organisms. Research focusing on stem cells and utilizing s-μg has enhanced our understanding of how microgravity affects stem cell morphology, migration, proliferation, and differentiation. Studies have used systems such as rotating wall vessels, random positioning machines, and clinostats. By uncovering the mechanisms underlying the observed changes in these studies, there is potential to identify therapeutic targets that regulate stem cell function and explore a range of applications, including stem cell-based regenerative medicine. This review will focus on the features of each device designed to simulate microgravity on Earth, as well as the stem cell experiments performed with those devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Nishimura
- Department of Clinical Engineering, Faculty of Medical Science and Technology, Gunma Paz University, 3-3-4 Tonyamachi, Takasaki-shi, Gunma 370-0006, Japan
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17
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Manon J, Saint-Guillain M, Pletser V, Buckland DM, Vico L, Dobney W, Baatout S, Wain C, Jacobs J, Comein A, Drouet S, Meert J, Casla IS, Chamart C, Vanderdonckt J, Cartiaux O, Cornu O. Adequacy of in-mission training to treat tibial shaft fractures in mars analogue testing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18072. [PMID: 37872309 PMCID: PMC10593937 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43878-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Long bone fractures are a concern in long-duration exploration missions (LDEM) where crew autonomy will exceed the current Low Earth Orbit paradigm. Current crew selection assumptions require extensive complete training and competency testing prior to flight for off-nominal situations. Analogue astronauts (n = 6) can be quickly trained to address a single fracture pattern and then competently perform the repair procedure. An easy-to-use external fixation (EZExFix) was employed to repair artificial tibial shaft fractures during an inhabited mission at the Mars Desert Research Station (Utah, USA). Bone repair safety zones were respected (23/24), participants achieved 79.2% repair success, and median completion time was 50.04 min. Just-in-time training in-mission was sufficient to become autonomous without pre-mission medical/surgical/mechanical education, regardless of learning conditions (p > 0.05). Similar techniques could be used in LDEM to increase astronauts' autonomy in traumatic injury treatment and lower skill competency requirements used in crew selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Manon
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium.
- UCLouvain - IREC, Morphology Lab (MORF), Avenue Emmanuel Mounier 52 - B1.52.04, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
- UCLouvain - IREC, Neuromusculoskeletal Lab (NMSK), Brussels, Belgium.
- Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA.
| | | | | | - Daniel Miller Buckland
- Human System Risk Board (HSRB), NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Duke University, North Carolina, USA
| | - Laurence Vico
- INSERM, Mines Saint-Étienne, Univ Jean Monnet, U 1059 Sainbiose, 42023, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - William Dobney
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK CEN, Mol, Belgium
- School of Aeronautical, Automotive, Chemical and Materials Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | - Cyril Wain
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Jean Jacobs
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Audrey Comein
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Sirga Drouet
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Julien Meert
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Ignacio Sanchez Casla
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Cheyenne Chamart
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- Crew 227 - Mission Analogue Research Simulation (M.A.R.S. UCLouvain) - Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS), Utah, USA
| | - Jean Vanderdonckt
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Olivier Cartiaux
- Department of Health Engineering, ECAM Brussels Engineering School, Haute Ecole "ICHEC-ECAM-ISFSC", Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Cornu
- Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium
- UCLouvain - IREC, Neuromusculoskeletal Lab (NMSK), Brussels, Belgium
- Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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18
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Altaie S, Alrawi A, Xuexin D. A novel model of gravity challenge device. Biomed Signal Process Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2023.104911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
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19
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Bonanni R, Cariati I, Marini M, Tarantino U, Tancredi V. Microgravity and Musculoskeletal Health: What Strategies Should Be Used for a Great Challenge? Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1423. [PMID: 37511798 PMCID: PMC10381503 DOI: 10.3390/life13071423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Space colonization represents the most insidious challenge for mankind, as numerous obstacles affect the success of space missions. Specifically, the absence of gravitational forces leads to systemic physiological alterations, with particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal system. Indeed, astronauts exposed to spaceflight are known to report a significant impairment of bone microarchitecture and muscle mass, conditions clinically defined as osteoporosis and sarcopenia. In this context, space medicine assumes a crucial position, as the development of strategies to prevent and/or counteract weightlessness-induced alterations appears to be necessary. Furthermore, the opportunity to study the biological effects induced by weightlessness could provide valuable information regarding adaptations to spaceflight and suggest potential treatments that can preserve musculoskeletal health under microgravity conditions. Noteworthy, improving knowledge about the latest scientific findings in this field of research is crucial, as is thoroughly investigating the mechanisms underlying biological adaptations to microgravity and searching for innovative solutions to counter spaceflight-induced damage. Therefore, this narrative study review, performed using the MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases, aims to summarize the most recent evidence regarding the effects of real and simulated microgravity on the musculoskeletal system and to discuss the effectiveness of the main defence strategies used in both real and experimental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bonanni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Ida Cariati
- Department of Systems Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Marini
- Department of Systems Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Tarantino
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, "Policlinico Tor Vergata" Foundation, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Tancredi
- Department of Systems Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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20
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Sattgast LH, Wong CP, Branscum AJ, Olson DA, Aguirre-Burk AM, Iwaniec UT, Turner RT. Small changes in thermoregulation influence cancellous bone turnover balance in distal femur metaphysis in growing female mice. Bone Rep 2023; 18:101675. [PMID: 37007217 PMCID: PMC10063413 DOI: 10.1016/j.bonr.2023.101675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Mice are typically housed at temperatures well below their thermoneutral zone. When individually housed at room temperature (~22 °C) mice experience cold stress which results in cancellous bone loss and has the potential to alter the skeletal response to treatment. It is not clear if there is a threshold temperature for cold stress-induced bone loss. It is also not clear if alternative strategies for attenuating cold stress, such as group housing, influence bone accrual and turnover. This study aimed to determine how small differences in temperature (4 °C) or heat loss (individual versus group housing with nestlets) influence bone in growing female C57BL/6 J mice. Five-week-old mice were randomized by weight to 1 of 4 treatment groups (N = 10/group): 1) baseline, 2) single housed at 22 °C, 3) single housed at 26 °C, or 4) group housed (n = 5/cage) with nestlets at 22 °C. Mice in the baseline group were sacrificed 1 week later, at 6 weeks of age. The other 3 groups of mice were maintained at their respective temperatures and housing conditions for 13 weeks until 18 weeks of age. Compared to baseline, mice single housed at room temperature had increased body weight and femur size, but dramatically decreased cancellous bone volume fraction in distal femur metaphysis. The cancellous bone loss was attenuated but not prevented in mice individually housed at 26 °C or group housed at 22 °C. In conclusion, by impacting thermogenesis or heat loss, modest differences in housing conditions could influence experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara H. Sattgast
- Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Carmen P. Wong
- Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Adam J. Branscum
- Biostatistics Program, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Dawn A. Olson
- Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Allan M. Aguirre-Burk
- Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Urszula T. Iwaniec
- Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Center for Healthy Aging Research, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Russell T. Turner
- Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Center for Healthy Aging Research, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Corresponding author at: Skeletal Biology Laboratory, School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, 127 Milam Hall, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
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21
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Dickerson BL, Sowinski R, Kreider RB, Wu G. Impacts of microgravity on amino acid metabolism during spaceflight. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:380-393. [PMID: 36775855 PMCID: PMC10281620 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221139189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight exerts an extreme and unique influence on human physiology as astronauts are subjected to long-term or short-term exposure to microgravity. During spaceflight, a multitude of physiological changes, including the loss of skeletal muscle mass, bone resorption, oxidative stress, and impaired blood flow, occur, which can affect astronaut health and the likelihood of mission success. In vivo and in vitro metabolite studies suggest that amino acids are among the most affected nutrients and metabolites by microgravity (a weightless condition due to very weak gravitational forces). Moreover, exposure to microgravity alters gut microbial composition, immune function, musculoskeletal health, and consequently amino acid metabolism. Appropriate knowledge of daily protein consumption, with a focus on specific functional amino acids, may offer insight into potential combative and/or therapeutic effects of amino acid consumption in astronauts and space travelers. This will further aid in the successful development of long-term manned space mission and permanent space habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Broderick L Dickerson
- Department of Kinesiology and Sports
Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77840, USA
| | - Ryan Sowinski
- Department of Kinesiology and Sports
Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77840, USA
| | - Richard B Kreider
- Department of Kinesiology and Sports
Management, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77840, USA
| | - Guoyao Wu
- Department of Animal Science and
Faculty of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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22
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Gao X, Wang S, Shen S, Wang S, Xie M, Storey KB, Yu C, Lefai E, Song W, Chang H, Yang C. Differential bone remodeling mechanism in hindlimb unloaded and hibernating Daurian ground squirrels: a comparison between artificial and natural disuse within the same species. J Comp Physiol B 2023; 193:329-350. [PMID: 36988658 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-023-01482-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Loss of bone mass can occur in mammals after prolonged disuse but the situation for hibernators that are in a state of torpor for many months of the year is not yet fully understood. The present study assesses the bone remodeling mechanisms present in Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) during hibernation as compared with a model of hindlimb disuse. Differences in microstructure, mechanical properties, bone remodeling-related proteins (Runx2, OCN, ALP, RANKL, CTK and MMP-9) and key proteins of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway (GSK-3β and phospho-β-catenin) were evaluated in ground squirrels under 3 conditions: summer active (SA) vs. hibernation (HIB) vs. hindlimb unloaded (HLU). The results indicated that the body weight in HLU ground squirrels was lower than the SA group, and the middle tibia diameter in the HLU group was lower than that in SA and HIB groups. The thickness of cortical and trabecular bone in femurs from HLU ground squirrels was lower than in SA and HIB groups. Most parameters of the tibia in the HLU group were lower than those in SA and HIB groups, which indicated cortical bone loss in ground squirrels. Moreover, our data showed that the changes in microscopic parameters in the femur were more obvious than those in the tibia in HLU and HIB ground squirrels. The levels of Runx2 and ALP were lower in HLU ground squirrels than SA and HIB groups. The protein levels of OCN were unchanged in the three groups, but the protein levels of ALP were lower in the HLU group than in SA and HIB groups. RANKL, CTK and MMP-9 protein levels were significantly decreased in tibia of HLU ground squirrels as compared with SA and HIB groups. In addition, the protein expression levels of RANKL, CTK and MMP-9 showed no statistical difference between SA and HIB ground squirrels. Thus, the mechanisms involved in the balance between bone formation and resorption in hibernating and hindlimb unloading ground squirrels may be different. The present study showed that in femur, the Wnt signaling pathway was inhibited, the protein level of GSK-3β was increased, and the protein expression of phospho-β-catenin was decreased in the HIB group as compared with the SA group, which indicates that the Wnt signaling pathway has a great influence on the femur of the HIB group. In conclusion, the natural anti-osteoporosis properties of Daurian ground squirrels are seasonal. The squirrels do not experience bone loss when they are inactive for a long time during hibernation, but the mechanisms of anti-osteoporosis did not work in HLU summer active squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuli Gao
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, 229# North Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, People's Republic of China
| | - Siqi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, 229# North Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, People's Republic of China
| | - Siqi Shen
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, 229# North Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, 229# North Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, People's Republic of China
| | - Manjiang Xie
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of Ministry of Education, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Kenneth B Storey
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Caiyong Yu
- Military Medical Innovation Center, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Etienne Lefai
- INRAE, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, UMR 1019, Université Clermont Auvergne, 63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Wenqian Song
- Northwest University Hospital, Xi'an, 710069, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Chang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, 229# North Taibai Road, Xi'an, 710069, People's Republic of China.
| | - Changbin Yang
- Military Medical Innovation Center, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
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Cariati I, Bonanni R, Rinaldi AM, Marini M, Iundusi R, Gasbarra E, Tancredi V, Tarantino U. Recombinant irisin prevents cell death and mineralization defects induced by random positioning machine exposure in primary cultures of human osteoblasts: A promising strategy for the osteoporosis treatment. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1107933. [PMID: 37008023 PMCID: PMC10052411 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1107933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight exposure, like prolonged skeletal unloading, is known to result in significant bone loss, but the molecular mechanisms responsible are still partly unknown. This impairment, characterizing both conditions, suggests the possibility of identifying common signalling pathways and developing innovative treatment strategies to counteract the bone loss typical of astronauts and osteoporotic patients. In this context, primary cell cultures of human osteoblasts derived from healthy subjects and osteoporotic patients were exposed to random positioning machine (RPM) to reproduce the absence of gravity and to exacerbate the pathological condition, respectively. The duration of exposure to RPM was 3 or 6 days, with the aim of determining whether a single administration of recombinant irisin (r-irisin) could prevent cell death and mineralizing capacity loss. In detail, cellular responses were assessed both in terms of death/survival, by MTS assay, analysis of oxidative stress and caspase activity, as well as the expression of survival and cell death proteins, and in terms of mineralizing capacity, by investigating the pentraxin 3 (PTX3) expression. Our results suggest that the effects of a single dose of r-irisin are maintained for a limited time, as demonstrated by complete protection after 3 days of RPM exposure and only partial protection when RPM exposure was for a longer time. Therefore, the use of r-irisin could be a valid strategy to counteract the bone mass loss induced by weightlessness and osteoporosis. Further studies are needed to determine an optimal treatment strategy based on the use of r-irisin that is fully protective even over very long periods of exposure and/or to identify further approaches to be used in a complementary manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Cariati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bonanni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Bonanni,
| | - Anna Maria Rinaldi
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Marini
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Iundusi
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, “Policlinico Tor Vergata” Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Gasbarra
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, “Policlinico Tor Vergata” Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Tancredi
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Tarantino
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, “Policlinico Tor Vergata” Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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24
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Capri M, Conte M, Ciurca E, Pirazzini C, Garagnani P, Santoro A, Longo F, Salvioli S, Lau P, Moeller R, Jordan J, Illig T, Villanueva MM, Gruber M, Bürkle A, Franceschi C, Rittweger J. Long-term human spaceflight and inflammaging: Does it promote aging? Ageing Res Rev 2023; 87:101909. [PMID: 36918115 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Spaceflight and its associated stressors, such as microgravity, radiation exposure, confinement, circadian derailment and disruptive workloads represent an unprecedented type of exposome that is entirely novel from an evolutionary stand point. Within this perspective, we aimed to review the effects of prolonged spaceflight on immune-neuroendocrine systems, brain and brain-gut axis, cardiovascular system and musculoskeletal apparatus, highlighting in particular the similarities with an accelerated aging process. In particular, spaceflight-induced muscle atrophy/sarcopenia and bone loss, vascular and metabolic changes, hyper and hypo reaction of innate and adaptive immune system appear to be modifications shared with the aging process. Most of these modifications are mediated by molecular events that include oxidative and mitochondrial stress, autophagy, DNA damage repair and telomere length alteration, among others, which directly or indirectly converge on the activation of an inflammatory response. According to the inflammaging theory of aging, such an inflammatory response could be a driver of an acceleration of the normal, physiological rate of aging and it is likely that all the systemic modifications in turn lead to an increase of inflammaging in a sort of vicious cycle. The most updated countermeasures to fight these modifications will be also discussed in the light of their possible application not only for astronauts' benefit, but also for older adults on the ground.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Capri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Alma Mater Research Institute on Global Challenges and Climate Change (Alma Climate), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Conte
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Alma Mater Research Institute on Global Challenges and Climate Change (Alma Climate), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Erika Ciurca
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Pirazzini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Garagnani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Alma Mater Research Institute on Global Challenges and Climate Change (Alma Climate), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Clinical Chemistry Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet at Huddinge University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; CNR Institute of Molecular Genetics, Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Aurelia Santoro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Alma Mater Research Institute on Global Challenges and Climate Change (Alma Climate), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Longo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Salvioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrick Lau
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Jens Jordan
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany; Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Illig
- Department of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maria-Moreno Villanueva
- Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Sport Science, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Markus Gruber
- Human Performance Research Centre, Department of Sport Science, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Alexander Bürkle
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Claudio Franceschi
- Department of Applied Mathematics of the Institute of ITMM, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, the Russian Federation
| | - Jörn Rittweger
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany; Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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25
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Le Roy B, Martin-Krumm C, Pinol N, Dutheil F, Trousselard M. Human challenges to adaptation to extreme professional environments: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 146:105054. [PMID: 36682426 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
NASA is planning human exploration of the Moon, while preparations are underway for human missions to Mars, and deeper into the solar system. These missions will expose space travelers to unusual conditions, which they will have to adapt to. Similar conditions are found in several analogous environments on Earth, and studies can provide an initial understanding of the challenges for human adaptation. Such environments can be marked by an extreme climate, danger, limited facilities and supplies, isolation from loved ones, or mandatory interaction with others. They are rarely encountered by most human beings, and mainly concern certain professions in limited missions. This systematic review focuses on professional extreme environments and captures data from papers published since 2005. Our findings provide an insight into their physiological, biological, cognitive, and behavioral impacts for better understand how humans adapt or not to them. This study provides a framework for studying adaptation, which is particularly important in light of upcoming longer space expeditions to more distant destinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Le Roy
- Stress Neurophysiology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny-sur-Orge Cedex, France; CNES, Paris, France; APEMAC/EPSAM, EA 4360 Metz Cedex, France.
| | - Charles Martin-Krumm
- Stress Neurophysiology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny-sur-Orge Cedex, France; APEMAC/EPSAM, EA 4360 Metz Cedex, France; École de Psychologues Praticiens, Catholic Institute of Paris, EA Religion, Culture et société, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Pinol
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Health Library, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, WittyFit, F 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, 34 Avenue Carnot, 63 037 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Marion Trousselard
- Stress Neurophysiology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny-sur-Orge Cedex, France; APEMAC/EPSAM, EA 4360 Metz Cedex, France; French Military Health Service Academy, Paris, France
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26
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Blottner D, Moriggi M, Trautmann G, Hastermann M, Capitanio D, Torretta E, Block K, Rittweger J, Limper U, Gelfi C, Salanova M. Space Omics and Tissue Response in Astronaut Skeletal Muscle after Short and Long Duration Missions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044095. [PMID: 36835504 PMCID: PMC9962627 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms of skeletal muscle adaptation to spaceflight are as yet not fully investigated and well understood. The MUSCLE BIOPSY study analyzed pre and postflight deep calf muscle biopsies (m. soleus) obtained from five male International Space Station (ISS) astronauts. Moderate rates of myofiber atrophy were found in long-duration mission (LDM) astronauts (~180 days in space) performing routine inflight exercise as countermeasure (CM) compared to a short-duration mission (SDM) astronaut (11 days in space, little or no inflight CM) for reference control. Conventional H&E scout histology showed enlarged intramuscular connective tissue gaps between myofiber groups in LDM post vs. preflight. Immunoexpression signals of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, collagen 4 and 6, COL4 and 6, and perlecan were reduced while matrix-metalloproteinase, MMP2, biomarker remained unchanged in LDM post vs. preflight suggesting connective tissue remodeling. Large scale proteomics (space omics) identified two canonical protein pathways associated to muscle weakness (necroptosis, GP6 signaling/COL6) in SDM and four key pathways (Fatty acid β-oxidation, integrin-linked kinase ILK, Rho A GTPase RHO, dilated cardiomyopathy signaling) explicitly in LDM. The levels of structural ECM organization proteins COL6A1/A3, fibrillin 1, FBN1, and lumican, LUM, increased in postflight SDM vs. LDM. Proteins from tricarboxylic acid, TCA cycle, mitochondrial respiratory chain, and lipid metabolism mostly recovered in LDM vs. SDM. High levels of calcium signaling proteins, ryanodine receptor 1, RyR1, calsequestrin 1/2, CASQ1/2, annexin A2, ANXA2, and sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA1) pump, ATP2A, were signatures of SDM, and decreased levels of oxidative stress peroxiredoxin 1, PRDX1, thioredoxin-dependent peroxide reductase, PRDX3, or superoxide dismutase [Mn] 2, SOD2, signatures of LDM postflight. Results help to better understand the spatiotemporal molecular adaptation of skeletal muscle and provide a large scale database of skeletal muscle from human spaceflight for the better design of effective CM protocols in future human deep space exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Blottner
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- NeuroMuscular System & Signaling Group, Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-450-528-347
| | - Manuela Moriggi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gabor Trautmann
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Hastermann
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- NeuroMuscular System & Signaling Group, Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniele Capitanio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Katharina Block
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Joern Rittweger
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), 51147 Cologne, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescence Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Ulrich Limper
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Merheim Medical Center, Witten/Herdecke University, 51109 Cologne, Germany
| | - Cecilia Gelfi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, 20161 Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Salanova
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- NeuroMuscular System & Signaling Group, Center of Space Medicine and Extreme Environments, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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27
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Çelen İ, Jayasinghe A, Doh JH, Sabanayagam CR. Transcriptomic Signature of the Simulated Microgravity Response in Caenorhabditis elegans and Comparison to Spaceflight Experiments. Cells 2023; 12:270. [PMID: 36672205 PMCID: PMC9856674 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the growing interest in human exploration of space, it is crucial to identify the effects of space conditions on biological processes. Here, we analyze the transcriptomic response of Caenorhabditis elegans to simulated microgravity and observe the maintained transcriptomic response after returning to ground conditions for four, eight, and twelve days. We show that 75% of the simulated microgravity-induced changes on gene expression persist after returning to ground conditions for four days while most of these changes are reverted after twelve days. Our results from integrative RNA-seq and mass spectrometry analyses suggest that simulated microgravity affects longevity-regulating insulin/IGF-1 and sphingolipid signaling pathways. Finally, we identified 118 genes that are commonly differentially expressed in simulated microgravity- and space-exposed worms. Overall, this work provides insight into the effect of microgravity on biological systems during and after exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- İrem Çelen
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Aroshan Jayasinghe
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Jung H. Doh
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA
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28
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Pramanik J, Kumar A, Panchal L, Prajapati B. Countermeasures for Maintaining Cardiovascular Health in Space Missions. Curr Cardiol Rev 2023; 19:57-67. [PMID: 37005513 PMCID: PMC10518885 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x19666230330083225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
During space exploration, the human body is subjected to altered atmospheric environments and gravity, exposure to radiation, sleep disturbance, and mental pressures; all these factors are responsible for cardiovascular diseases. Under microgravity, the physiological changes related to cardiovascular diseases are the cephalic fluid shift, dramatic reduction in central venous pressure, changes in blood rheology and endothelial function, cerebrovascular abnormalities, headaches, optic disc edema, intracranial hypertension, congestion of the jugular vein, facial swelling, and loss of taste. Generally, five countermeasures are used to maintain cardiovascular health (during and after space missions), including shielding, nutritional, medicinal, exercise, and artificial gravity. This article concludes with how to reduce space missions' impact on cardiovascular health with the help of various countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhilam Pramanik
- Department of Food Technology, ITM University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Akash Kumar
- Department of Food Technology, SRM University, Sonipat, Haryana, India
| | - Lakshay Panchal
- Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana, Haryana, India
| | - Bhupendra Prajapati
- Shree S.K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ganpat University, India
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29
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Hirayama J, Hattori A, Takahashi A, Furusawa Y, Tabuchi Y, Shibata M, Nagamatsu A, Yano S, Maruyama Y, Matsubara H, Sekiguchi T, Suzuki N. Physiological consequences of space flight, including abnormal bone metabolism, space radiation injury, and circadian clock dysregulation: Implications of melatonin use and regulation as a countermeasure. J Pineal Res 2023; 74:e12834. [PMID: 36203395 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to the space environment induces a number of pathophysiological outcomes in astronauts, including bone demineralization, sleep disorders, circadian clock dysregulation, cardiovascular and metabolic dysfunction, and reduced immune system function. A recent report describing experiments aboard the Space Shuttle mission, STS-132, showed that the level of melatonin, a hormone that provides the biochemical signal of darkness, was decreased during microgravity in an in vitro culture model. Additionally, abnormal lighting conditions in outer space, such as low light intensity in orbital spacecraft and the altered 24-h light-dark cycles, may result in the dysregulation of melatonin rhythms and the misalignment of the circadian clock from sleep and work schedules in astronauts. Studies on Earth have demonstrated that melatonin regulates various physiological functions including bone metabolism. These data suggest that the abnormal regulation of melatonin in outer space may contribute to pathophysiological conditions of astronauts. In addition, experiments with high-linear energy transfer radiation, a ground-based model of space radiation, showed that melatonin may serve as a protectant against space radiation. Gene expression profiling using an in vitro culture model exposed to space flight during the STS-132 mission, showed that space radiation alters the expression of DNA repair and oxidative stress response genes, indicating that melatonin counteracts the expression of these genes responsive to space radiation to promote cell survival. These findings implicate the use of exogenous melatonin and the regulation of endogenous melatonin as countermeasures for the physiological consequences of space flight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Hirayama
- Department of Clinical Engineering, Faculty of Health Sciences & Division of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Sustainable Systems Science, Komatsu University, Komatsu, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Hattori
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Ichikawa, Japan
| | | | - Yukihiro Furusawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Toyama Prefectural University, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Tabuchi
- Life Science Research Center, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shibata
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Ichikawa, Japan
| | | | - Sachiko Yano
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yusuke Maruyama
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Hajime Matsubara
- Noto Center for Fisheries Science and Technology, Kanazawa University, Noto-cho, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Toshio Sekiguchi
- Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Noto-cho, Japan
| | - Nobuo Suzuki
- Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Noto-cho, Japan
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30
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Prolonged Exposure to Simulated Microgravity Changes Release of Small Extracellular Vesicle in Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416095. [PMID: 36555738 PMCID: PMC9781806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer incidence worldwide and among the five leading causes of cancer mortality. Despite major improvements in early detection and new treatment approaches, the need for better outcomes and quality of life for patients is still high. Extracellular vesicles play an important role in tumor biology, as they are able to transfer information between cells of different origins and locations. Their potential value as biomarkers or for targeted tumor therapy is apparent. In this study, we analyzed the supernatants of MCF-7 breast cancer cells, which were harvested following 5 or 10 days of simulated microgravity on a Random Positioning Machine (RPM). The primary results showed a substantial increase in released vesicles following incubation under simulated microgravity at both time points. The distribution of subpopulations regarding their surface protein expression is also altered; the minimal changes between the time points hint at an early adaption. This is the first step in gaining further insight into the mechanisms of tumor progression, metastasis, the education of the tumor microenvironments, and preparation of the metastatic niche. Additionally, this may lighten up the processes of the rapid cellular adaptions in the organisms of space travelers during spaceflights.
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Liu J, Leng F, Gao Y, He W, Wang J, Xian CJ, Ma H, Chen K. Protection of primary cilia is an effective countermeasure against the impairment of osteoblast function induced by simulated microgravity. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 27:36-51. [PMID: 36512344 PMCID: PMC9806295 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17628] [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: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanism for the microgravity-induced decrease in bone formation remains unclear and there is a lack of effective specific preventative therapies. We recently reported that primary cilia of osteoblasts became shorter and even disappeared when the cells were exposed to random positioning machine (RPM)-simulated microgravity and that the microgravity-induced loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts could be attenuated when the resorption of primary cilia was prevented by treatment with 0.1 μM cytochalasin D. In the current study, it was further found that the loss of the osteogenic capacity of rat calvarial osteoblasts (ROBs) was associated with the inhibition of the BMP-2/Smad1/5/8 signalling pathway, of which most of the signalling proteins including BMP-2, BMPRII, Smad1/5/8 and p-Smad1/5/8 were found localized to primary cilia. Accompanying the resorption of primary cilia following the cells being exposed to simulated microgravity, the expression levels of these signalling proteins were reduced significantly. Furthermore, the expression of miRNA-129-3p, a microRNA previously reported to control cilium biogenesis, was found to be reduced quickly and changed in a similar tendency with the length of primary cilia. Moreover, overexpression of miRNA-129-3p in ROBs significantly attenuated microgravity-induced inhibition of BMP-2 signalling and loss of osteogenic differentiation and mineralization. These results indicated the important role of miRNA-129-3p in microgravity-induced resorption of primary cilia of osteoblasts and the potential of replenishing the miRNA-129-3p as an effective countermeasure against microgravity-induced loss of primary cilia and impairment of osteoblast function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support ForcePeople's Liberation Army of ChinaLanzhouChina
| | - Fei‐Fan Leng
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Life Science and EngineeringLanzhou University of TechnologyLanzhouChina
| | - Yu‐Hai Gao
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support ForcePeople's Liberation Army of ChinaLanzhouChina
| | - Wen‐Fang He
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support ForcePeople's Liberation Army of ChinaLanzhouChina
| | - Ju‐Fang Wang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Space RadiobiologyInstitute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of SciencesLanzhouChina
| | - Cory J. Xian
- UniSA Clinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Hui‐Ping Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support ForcePeople's Liberation Army of ChinaLanzhouChina
| | - Ke‐Ming Chen
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support ForcePeople's Liberation Army of ChinaLanzhouChina
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Seoane-Viaño I, Ong JJ, Basit AW, Goyanes A. To infinity and beyond: Strategies for fabricating medicines in outer space. Int J Pharm X 2022; 4:100121. [PMID: 35782363 PMCID: PMC9240807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2022.100121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in next generation spacecrafts have reignited public excitement over life beyond Earth. However, to safeguard the health and safety of humans in the hostile environment of space, innovation in pharmaceutical manufacturing and drug delivery deserves urgent attention. In this review/commentary, the current state of medicines provision in space is explored, accompanied by a forward look on the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing in outer space. The hazards associated with spaceflight, and their corresponding medical problems, are first briefly discussed. Subsequently, the infeasibility of present-day medicines provision systems for supporting deep space exploration is examined. The existing knowledge gaps on the altered clinical effects of medicines in space are evaluated, and suggestions are provided on how clinical trials in space might be conducted. An envisioned model of on-site production and delivery of medicines in space is proposed, referencing emerging technologies (e.g. Chemputing, synthetic biology, and 3D printing) being developed on Earth that may be adapted for extra-terrestrial use. This review concludes with a critical analysis on the regulatory considerations necessary to facilitate the adoption of these technologies and proposes a framework by which these may be enforced. In doing so, this commentary aims to instigate discussions on the pharmaceutical needs of deep space exploration, and strategies on how these may be met. Space is a hostile environment that threatens human health and drug stability. Data on the behaviour of medicines in space is critical but lacking. Novel drug manufacturing and delivery strategies are needed to safeguard crewmembers’ safety. Chemputing, synthetic biology, and 3D printing are examples of such emerging technologies. A regulatory framework for space medicines must be implemented to assure quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iria Seoane-Viaño
- Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Paraquasil Group (GI-2109), Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Jun Jie Ong
- Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Abdul W. Basit
- Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
- FabRx Ltd., 3 Romney Road, Ashford, Kent TN24 0RW, UK
- Corresponding authors at: Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK.
| | - Alvaro Goyanes
- Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
- FabRx Ltd., 3 Romney Road, Ashford, Kent TN24 0RW, UK
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+D Farma Group (GI-1645), Facultad de Farmacia, The Institute of Materials (iMATUS) and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
- Corresponding authors at: Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK.
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Changes in interstitial fluid flow, mass transport and the bone cell response in microgravity and normogravity. Bone Res 2022; 10:65. [PMID: 36411278 PMCID: PMC9678891 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-022-00234-9] [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: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, our scientific interest in spaceflight has grown exponentially and resulted in a thriving area of research, with hundreds of astronauts spending months of their time in space. A recent shift toward pursuing territories farther afield, aiming at near-Earth asteroids, the Moon, and Mars combined with the anticipated availability of commercial flights to space in the near future, warrants continued understanding of the human physiological processes and response mechanisms when in this extreme environment. Acute skeletal loss, more severe than any bone loss seen on Earth, has significant implications for deep space exploration, and it remains elusive as to why there is such a magnitude of difference between bone loss on Earth and loss in microgravity. The removal of gravity eliminates a critical primary mechano-stimulus, and when combined with exposure to both galactic and solar cosmic radiation, healthy human tissue function can be negatively affected. An additional effect found in microgravity, and one with limited insight, involves changes in dynamic fluid flow. Fluids provide the most fundamental way to transport chemical and biochemical elements within our bodies and apply an essential mechano-stimulus to cells. Furthermore, the cell cytoplasm is not a simple liquid, and fluid transport phenomena together with viscoelastic deformation of the cytoskeleton play key roles in cell function. In microgravity, flow behavior changes drastically, and the impact on cells within the porous system of bone and the influence of an expanding level of adiposity are not well understood. This review explores the role of interstitial fluid motion and solute transport in porous bone under two different conditions: normogravity and microgravity.
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Hao Y, Lu L, Liu A, Lin X, Xiao L, Kong X, Li K, Liang F, Xiong J, Qu L, Li Y, Li J. Integrating bioinformatic strategies in spatial life science research. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:bbac415. [PMID: 36198665 PMCID: PMC9677476 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As space exploration programs progress, manned space missions will become more frequent and farther away from Earth, putting a greater emphasis on astronaut health. Through the collaborative efforts of researchers from various countries, the effect of the space environment factors on living systems is gradually being uncovered. Although a large number of interconnected research findings have been produced, their connection seems to be confused, and many unknown effects are left to be discovered. Simultaneously, several valuable data resources have emerged, accumulating data measuring biological effects in space that can be used to further investigate the unknown biological adaptations. In this review, the previous findings and their correlations are sorted out to facilitate the understanding of biological adaptations to space and the design of countermeasures. The biological effect measurement methods/data types are also organized to provide references for experimental design and data analysis. To aid deeper exploration of the data resources, we summarized common characteristics of the data generated from longitudinal experiments, outlined challenges or caveats in data analysis and provided corresponding solutions by recommending bioinformatics strategies and available models/tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Hao
- Key Laboratory of DGHD, MOE, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liang Lu
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Anna Liu
- Key Laboratory of DGHD, MOE, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xue Lin
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Xiao
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Xiaoyue Kong
- Key Laboratory of DGHD, MOE, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kai Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Fengji Liang
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Jianghui Xiong
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Lina Qu
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Yinghui Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, No. 26 Beiqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory of DGHD, MOE, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Mu X, He W, Rivera VAM, De Alba RAD, Newman DJ, Zhang YS. Small tissue chips with big opportunities for space medicine. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2022; 35:150-157. [PMID: 36336360 PMCID: PMC11016463 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The spaceflight environment, including microgravity and radiation, may have considerable effects on the health and performance of astronauts, especially for long-duration and Martian missions. Conventional on-ground and in-space experimental approaches have been employed to investigate the comprehensive biological effects of the spaceflight environment. As a class of recently emerging bioengineered in vitro models, tissue chips are characterized by a small footprint, potential automation, and the recapitulation of tissue-level physiology, thus promising to help provide molecular and cellular insights into space medicine. Here, we briefly review the technical advantages of tissue chips and discuss specific on-chip physiological recapitulations. Several tissue chips have been launched into space, and more are poised to come through multi-agency collaborations, implying an increasingly important role of tissue chips in space medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Mu
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA; Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, IA 52242, USA
| | - Weishen He
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Victoria Abril Manjarrez Rivera
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Raul Armando Duran De Alba
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Dava J Newman
- MIT Media Lab, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
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Wang R, Shan H, Zhang G, Li Q, Wang J, Yan Q, Li E, Diao Y, Wei L. An inulin-type fructan (AMP1-1) from Atractylodes macrocephala with anti-weightlessness bone loss activity. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 294:119742. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Multi-system responses to altered gravity and spaceflight: Insights from Drosophila melanogaster. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104880. [PMID: 36126744 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
NASA is planning to resume human-crewed lunar missions and lay the foundation for human exploration to Mars. However, our knowledge of the overall effects of long-duration spaceflight on human physiology is limited. During spaceflight, astronauts are exposed to multiple risk factors, including gravitational changes, ionizing radiation, physiological stress, and altered circadian lighting. These factors contribute to pathophysiological responses that target different organ systems in the body. This review discusses the advancements in gravitational biology using Drosophila melanogaster, one of the first organisms to be launched into space. As a well-established spaceflight model organism, fruit flies have yielded significant information, including neurobehavioral, aging, immune, cardiovascular, developmental, and multi-omics changes across tissues and developmental stages, as detailed in this review.
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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: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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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Real and Simulated Microgravity: Focus on Mammalian Extracellular Matrix. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12091343. [PMID: 36143379 PMCID: PMC9501067 DOI: 10.3390/life12091343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of gravitational loading is a pivotal risk factor during space flights. Biomedical studies indicate that because of the prolonged effect of microgravity, humans experience bone mass loss, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular insufficiency, and sensory motor coordination disorders. These findings demonstrate the essential role of gravity in human health quality. The physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms of an acute response to microgravity at various levels (molecular, cellular, tissue, and physiological) and subsequent adaptation are intensively studied. Under the permanent gravity of the Earth, multicellular organisms have developed a multi-component tissue mechanosensitive system which includes cellular (nucleo- and cytoskeleton) and extracellular (extracellular matrix, ECM) “mechanosensory” elements. These compartments are coordinated due to specialized integrin-based protein complexes, forming a distinctive mechanosensitive unit. Under the lack of continuous gravitational loading, this unit becomes a substrate for adaptation processes, acting as a gravisensitive unit. Since the space flight conditions limit large-scale research in space, simulation models on Earth are of particular importance for elucidating the mechanisms that provide a response to microgravity. This review describes current state of art concerning mammalian ECM as a gravisensitive unit component under real and simulated microgravity and discusses the directions of further research in this field.
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Horeau M, Ropert M, Mulder E, Tank J, Frings-Meuthen P, Armbrecht G, Loréal O, Derbré F. Iron Metabolism Regulation in Females and Males Exposed to Simulated Microgravity: results from the Randomized Trial AGBRESA. Am J Clin Nutr 2022; 116:1430-1440. [PMID: 36026525 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqac205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Iron metabolism imbalance could contribute to physical deconditioning experienced by astronauts due to its essential role in energy metabolism, cellular respiration, and oxygen transport. OBJECTIVES In this clinical exploratory study, we wanted to determine whether artificial gravity (AG) training modulated iron metabolism, red blood cell indices, and body lean mass in male and female healthy participants exposed to head-down tilt (HDT) bed rest, the reference ground-based model of microgravity. METHODS We recruited 8 female and 16 male healthy participants who were all exposed to HDT bed rest for 60 days. In addition, they were assigned to three experimental groups (n = 8/each): controls, continuous AG training in a short-arm centrifuge (1×30 min/day), and intermittent AG training (6 × 5 min/day). RESULTS The iron metabolism responses to simulated microgravity of AG training groups do not significantly differ from the responses of controls. Independently from AG, we found that both serum iron (+31.3%, P = 0.027) and transferrin saturation levels (+28.4%, P = 0.009) increased in males after 6 days of HDT bed rest, as well as serum hepcidin levels (+36.9% P = 0.005). The increase of transferrin saturation levels persisted after 57 days of HDT bed rest (+13.5%, P = 0.026), suggesting that long-term exposure to microgravity sustainably increases serum iron availability in males, and consequently the risk of iron excess or misdistribution. In females, 6 and 57 days of HDT bed rest did not significantly change serum iron, transferrin saturation, and hepcidin levels. CONCLUSIONS The data from this exploratory study suggest that 1) AG training does not influence the iron metabolism responses to microgravity; 2) iron metabolism parameters, especially iron availability for cells, are significantly increased in males, but not in females, exposed to long-term simulated microgravity. Due to the small sample size of females, we nevertheless must be cautious before concluding that iron metabolism could differently respond to microgravity in females. Clinical trial registry number: DRKS00015677.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Horeau
- Laboratory "Movement Sport and Health Sciences" EA7470, University of Rennes/ENS Rennes, France.,INSERM, University of Rennes, INRAE, UMR 1241, AEM2 platform, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer (NuMeCan) institute, Rennes, France
| | - Martine Ropert
- INSERM, University of Rennes, INRAE, UMR 1241, AEM2 platform, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer (NuMeCan) institute, Rennes, France.,Department of Biochemistry, CHU Rennes, France
| | - Edwin Mulder
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Jens Tank
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Petra Frings-Meuthen
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Gabriele Armbrecht
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Radiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Olivier Loréal
- INSERM, University of Rennes, INRAE, UMR 1241, AEM2 platform, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer (NuMeCan) institute, Rennes, France
| | - Frédéric Derbré
- Laboratory "Movement Sport and Health Sciences" EA7470, University of Rennes/ENS Rennes, France
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Kluis L, Patel R, Thompson WK, Lewandowski B, Diaz-Artiles A. The impact of stance during heel raises on the hybrid ultimate lifting kit (HULK) device: A future microgravity exercise machine. Front Physiol 2022; 13:943443. [PMID: 36082220 PMCID: PMC9445131 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.943443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extended missions in microgravity, such as those on the International Space Station (ISS) or future missions to Mars, can result in the physiological deconditioning of astronauts. Current mitigation strategies include a regimented diet in addition to resistance training paired with aerobic exercise. With the increased effort toward long duration space missions, there is room to optimize the cost, required time of use, and mass of exercise equipment. This research effort focuses on understanding the biomechanics of Heel Raise (HR) exercises while using the Hybrid Ultimate Lifting Kit (HULK) device, an exercise device designed to optimize volume and functionality. Using the biomechanics tool OpenSim, the effect of HR foot stance (15° inward, 15° outward, and straight) was assessed by analyzing kinematic and kinetic data. In particular, we analyzed peak joint angles, range of motion, joint moments, and angular impulses of a single subject. Preliminary results indicated no significant differences in terms of ankle/metatarsophalangeal/subtalar joint angles, range of motion, joint moments, and angular impulses between foot stances. In addition, loaded HR exercises were compared to body weight HR exercises without the HULK device. Finally, recommendations are made towards an optimal HR routine for long-duration space missions. The impact to health and rehabilitation on Earth is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan Kluis
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ravi Patel
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | | | | | - Ana Diaz-Artiles
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Ana Diaz-Artiles,
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Baran R, Wehland M, Schulz H, Heer M, Infanger M, Grimm D. Microgravity-Related Changes in Bone Density and Treatment Options: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158650. [PMID: 35955775 PMCID: PMC9369243 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Space travelers are exposed to microgravity (µg), which induces enhanced bone loss compared to the age-related bone loss on Earth. Microgravity promotes an increased bone turnover, and this obstructs space exploration. This bone loss can be slowed down by exercise on treadmills or resistive apparatus. The objective of this systematic review is to provide a current overview of the state of the art of the field of bone loss in space and possible treatment options thereof. A total of 482 unique studies were searched through PubMed and Scopus, and 37 studies met the eligibility criteria. The studies showed that, despite increased bone formation during µg, the increase in bone resorption was greater. Different types of exercise and pharmacological treatments with bisphosphonates, RANKL antibody (receptor activator of nuclear factor κβ ligand antibody), proteasome inhibitor, pan-caspase inhibitor, and interleukin-6 monoclonal antibody decrease bone resorption and promote bone formation. Additionally, recombinant irisin, cell-free fat extract, cyclic mechanical stretch-treated bone mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes, and strontium-containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles also show some positive effects on bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronni Baran
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Markus Wehland
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Herbert Schulz
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Martina Heer
- IU International University of Applied Sciences, 99084 Erfurt, Germany;
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Nutritional Physiology, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Swain P, Mortreux M, Laws JM, Kyriacou H, De Martino E, Winnard A, Caplan N. Bone deconditioning during partial weight-bearing in rodents - A systematic review and meta-analysis. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2022; 34:87-103. [PMID: 35940692 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.07.003] [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: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Space agencies are preparing to send humans to the Moon (16% Earth's gravity) and Mars (38% Earth's gravity), however, there is limited evidence regarding the effects of hypogravity on the skeletal system. A novel rodent partial weight-bearing (PWB) model may provide insight into how human bone responds to hypogravity. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review investigating the effect of PWB on the structure and function of rodent bone. Five online databases were searched with the following inclusion criteria: population (rodents), intervention (PWB for ≥1-week), control (full weight-bearing), outcomes (bone structure/function), and study design (animal intervention). Of the 2,993 studies identified, eight were included. The main findings were that partial weight-bearing exposure for 21-28 days at 20%, 40%, and 70% of full loading causes: (1) loss of bone mineral density, (2) loss of trabecular bone volume, thickness, number, and increased separation, (3) loss of cortical area and thickness, and 4) reduced bone stiffness and strength. These findings predominately relate the tibia/femur of young/mature female mice, however, their deconditioning response appeared similar, but not identical, to male rats. A dose-response trend was frequently observed between the magnitude of deconditioning and PWB level. The deconditioning patterns in PWB resembled those in rodents and humans exposed to microgravity and microgravity analogs. The present findings suggest that countermeasures against bone deconditioning may be required for humans exploring the Lunar and Martian surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Swain
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom.
| | - Marie Mortreux
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathan M Laws
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Harry Kyriacou
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico De Martino
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Winnard
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Caplan
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
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Jin X, Wang H, Liang X, Ru K, Deng X, Gao S, Qiu W, Huai Y, Zhang J, Lai L, Li F, Miao Z, Zhang W, Qian A. Calycosin prevents bone loss induced by hindlimb unloading. NPJ Microgravity 2022; 8:23. [PMID: 35794112 PMCID: PMC9259590 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-022-00210-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone loss induced by microgravity exposure seriously endangers the astronauts’ health, but its countermeasures still have certain limitations. The study aims to find potential protective drugs for the prevention of the microgravity-induced bone loss. Here, we utilized the network pharmacology approach to discover a natural compound calycosin by constructing the compound-target interaction network and analyzing the topological characteristics of the network. Furthermore, the hind limb unloading (HLU) rats’ model was conducted to investigate the potential effects of calycosin in the prevention of bone loss induced by microgravity. The results indicated that calycosin treatment group significantly increased the bone mineral density (BMD), ameliorated the microstructure of femoral trabecular bone, the thickness of cortical bone and the biomechanical properties of the bone in rats, compared that in the HLU group. The analysis of bone turnover markers in serum showed that both the bone formation markers and bone resorption markers decreased after calycosin treatment. Moreover, we found that bone remodeling-related cytokines in serum including IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IL-4, IL-10 and TNF-α were partly recovered after calycosin treatment compared with HLU group. In conclusion, calycosin partly recovered hind limb unloading-induced bone loss through the regulation of bone remodeling. These results provided the evidence that calycosin might play an important role in maintaining bone mass in HLU rats, indicating its promising application in the treatment of bone loss induced by microgravity.
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The interplay between BMU activity linked to mechanical stress, specific surface and inhibitory theory dictate bone mass distribution: Predictions from a 3D computational model. Comput Biol Med 2022; 148:105898. [DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.105898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Strollo F, Gentile S, Pipicelli AMV, Mambro A, Monici M, Magni P. Space Flight-Promoted Insulin Resistance as a Possible Disruptor of Wound Healing. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:868999. [PMID: 35646861 PMCID: PMC9136162 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.868999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
During space flight, especially when prolonged, exposure to microgravity results in a number of pathophysiological changes such as bone loss, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular and metabolic changes and impaired wound healing, among others. Interestingly, chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance appear to be pivotal events linking many of them. Interestingly, real and experimental microgravity is also associated to altered wound repair, a process that is becoming increasingly important in view of prolonged space flights. The association of insulin resistance and wound healing impairment may be hypothesized from some dysmetabolic conditions, like the metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus and abdominal/visceral obesity, where derangement of glucose and lipid metabolism, greater low-grade inflammation, altered adipokine secretion and adipocyte dysfunction converge to produce systemic effects that also negatively involve wound healing. Indeed, wound healing impairment after traumatic events and surgery in space remains a relevant concern for space agencies. Further studies are required to clarify the molecular connection between insulin resistance and wound healing during space flight, addressing the ability of physical, endocrine/metabolic, and pharmacological countermeasures, as well as nutritional strategies to prevent long-term detrimental effects on tissue repair linked to insulin resistance. Based on these considerations, this paper discusses the pathophysiological links between microgravity-associated insulin resistance and impaired wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Strollo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: F. Strollo,
| | - S. Gentile
- Department of Internal Medicine, Campania University “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy and Nefrocenter Research Network, Naples, Italy
| | - A. M. V. Pipicelli
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant Unit, Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, “A. Gemelli” Sacred Heart Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - A. Mambro
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Pertini General Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Monici
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, ASA Campus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - P. Magni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Multimedica Hospital, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
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Exposure to Random Positioning Machine Alters the Mineralization Process and PTX3 Expression in the SAOS-2 Cell Line. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12050610. [PMID: 35629278 PMCID: PMC9143356 DOI: 10.3390/life12050610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone loss is among the most frequent changes seen in astronauts during space missions. Although weightlessness is known to cause high bone resorption and a rapid decrease in bone minerals and calcium, the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. In our work, we investigated the influence of random positioning machine (RPM) exposure on the mineralization process in the SAOS-2 cell line, in osteogenic and non-osteogenic conditions, by examining changes in their mineralizing capacity and in the expression of PTX3, a positive regulator of bone mineralization. We analyzed cell viability by MTS assay and the mineralization process after staining with Toluidine Blue and Alizarin Red, while PTX3 expression was investigated by immunocytochemistry and western blotting analysis. Our results showed that RPM exposure increased cells’ viability and improved their mineralizing competence when not treated with osteogenic cocktail. In contrast, in osteogenic conditions, cells exposed to RPM showed a reduction in the presence of calcification-like structures, mineral deposits and PTX3 expression, suggesting that the effects of RPM exposure on mineralizing matrix deposition depend on the presence of osteogenic factors in the culture medium. Further studies will be needed to clarify the role of potential mineralization markers in the cellular response to the simulated biological effects of microgravity, paving the way for a new approach to treating osteoporosis in astronauts exposed to spaceflight.
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Grimm D. Microgravity and Space Medicine 2.0. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084456. [PMID: 35457274 PMCID: PMC9029223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This Special Issue (SI), "Microgravity and Space Medicine 2 [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Grimm
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark; ; Tel.: +45-2137-9702; Fax: +45-8612-8804
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, University Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Pfälzer Str. 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
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Tesei D, Jewczynko A, Lynch AM, Urbaniak C. Understanding the Complexities and Changes of the Astronaut Microbiome for Successful Long-Duration Space Missions. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12040495. [PMID: 35454986 PMCID: PMC9031868 DOI: 10.3390/life12040495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During space missions, astronauts are faced with a variety of challenges that are unique to spaceflight and that have been known to cause physiological changes in humans over a period of time. Several of these changes occur at the microbiome level, a complex ensemble of microbial communities residing in various anatomic sites of the human body, with a pivotal role in regulating the health and behavior of the host. The microbiome is essential for day-to-day physiological activities, and alterations in microbiome composition and function have been linked to various human diseases. For these reasons, understanding the impact of spaceflight and space conditions on the microbiome of astronauts is important to assess significant health risks that can emerge during long-term missions and to develop countermeasures. Here, we review various conditions that are caused by long-term space exploration and discuss the role of the microbiome in promoting or ameliorating these conditions, as well as space-related factors that impact microbiome composition. The topics explored pertain to microgravity, radiation, immunity, bone health, cognitive function, gender differences and pharmacomicrobiomics. Connections are made between the trifecta of spaceflight, the host and the microbiome, and the significance of these interactions for successful long-term space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Tesei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1190 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Anna Jewczynko
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
| | - Anne M. Lynch
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Graduate Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Camilla Urbaniak
- ZIN Technologies Inc., Middleburg Heights, OH 44130, USA
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Correspondence:
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Lee S, Fujita C, Satoh A. Baseline Body Composition and Physical Activity Level Recommended for Optimal Bone Mineral Density in Young Women. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS 2022; 3:351-358. [PMID: 35415709 PMCID: PMC8994430 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2021.0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sangun Lee
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aomori University of Health and Welfare, Aomori, Japan
- Aomori University of Health and Welfare Graduate School of Health Sciences, Aomori, Japan
| | - Chikako Fujita
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aomori University of Health and Welfare, Aomori, Japan
| | - Atsuko Satoh
- Department of Nursing, Junior College, Hirosaki University of Health and Welfare, Hirosaki, Japan
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