1
|
Mahmood R, Shaik T, Kaur IP, Gupta V, Shaik A, Anamika F, Garg N, Jain R. Cardiovascular Challenges Beyond Earth: Investigating the Impact of Space Travel on Astronauts' Cardiovascular Health. Cardiol Rev 2024:00045415-990000000-00194. [PMID: 38230953 DOI: 10.1097/crd.0000000000000642] [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] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
In the coming decades, as humanity aims to establish a presence on Mars, there is a growing significance in comprehending, monitoring, and controlling the diverse health challenges arising from space exploration. The extended exposure to microgravity during space missions leads to various physical alterations in astronauts, such as shifts in bodily fluids, reduced plasma volume, loss of bone density, muscle wasting, and cardiovascular deconditioning. These changes can ultimately lead to orthostatic intolerance, underscoring the increasing importance of addressing these health risks. Astronauts are exposed to cosmic radiation consisting of high-energy particles from various sources, including solar cosmic rays and galactic cosmic rays. These radiations can impact the electrical signals in the heart, potentially causing irregular heart rhythms. Understanding the risks to the heart and blood circulation brought on by exposure to space radiation and the overall stress of spaceflight is essential and this article reviews the cardiovascular effects of space travel on astronauts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramsha Mahmood
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Avalon University School of Medicine, Willemstad, Curacao
| | - Tanveer Shaik
- From the Department of Internal Medicine, Avalon University School of Medicine, Willemstad, Curacao
| | - Inder P Kaur
- Department of Internal Medicine, Preventive Medicine Resident, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Vasu Gupta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dayanand Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | | | - Fnu Anamika
- Department of Internal Medicine, University College of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Nikita Garg
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI; and
| | - Rohit Jain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Penn State Milton S Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Caddy HT, Kelsey LJ, Parker LP, Green DJ, Doyle BJ. Modelling large scale artery haemodynamics from the heart to the eye in response to simulated microgravity. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:7. [PMID: 38218868 PMCID: PMC10787773 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00348-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated variations in haemodynamics in response to simulated microgravity across a semi-subject-specific three-dimensional (3D) continuous arterial network connecting the heart to the eye using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Using this model we simulated pulsatile blood flow in an upright Earth gravity case and a simulated microgravity case. Under simulated microgravity, regional time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS) increased and oscillatory shear index (OSI) decreased in upper body arteries, whilst the opposite was observed in the lower body. Between cases, uniform changes in TAWSS and OSI were found in the retina across diameters. This work demonstrates that 3D CFD simulations can be performed across continuously connected networks of small and large arteries. Simulated results exhibited similarities to low dimensional spaceflight simulations and measured data-specifically that blood flow and shear stress decrease towards the lower limbs and increase towards the cerebrovasculature and eyes in response to simulated microgravity, relative to an upright position in Earth gravity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harrison T Caddy
- Vascular Engineering Laboratory, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Nedlands, Australia and the UWA Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Sciences), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Lachlan J Kelsey
- Vascular Engineering Laboratory, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Nedlands, Australia and the UWA Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Louis P Parker
- FLOW, Department of Engineering Mechanics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel J Green
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Sciences), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Barry J Doyle
- Vascular Engineering Laboratory, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Nedlands, Australia and the UWA Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
- School of Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Krittanawong C, Isath A, Kaplin S, Virk HUH, Fogg S, Wang Z, Shepanek M, Scheuring RA, Lavie CJ. Cardiovascular disease in space: A systematic review. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2023; 81:33-41. [PMID: 37531984 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With expanding commercial space programs, uncertainty remains about the cardiovascular effects of space environmental exposures including microgravity, confinement, isolation, space radiation, and altered bacterial virulence. Current limited data suggests additional health threats compared to Earth. METHODS We systematically reviewed PubMed, CENTRAL, Web of Science, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for prospective studies on spaceflight and cardiovascular outcomes. Search terms combined cardiovascular disease topics with spaceflight concepts. No date or language restrictions were imposed. RESULTS 35 studies representing 2696 space travelers met inclusion criteria. Studies were grouped into spaceflight associations with: atherosclerosis, mortality, cardiac function, orthostatic intolerance, and arrhythmias. Atherosclerosis evidence was limited, with animal studies linking space radiation to endothelial damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation. However, human data showed no significantly increased atherosclerotic disease in astronauts. Mortality studies demonstrated lower cardiovascular mortality in astronauts compared to the general population however there was conflicting data. Cardiac function studies revealed physiologic ventricular atrophy, increased arterial stiffness, and altered blood flow distribution attributed to microgravity exposure. Effects appeared transient and reversible post-flight. Orthostatic intolerance studies found astronauts experienced altered heart rate variability, baroreflex response, and blood pressure changes post-flight. Arrhythmia studies showed increased ventricular ectopy during spaceflight, but limited data on long term flights. CONCLUSIONS Environmental space hazards impact the cardiovascular system through multiple mechanisms. Microgravity causes cardiac atrophy and orthostatic intolerance while space radiation may potentially accelerate atherosclerosis. Further research is needed, especially regarding long-term spaceflights.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ameesh Isath
- Department of Cardiology, Westchester Medical Centre and New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Scott Kaplin
- Cardiology Division, NYU Langone Health and NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hafeez Ul Hassan Virk
- Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute, Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, OH, USA
| | - Sonya Fogg
- Library and Learning Resource Center, Texas Heart Institute, Houston, USA
| | - Zhen Wang
- Mayo Clinic Evidence-based Practice Center, Rochester, MN, USA; Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery; Division of Health Care Policy and Research, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Marc Shepanek
- Office of the Chief Health and Medical Officer, NASA, Washington, DC 20546, USA
| | | | - Carl J Lavie
- John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, Ochsner Clinical School, The University of Queensland School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Antonsen EL, Connell E, Anton W, Reynolds RJ, Buckland DM, Van Baalen M. Updates to the NASA human system risk management process for space exploration. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:72. [PMID: 37679359 PMCID: PMC10485075 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00305-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper describes updates to NASA's approach for assessing and mitigating spaceflight-induced risks to human health and performance. This approach continues to evolve to meet dynamically changing risk environments: lunar missions are currently being designed and the ultimate destination will be Mars. Understanding the risks that astronauts will face during a Mars mission will depend on building an evidence base that informs not only how the humans respond to the challenges of the spaceflight environment, but also how systems and vehicles can be designed to support human capabilities and limitations. This publication documents updates to the risk management process used by the Human System Risk Board at NASA and includes changes to the likelihood and consequence matrix used by the board, the design reference mission categories and parameters, and the standardized evaluation of the levels of evidence that the board accepts when setting risk posture. Causal diagramming, using directed acyclic graphs, provides all stakeholders with the current understanding of how each risk proceeds from a spaceflight hazard to a mission-level outcome. This standardized approach enables improved communication among stakeholders and delineates how and where more knowledge can improve perspective of human system risks and which countermeasures can best mitigate these risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik L Antonsen
- Center for Space Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Daniel M Buckland
- Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hamada N. Noncancer Effects of Ionizing Radiation Exposure on the Eye, the Circulatory System and beyond: Developments made since the 2011 ICRP Statement on Tissue Reactions. Radiat Res 2023; 200:188-216. [PMID: 37410098 DOI: 10.1667/rade-23-00030.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
For radiation protection purposes, noncancer effects with a threshold-type dose-response relationship have been classified as tissue reactions (formerly called nonstochastic or deterministic effects), and equivalent dose limits aim to prevent occurrence of such tissue reactions. Accumulating evidence demonstrates increased risks for several late occurring noncancer effects at doses and dose rates much lower than previously considered. In 2011, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) issued a statement on tissue reactions to recommend a threshold of 0.5 Gy to the lens of the eye for cataracts and to the heart and brain for diseases of the circulatory system (DCS), independent of dose rate. Literature published thereafter continues to provide updated knowledge. Increased risks for cataracts below 0.5 Gy have been reported in several cohorts (e.g., including in those receiving protracted or chronic exposures). A dose threshold for cataracts is less evident with longer follow-up, with limited evidence available for risk of cataract removal surgery. There is emerging evidence for risk of normal-tension glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, but the long-held tenet that the lens represents among the most radiosensitive tissues in the eye and in the body seems to remain unchanged. For DCS, increased risks have been reported in various cohorts, but the existence or otherwise of a dose threshold is unclear. The level of risk is less uncertain at lower dose and lower dose rate, with the possibility that risk per unit dose is greater at lower doses and dose rates. Target organs and tissues for DCS are also unknown, but may include heart, large blood vessels and kidneys. Identification of potential factors (e.g., sex, age, lifestyle factors, coexposures, comorbidities, genetics and epigenetics) that may modify radiation risk of cataracts and DCS would be important. Other noncancer effects on the radar include neurological effects (e.g., Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and dementia) of which elevated risk has increasingly been reported. These late occurring noncancer effects tend to deviate from the definition of tissue reactions, necessitating more scientific developments to reconsider the radiation effect classification system and risk management. This paper gives an overview of historical developments made in ICRP prior to the 2011 statement and an update on relevant developments made since the 2011 ICRP statement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Hamada
- Biology and Environmental Chemistry Division, Sustainable System Research Laboratory, Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry (CRIEPI), Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chappell LJ, Rahill KM, Elgart SR. Of Men and Mice: Using Terrestrial Radiation Epidemiology Methods to Inform Analysis of Animal Models for Space Radiation Risk Assessment. Radiat Res 2023; 200:116-126. [PMID: 37212725 DOI: 10.1667/rade-22-00176.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Prediction of cancer risk from space radiation exposure is critical to ensure spaceflight crewmembers are adequately informed of the risks they face when accepting assignments to ambitious long-duration exploratory missions. Although epidemiological studies have assessed the effects of exposure to terrestrial radiation, no robust epidemiological studies of humans exposed to space radiation exist to support estimates of the risk from space radiation exposure. Mouse data derived from recent irradiation experiments provides valuable information to successfully develop mouse-based excess risks models for assessing relative biological effectiveness for heavy ions that can provide information to scale unique space radiation exposures so that excess risks estimated for terrestrial radiation can be adjusted for space radiation risk assessment. Bayesian analyses were used to simulate linear slopes for excess risk models with several different effect modifiers for attained age and sex. Relative biological effectiveness values for all-solid cancer mortality were calculated from the ratio of the heavy-ion linear slope to the gamma linear slope using the full posterior distribution and resulted in values that were substantially lower than what is currently applied in risk assessment. These analyses provide an opportunity to improve characterization of parameters used in the current NASA Space Cancer Risk (NSCR) model and generate new hypotheses for future animal experiments using out-bred mouse populations.
Collapse
|
7
|
Papadopoulos A, Kyriakou I, Incerti S, Santin G, Nieminen P, Daglis IA, Li W, Emfietzoglou D. Space radiation quality factor for Galactic Cosmic Rays and typical space mission scenarios using a microdosimetric approach. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2023; 62:221-234. [PMID: 37062024 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-023-01023-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Space radiation exposure from omnipresent Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCRs) in interplanetary space poses a serious carcinogenic risk to astronauts due to the-limited or absent-protective effect of the Earth's magnetosphere and, in particular, the terrestrial atmosphere. The radiation risk is directly influenced by the quality of the radiation, i.e., its pattern of energy deposition at the micron/DNA scale. For stochastic biological effects, radiation quality is described by the quality factor, [Formula: see text], which can be defined as a function of Linear Energy Transfer (LET) or the microdosimetric lineal energy ([Formula: see text]). In the present work, the average [Formula: see text] of GCR for different mission scenarios was calculated using a modified version of the microdosimetric Theory of Dual Radiation Action (TDRA). NASA's OLTARIS platform was utilized to generate the radiation environment behind different aluminum shielding (0-30 g/cm2) for a typical mission scenario in low-earth orbit (LEO) and in deep space. The microdosimetric lineal energy spectra of ions ([Formula: see text]) in 1 μm liquid water spheres were calculated by a generalized analytical model which considers energy-loss fluctuations and δ-ray transport inside the irradiated medium. The present TDRA-based [Formula: see text]-values for the LEO and deep space missions were found to differ by up to 10% and 14% from the corresponding ICRP-based [Formula: see text]-values and up to 3% and 6% from NASA's [Formula: see text]-model. In addition, they were found to be in good agreement with the [Formula: see text]-values measured in the International Space Station (ISS) and by the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD) which represent, respectively, a LEO and deep space orbit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Papadopoulos
- Medical Physics Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioanna Kyriakou
- Medical Physics Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sébastien Incerti
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, LP2I, UMR 5797, F-33170, Gradignan, France
| | - Giovanni Santin
- ESA/ESTEC Space Environments and Effects Section, ESTEC, Keplerlaan 1, 2200 AG, Noordwijk, ZH, The Netherlands
| | - Petteri Nieminen
- ESA/ESTEC Space Environments and Effects Section, ESTEC, Keplerlaan 1, 2200 AG, Noordwijk, ZH, The Netherlands
| | - Ioannis A Daglis
- Department of Physics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784, Athens, Greece
- Hellenic Space Center, 15231, Athens, Greece
| | - Weibo Li
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Dimitris Emfietzoglou
- Medical Physics Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bang YJ, Kim YM, Lee WJ. Circulatory disease mortality among male medical radiation workers in South Korea, 1996-2019. Scand J Work Environ Health 2023; 49:99-107. [PMID: 36309988 PMCID: PMC10577014 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between occupational radiation exposure and circulatory disease (CD) mortality among medical radiation workers. METHODS The study included 53 860 male diagnostic medical radiation workers enrolled in the National Dosimetry Registry (NDR) between 1996 and 2011 in South Korea. NDR data were linked with mortality data obtained from the national registry at the end of 2019. Observed CD mortality rates in this population were compared to those in the general population using the standardized mortality ratio (SMR). The relative risk (RR) for occupational history was estimated by use of internal comparisons, and the excess relative risk (ERR) was used to quantify the radiation dose-response relationship. RESULTS A total of 320 deaths due to CD were identified among 53 860 male medical radiation workers. The SMR of CD was significantly lower among male workers than the general population. A linear dose-response model provided an estimated ERR per 100 mGy for CD [0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.11-1.82], ischemic heart disease (1.18, 95% CI -0.69-3.05), and cerebrovascular disease (0.23, 95% CI -0.48-0.94) with a 10-years lag, showing no statistical evidence of a radiation dose-response relationship. Additional adjustments for non-radiation factors did not affect the findings on occupational radiation risk for CD mortality. Sensitivity analyses excluding workers employed <1 year or who had exposure to a cumulative badge dose of ≥1 mSv showed similar results. CONCLUSIONS Occupational radiation doses were non-significantly positively associated with CD mortality among male diagnostic medical radiation workers. However, cautious interpretation is needed due to the limitations of short follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Jin Bang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Goryeodae-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bokhari RS, Beheshti A, Blutt SE, Bowles DE, Brenner D, Britton R, Bronk L, Cao X, Chatterjee A, Clay DE, Courtney C, Fox DT, Gaber MW, Gerecht S, Grabham P, Grosshans D, Guan F, Jezuit EA, Kirsch DG, Liu Z, Maletic-Savatic M, Miller KM, Montague RA, Nagpal P, Osenberg S, Parkitny L, Pierce NA, Porada C, Rosenberg SM, Sargunas P, Sharma S, Spangler J, Tavakol DN, Thomas D, Vunjak-Novakovic G, Wang C, Whitcomb L, Young DW, Donoviel D. Looking on the horizon; potential and unique approaches to developing radiation countermeasures for deep space travel. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2022; 35:105-112. [PMID: 36336356 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Future lunar missions and beyond will require new and innovative approaches to radiation countermeasures. The Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) is focused on identifying and supporting unique approaches to reduce risks to human health and performance on future missions beyond low Earth orbit. This paper will describe three funded and complementary avenues for reducing the risk to humans from radiation exposure experienced in deep space. The first focus is on identifying new therapeutic targets to reduce the damaging effects of radiation by focusing on high throughput genetic screens in accessible, sometimes called lower, organism models. The second focus is to design innovative approaches for countermeasure development with special attention to nucleotide-based methodologies that may constitute a more agile way to design therapeutics. The final focus is to develop new and innovative ways to test radiation countermeasures in a human model system. While animal studies continue to be beneficial in the study of space radiation, they can have imperfect translation to humans. The use of three-dimensional (3D) complex in vitro models is a promising approach to aid the development of new countermeasures and personalized assessments of radiation risks. These three distinct and unique approaches complement traditional space radiation efforts and should provide future space explorers with more options to safeguard their short and long-term health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rihana S Bokhari
- Agile Decision Sciences, NRESS, Arlington, VA 22202, United States of America.
| | - Afshin Beheshti
- KBR, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, United States of America; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, United States of America
| | - Sarah E Blutt
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Dawn E Bowles
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham NC, United States of America
| | - David Brenner
- Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, United States of America
| | - Robert Britton
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Lawrence Bronk
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Xu Cao
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Anushree Chatterjee
- Sachi Bioworks, Louisville, CO 80027, United States of America; University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America
| | - Delisa E Clay
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | | | - Donald T Fox
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - M Waleed Gaber
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Sharon Gerecht
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218 United States of America; Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
| | - Peter Grabham
- Center for Radiological Research, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027 United States of America
| | - David Grosshans
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Fada Guan
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Erin A Jezuit
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - David G Kirsch
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - Zhandong Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, 1250 Moursund St. Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Mirjana Maletic-Savatic
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, 1250 Moursund St. Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Kyle M Miller
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Ruth A Montague
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - Prashant Nagpal
- Sachi Bioworks, Louisville, CO 80027, United States of America
| | - Sivan Osenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, 1250 Moursund St. Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Luke Parkitny
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, 1250 Moursund St. Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Niles A Pierce
- Division of Biology & Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States of America; Division of Engineering & Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States of America; Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Porada
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Fetal Research and Therapy Program Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States of America
| | - Susan M Rosenberg
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77303, United States of America; Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77303, United States of America; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77303, United States of America; Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77303, United States of America
| | - Paul Sargunas
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218 United States of America
| | - Sadhana Sharma
- Sachi Bioworks, Louisville, CO 80027, United States of America
| | - Jamie Spangler
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218 United States of America
| | | | - Dilip Thomas
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | | | - Chunbo Wang
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham NC, United States of America
| | - Luke Whitcomb
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, United States of America
| | - Damian W Young
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Dorit Donoviel
- Translational Research Institute for Space Health, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America; Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Miller KB, Mi KL, Nelson GA, Norman RB, Patel ZS, Huff JL. Ionizing radiation, cerebrovascular disease, and consequent dementia: A review and proposed framework relevant to space radiation exposure. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1008640. [PMID: 36388106 PMCID: PMC9640983 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1008640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Space exploration requires the characterization and management or mitigation of a variety of human health risks. Exposure to space radiation is one of the main health concerns because it has the potential to increase the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and both acute and late neurodegeneration. Space radiation-induced decrements to the vascular system may impact the risk for cerebrovascular disease and consequent dementia. These risks may be independent or synergistic with direct damage to central nervous system tissues. The purpose of this work is to review epidemiological and experimental data regarding the impact of low-to-moderate dose ionizing radiation on the central nervous system and the cerebrovascular system. A proposed framework outlines how space radiation-induced effects on the vasculature may increase risk for both cerebrovascular dysfunction and neural and cognitive adverse outcomes. The results of this work suggest that there are multiple processes by which ionizing radiation exposure may impact cerebrovascular function including increases in oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, endothelial cell dysfunction, arterial stiffening, atherosclerosis, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Cerebrovascular adverse outcomes may also promote neural and cognitive adverse outcomes. However, there are many gaps in both the human and preclinical evidence base regarding the long-term impact of ionizing radiation exposure on brain health due to heterogeneity in both exposures and outcomes. The unique composition of the space radiation environment makes the translation of the evidence base from terrestrial exposures to space exposures difficult. Additional investigation and understanding of the impact of low-to-moderate doses of ionizing radiation including high (H) atomic number (Z) and energy (E) (HZE) ions on the cerebrovascular system is needed. Furthermore, investigation of how decrements in vascular systems may contribute to development of neurodegenerative diseases in independent or synergistic pathways is important for protecting the long-term health of astronauts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gregory A. Nelson
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biomedical Engineering Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
- KBR Inc., Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ryan B. Norman
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA, United States
| | - Zarana S. Patel
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
- KBR Inc., Houston, TX, United States
| | - Janice L. Huff
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cordero RJB, Dragotakes Q, Friello PJ, Casadevall A. Melanin protects Cryptococcus neoformans from spaceflight effects. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2022; 14:679-685. [PMID: 35852045 PMCID: PMC9326845 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
As human activity in space continues to increase, understanding how biological assets respond to spaceflight conditions is becoming more important. Spaceflight conditions include exposure to ionizing radiation, microgravity, spacecraft vibrations and hypervelocity; all of which can affect the viability of biological organisms. Previous studies have shown that melanin-producing fungi are capable of surviving the vacuum of space and Mars-simulated conditions in Low Earth Orbit. This survival has been associated in part with the protective effects of melanin, but a comparison of fungal viability in the presence or absence of melanin following spaceflight has never been tested. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects of melanin by comparing the viability of melanized and non-melanized clones of Cryptococcus neoformans yeasts following a roundtrip to the International Space Station. Yeast colonies were placed inside two MixStix silicone tubes; one stayed on Earth and the other was transported inside for 29 days before returning to Earth. Post-flight analysis based on colony-forming unit numbers shows that melanized yeast viability was 50% higher than non-melanized yeasts, while no difference was observed between the Earth-bound control samples. The results suggest that fungal melanin could increase the lifespan of biological assets in space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radames J. B. Cordero
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology DepartmentJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMD21205USA
| | - Quigly Dragotakes
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology DepartmentJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMD21205USA
| | | | - Arturo Casadevall
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology DepartmentJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMD21205USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Extraterrestrial Gynecology: Could Spaceflight Increase the Risk of Developing Cancer in Female Astronauts? An Updated Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137465. [PMID: 35806469 PMCID: PMC9267413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137465] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Outer space is an extremely hostile environment for human life, with ionizing radiation from galactic cosmic rays and microgravity posing the most significant hazards to the health of astronauts. Spaceflight has also been shown to have an impact on established cancer hallmarks, possibly increasing carcinogenic risk. Terrestrially, women have a higher incidence of radiation-induced cancers, largely driven by lung, thyroid, breast, and ovarian cancers, and therefore, historically, they have been permitted to spend significantly less time in space than men. In the present review, we focus on the effects of microgravity and radiation on the female reproductive system, particularly gynecological cancer. The aim is to provide a summary of the research that has been carried out related to the risk of gynecological cancer, highlighting what further studies are needed to pave the way for safer exploration class missions, as well as postflight screening and management of women astronauts following long-duration spaceflight.
Collapse
|
13
|
Charvat JM, Leonard D, Barlow CE, DeFina LF, Willis BL, Lee SMC, Stenger MB, Mercaldo SF, Van Baalen M. Long-term Cardiovascular Risk in Astronauts: Comparing NASA Mission Astronauts With a Healthy Cohort From the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study. Mayo Clin Proc 2022; 97:1237-1246. [PMID: 35787853 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the long-term cardiovascular disease risk of astronauts with spaceflight exposure compared with a well-matched cohort. METHODS National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts are selected into their profession based upon education, unique skills, and health and are exposed to cardiovascular disease risk factors during spaceflight. The Cooper Center Longitudinal Study (CCLS) is a generally healthy cohort from a preventive medicine clinic in Dallas, Texas. Using a matched cohort design, astronauts who were selected beginning April 1, 1959, (and each subsequent selection class through 2009) and exposed to spaceflight were matched to CCLS participants who met astronaut selection criteria; 1514 CCLS participants matched to 303 astronauts in a 5-to-1 ratio on sex, date of birth, and age. The outcome of cardiovascular mortality through December 31, 2016, was determined by death certificate or National Death Index. RESULTS There were 11 deaths caused by cardiovascular disease (CVD) among astronauts and 46 among CCLS participants. There was no evidence of increased mortality risk in astronauts (hazard ratio [HR]=1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.50 to 2.45) with adjustment for baseline cardiovascular covariates. However, the secondary outcome of CVD events showed an increased adjusted risk in astronauts (HR=2.41; 95% CI, 1.26 to 4.63). CONCLUSION No increased risk of CVD mortality was observed in astronauts with spaceflight exposure compared with a well-matched cohort, but there was evidence of increased total CVD events. Given that the duration of spaceflight will increase, particularly on missions to Mars, continued surveillance and mitigation of CVD risk is needed to ensure the safety of those who venture into space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Stuart M C Lee
- JSC Cardiovascular and Vision Laboratory, KBR, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Sarah F Mercaldo
- Lifetime Surveillance of Astronaut Health, KBR, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mary Van Baalen
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chang PY, Bakke J, Rosen CJ, Bjornstad KA, Mao JH, Blakely EA. Heavy-Ion-Induced Lung Tumors: Dose- & LET-Dependence. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12060907. [PMID: 35743938 PMCID: PMC9225356 DOI: 10.3390/life12060907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a limited published literature reporting dose-dependent data for in vivo tumorigenesis prevalence in different organs of various rodent models after exposure to low, single doses of charged particle beams. The goal of this study is to reduce uncertainties in estimating particle-radiation-induced risk of lung tumorigenesis for manned travel into deep space by improving our understanding of the high-LET-dependent dose-response from exposure to individual ion beams after low particle doses (0.03–0.80 Gy). Female CB6F1 mice were irradiated with low single doses of either oxygen, silicon, titanium, or iron ions at various energies to cover a range of dose-averaged LET values from 0.2–193 keV/µm, using 137Cs γ-rays as the reference radiation. Sham-treated controls were included in each individual experiment totally 398 animals across the 5 studies reported. Based on power calculations, between 40–156 mice were included in each of the treatment groups. Tumor prevalence at 16 months after radiation exposure was determined and compared to the age-matched, sham-treated animals. Results indicate that lung tumor prevalence is non-linear as a function of dose with suggestions of threshold doses depending on the LET of the beams. Histopathological evaluations of the tumors showed that the majority of tumors were benign bronchioloalveolar adenomas with occasional carcinomas or lymphosarcomas which may have resulted from metastases from other sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Polly Y. Chang
- Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (P.Y.C.); (J.B.)
| | - James Bakke
- Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA; (P.Y.C.); (J.B.)
| | - Chris J. Rosen
- Biological Systems & Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (C.J.R.); (K.A.B.); (J.-H.M.)
| | - Kathleen A. Bjornstad
- Biological Systems & Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (C.J.R.); (K.A.B.); (J.-H.M.)
| | - Jian-Hua Mao
- Biological Systems & Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (C.J.R.); (K.A.B.); (J.-H.M.)
| | - Eleanor A. Blakely
- Biological Systems & Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (C.J.R.); (K.A.B.); (J.-H.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Goukassian D, Arakelyan A, Brojakowska A, Bisserier M, Hakobyan S, Hadri L, Rai AK, Evans A, Sebastian A, Truongcao M, Gonzalez C, Bajpai A, Cheng Z, Dubey PK, Addya S, Mills P, Walsh K, Kishore R, Coleman M, Garikipati VNS. Space flight associated changes in astronauts' plasma-derived small extracellular vesicle microRNA: Biomarker identification. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e845. [PMID: 35653543 PMCID: PMC9162436 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David Goukassian
- Cardiovascular Research InstituteIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Center for Translational MedicineTemple University School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Arsen Arakelyan
- Bioinformatics GroupInstitute of Molecular Biology, NAS RAYerevanArmenia
- Department of Bioengineering, Bioinformatics and Molecular BiologyRussian‐Armenian UniversityYerevanArmenia
| | - Agnieszka Brojakowska
- Cardiovascular Research InstituteIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Malik Bisserier
- Cardiovascular Research InstituteIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Siras Hakobyan
- Bioinformatics GroupInstitute of Molecular Biology, NAS RAYerevanArmenia
- Armenian Bioinformatics InstituteYerevanArmenia
| | - Lahouaria Hadri
- Cardiovascular Research InstituteIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Amit Kumar Rai
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Angela Evans
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of California DavisSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
- Lawrence Livermore National LaboratoryLivermoreCaliforniaUSA
| | - Aimy Sebastian
- Lawrence Livermore National LaboratoryLivermoreCaliforniaUSA
| | - May Truongcao
- Center for Translational MedicineTemple University School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Carolina Gonzalez
- Center for Translational MedicineTemple University School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Anamika Bajpai
- Center for Translational MedicineTemple University School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Zhongjian Cheng
- Center for Translational MedicineTemple University School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Praveen Kumar Dubey
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - Sankar Addya
- Thomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Paul Mills
- Integrative Health and Mind‐Body Biomarker LaboratoryUniversity of San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kenneth Walsh
- University of Virginia School of MedicineCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Raj Kishore
- Center for Translational MedicineTemple University School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Matt Coleman
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of California DavisSacramentoCaliforniaUSA
- Lawrence Livermore National LaboratoryLivermoreCaliforniaUSA
| | - Venkata Naga Srikanth Garikipati
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart Lung and Research InstituteThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOhioUSA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Huff JL, Plante I, Blattnig SR, Norman RB, Little MP, Khera A, Simonsen LC, Patel ZS. Cardiovascular Disease Risk Modeling for Astronauts: Making the Leap From Earth to Space. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:873597. [PMID: 35665268 PMCID: PMC9161032 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.873597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
NASA has recently completed several long-duration missions to the International Space Station and is solidifying plans to return to the Moon, with an eye toward Mars and beyond. As NASA pushes the boundaries of human space exploration, the hazards of spaceflight, including space radiation, levy an increasing burden on astronaut health and performance. The cardiovascular system may be especially vulnerable due to the combined impacts of space radiation exposure, lack of gravity, and other spaceflight hazards. On Earth, the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) following moderate to high radiation doses is well-established from clinical, environmental, and occupational exposures (largely from gamma- and x-rays). Less is known about CVD risks associated with high-energy charged ions found in space and increasingly used in radiotherapy applications on Earth, making this a critical area of investigation for occupational radiation protection. Assessing CVD risk is complicated by its multifactorial nature, where an individual's risk is strongly influenced by factors such as family history, blood pressure, and lipid profiles. These known risk factors provide the basis for development of a variety of clinical risk prediction models (CPMs) that inform the likelihood of medical outcomes over a defined period. These tools improve clinical decision-making, personalize care, and support primary prevention of CVD. They may also be useful for individualizing risk estimates for CVD following radiation exposure both in the clinic and in space. In this review, we summarize unique aspects of radiation risk assessment for astronauts, and we evaluate the most widely used CVD CPMs for their use in NASA radiation risk assessment applications. We describe a comprehensive dual-use risk assessment framework that supports both clinical care and operational management of space radiation health risks using quantitative metrics. This approach is a first step in using personalized medicine for radiation risk assessment to support safe and productive spaceflight and long-term quality of life for NASA astronauts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janice L. Huff
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA, United States
- *Correspondence: Janice L. Huff
| | - Ianik Plante
- KBR, Houston, TX, United States
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Steve R. Blattnig
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA, United States
| | - Ryan B. Norman
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA, United States
| | - Mark P. Little
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Radiation Epidemiology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Amit Khera
- Division of Cardiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Lisa C. Simonsen
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Headquarters, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Zarana S. Patel
- KBR, Houston, TX, United States
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bishawi M, Lee FH, Abraham DM, Glass C, Blocker SJ, Cox DJ, Brown ZD, Rockman HA, Mao L, Slaba TC, Dewhirst MW, Truskey GA, Bowles DE. Late onset cardiovascular dysfunction in adult mice resulting from galactic cosmic ray exposure. iScience 2022; 25:104086. [PMID: 35378858 PMCID: PMC8976132 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex and inaccessible space radiation environment poses an unresolved risk to astronaut cardiovascular health during long-term space exploration missions. To model this risk, healthy male c57BL/6 mice aged six months (corresponding to an astronaut of 34 years) were exposed to simplified galactic cosmic ray (GCR5-ion; 5-ion sim) irradiation at the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL) at Brookhaven National Laboratories (BNL). Multi-modal cardiovascular functional assessments performed longitudinally and terminally revealed significant impairment in cardiac function in mice exposed to GCR5-ion compared to unirradiated controls, gamma irradiation, or single mono-energetic ions (56Fe or 16O). GCR5-ion-treated mice exhibited increased arterial elastance likely mediated by disruption of elastin fibers. This study suggests that a single exposure to GCR5-ion is associated with deterioration in cardiac structure and function that becomes apparent long after exposure, likely associated with increased morbidity and mortality. These findings represent important health considerations when preparing for successful space exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muath Bishawi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, MRSB1 Rm. 421b, 203 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Franklin H. Lee
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, MRSB1 Rm. 421b, 203 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Dennis M. Abraham
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Carolyn Glass
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | | | - Daniel J. Cox
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, MRSB1 Rm. 421b, 203 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Zachary D. Brown
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, MRSB1 Rm. 421b, 203 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Howard A. Rockman
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Lan Mao
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Tony C. Slaba
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA 23681, USA
| | - Mark W. Dewhirst
- Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - George A. Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Dawn E. Bowles
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, MRSB1 Rm. 421b, 203 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dissociation of Bone Resorption and Formation in Spaceflight and Simulated Microgravity: Potential Role of Myokines and Osteokines? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020342. [PMID: 35203551 PMCID: PMC8961781 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The dissociation of bone formation and resorption is an important physiological process during spaceflight. It also occurs during local skeletal unloading or immobilization, such as in people with neuromuscular disorders or those who are on bed rest. Under these conditions, the physiological systems of the human body are perturbed down to the cellular level. Through the absence of mechanical stimuli, the musculoskeletal system and, predominantly, the postural skeletal muscles are largely affected. Despite in-flight exercise countermeasures, muscle wasting and bone loss occur, which are associated with spaceflight duration. Nevertheless, countermeasures can be effective, especially by preventing muscle wasting to rescue both postural and dynamic as well as muscle performance. Thus far, it is largely unknown how changes in bone microarchitecture evolve over the long term in the absence of a gravity vector and whether bone loss incurred in space or following the return to the Earth fully recovers or partly persists. In this review, we highlight the different mechanisms and factors that regulate the humoral crosstalk between the muscle and the bone. Further we focus on the interplay between currently known myokines and osteokines and their mutual regulation.
Collapse
|
19
|
Cortés-Sánchez JL, Callant J, Krüger M, Sahana J, Kraus A, Baselet B, Infanger M, Baatout S, Grimm D. Cancer Studies under Space Conditions: Finding Answers Abroad. Biomedicines 2021; 10:biomedicines10010025. [PMID: 35052703 PMCID: PMC8773191 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review article, we discuss the current state of knowledge in cancer research under real and simulated microgravity conditions and point out further research directions in this field. Outer space is an extremely hostile environment for human life, with radiation, microgravity, and vacuum posing significant hazards. Although the risk for cancer in astronauts is not clear, microgravity plays a thought-provoking role in the carcinogenesis of normal and cancer cells, causing such effects as multicellular spheroid formation, cytoskeleton rearrangement, alteration of gene expression and protein synthesis, and apoptosis. Furthermore, deleterious effects of radiation on cells seem to be accentuated under microgravity. Ground-based facilities have been used to study microgravity effects in addition to laborious experiments during parabolic flights or on space stations. Some potential 'gravisensors' have already been detected, and further identification of these mechanisms of mechanosensitivity could open up ways for therapeutic influence on cancer growth and apoptosis. These novel findings may help to find new effective cancer treatments and to provide health protection for humans on future long-term spaceflights and exploration of outer space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Cortés-Sánchez
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (M.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.)
| | - Jonas Callant
- Radiobiology Unit, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400 Mol, Belgium; (J.C.); (B.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (M.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jayashree Sahana
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
| | - Armin Kraus
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (M.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Bjorn Baselet
- Radiobiology Unit, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400 Mol, Belgium; (J.C.); (B.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (M.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400 Mol, Belgium; (J.C.); (B.B.); (S.B.)
- Department Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (M.K.); (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Research Group ‘Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt-und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen’ (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-21379702
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Parsons IT, Nicol ED, Holdsworth D, Guettler N, Rienks R, Davos CH, Halle M, Parati G. Cardiovascular risk in high-hazard occupations: the role of occupational cardiology. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 29:702-713. [PMID: 34918040 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Work is beneficial for health, but many individuals develop cardiovascular disease (CVD) during their working lives. Occupational cardiology is an emerging field that combines traditional cardiology sub-specialisms with prevention and risk management unique to specific employment characteristics and conditions. In some occupational settings incapacitation through CVD has the potential to be catastrophic due to the nature of work and/or the working environment. These are often termed 'hazardous' or 'high-hazard' occupations. Consequently, many organizations that employ individuals in high-hazard roles undertake pre-employment medicals and periodic medical examinations to screen for CVD. The identification of CVD that exceeds predefined employer (or regulatory body) risk thresholds can result in occupational restriction, or disqualification, which may be temporary or permanent. This article will review the evidence related to occupational cardiology for several high-hazard occupations related to aviation and space, diving, high altitude, emergency workers, commercial transportation, and the military. The article will focus on environmental risk, screening, surveillance, and risk management for the prevention of events precipitated by CVD. Occupational cardiology is a challenging field that requires a broad understanding of general cardiology, environmental, and occupational medicine principles. There is a current lack of consensus and contemporary evidence which requires further research. Provision of evidence-based, but individualized, risk stratification and treatment plans is required from specialists that understand the complex interaction between work and the cardiovascular system. There is a current lack of consensus and contemporary evidence in occupational cardiology and further research is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iain T Parsons
- Academic Department of Military Medicine, Research and Clinical Innovation, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK.,School of Cardiovascular Medicine and Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Edward D Nicol
- Academic Department of Military Medicine, Research and Clinical Innovation, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK.,Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK.,Department of Cardiology, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
| | - David Holdsworth
- Academic Department of Military Medicine, Research and Clinical Innovation, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK
| | - Norbert Guettler
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, German Air Force Centre of Aerospace Medicine, Fuerstenfeldbruck, Germany
| | - Rienk Rienks
- CardioExpert, Outpatient Clinic for Sports and Occupational Cardiology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Constantinos H Davos
- Division of Cardiovascular Research, Cardiovascular Laboratory, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Martin Halle
- Department of Prevention and Sports Medicine, University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Cardiovascular Research, DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Gianfranco Parati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,Department of Cardiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, San Luca Hospital, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Strigari L, Strolin S, Morganti AG, Bartoloni A. Dose-Effects Models for Space Radiobiology: An Overview on Dose-Effect Relationships. Front Public Health 2021; 9:733337. [PMID: 34820349 PMCID: PMC8606590 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.733337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Space radiobiology is an interdisciplinary science that examines the biological effects of ionizing radiation on humans involved in aerospace missions. The dose-effect models are one of the relevant topics of space radiobiology. Their knowledge is crucial for optimizing radioprotection strategies (e.g., spaceship and lunar space station-shielding and lunar/Mars village design), the risk assessment of the health hazard related to human space exploration, and reducing damages induced to astronauts from galactic cosmic radiation. Dose-effect relationships describe the observed damages to normal tissues or cancer induction during and after space flights. They are developed for the various dose ranges and radiation qualities characterizing the actual and the forecast space missions [International Space Station (ISS) and solar system exploration]. Based on a Pubmed search including 53 papers reporting the collected dose-effect relationships after space missions or in ground simulations, 7 significant dose-effect relationships (e.g., eye flashes, cataract, central nervous systems, cardiovascular disease, cancer, chromosomal aberrations, and biomarkers) have been identified. For each considered effect, the absorbed dose thresholds and the uncertainties/limitations of the developed relationships are summarized and discussed. The current knowledge on this topic can benefit from further in vitro and in vivo radiobiological studies, an accurate characterization of the quality of space radiation, and the numerous experimental dose-effects data derived from the experience in the clinical use of ionizing radiation for diagnostic or treatments with doses similar to those foreseen for the future space missions. The growing number of pooled studies could improve the prediction ability of dose-effect relationships for space exposure and reduce their uncertainty level. Novel research in the field is of paramount importance to reduce damages to astronauts from cosmic radiation before Beyond Low Earth Orbit exploration in the next future. The study aims at providing an overview of the published dose-effect relationships and illustrates novel perspectives to inspire future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Strigari
- Department of Medical Physics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Strolin
- Department of Medical Physics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessio Giuseppe Morganti
- Radiation Oncology Center, School of Medicine, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine - DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chauhan V, Hamada N, Monceau V, Ebrahimian T, Adam N, Wilkins RC, Sebastian S, Patel ZS, Huff JL, Simonetto C, Iwasaki T, Kaiser JC, Salomaa S, Moertl S, Azimzadeh O. Expert consultation is vital for adverse outcome pathway development: a case example of cardiovascular effects of ionizing radiation. Int J Radiat Biol 2021; 97:1516-1525. [PMID: 34402738 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2021.1969466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The circulatory system distributes nutrients, signaling molecules, and immune cells to vital organs and soft tissues. Epidemiological, animal, and in vitro cellular mechanistic studies have highlighted that exposure to ionizing radiation (IR) can induce molecular changes in cellular and subcellular milieus leading to long-term health impacts, particularly on the circulatory system. Although the mechanisms for the pathologies are not fully elucidated, endothelial dysfunction is proven to be a critical event via radiation-induced oxidative stress mediators. To delineate connectivities of events specifically to cardiovascular disease (CVD) initiation and progression, the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) approach was used with consultation from field experts. AOPs are a means to organize information around a disease of interest to a regulatory question. An AOP begins with a molecular initiating event and ends in an adverse outcome via sequential linkages of key event relationships that are supported by evidence in the form of the modified Bradford-Hill criteria. Detailed guidelines on building AOPs are provided by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) AOP program. Here, we report on the questions and discussions needed to develop an AOP for CVD resulting from IR exposure. A recent workshop jointly organized by the MELODI (Multidisciplinary European Low Dose Initiative) and the ALLIANCE (European Radioecology Alliance) associations brought together experts from the OECD to present the AOP approach and tools with examples from the toxicology field. As part of this workshop, four working groups were formed to discuss the identification of adverse outcomes relevant to radiation exposures and development of potential AOPs, one of which was focused on IR-induced cardiovascular effects. Each working group comprised subject matter experts and radiation researchers interested in the specific disease area and included an AOP coach. CONCLUSION The CVD working group identified the critical questions of interest for AOP development, including the exposure scenario that would inform the evidence, the mechanisms of toxicity, the initiating event, intermediate key events/relationships, and the type of data currently available. This commentary describes the four-day discussion of the CVD working group, its outcomes, and demonstrates how collaboration and expert consultation is vital to informing AOP construction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinita Chauhan
- Consumer and Clinical Radiation Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Nobuyuki Hamada
- Radiation Safety Unit, Biology and Environmental Chemistry Division, Sustainable System Research Laboratory, Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry (CRIEPI), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Virginie Monceau
- Institute of Radiation and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Radiotoxicology and Radiobiology Research Laboratory (LRTOX), Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Teni Ebrahimian
- Institute of Radiation and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Radiotoxicology and Radiobiology Research Laboratory (LRTOX), Fontenay-Aux-Roses, France
| | - Nadine Adam
- Consumer and Clinical Radiation Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ruth C Wilkins
- Consumer and Clinical Radiation Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Soji Sebastian
- Radiobiology, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Chalk River, Canada
| | - Zarana S Patel
- KBR Inc, Houston, TX, USA.,NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Cristoforo Simonetto
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Radiation Medicine (HMGU-IRM), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Toshiyasu Iwasaki
- Radiation Safety Unit, Biology and Environmental Chemistry Division, Sustainable System Research Laboratory, Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry (CRIEPI), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jan Christian Kaiser
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Radiation Medicine (HMGU-IRM), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Sisko Salomaa
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Simone Moertl
- Section Radiation Biology, Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Omid Azimzadeh
- Section Radiation Biology, Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), Neuherberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Slim AM, Fentanes E, Cheezum MK, Parsons IT, Maroules C, Chen B, Abbara S, Branch K, Nagpal P, Shah NR, Thomas DM, Villines TC, Blankstein R, Shaw LJ, Budoff M, Nicol E. The role of cardiovascular CT in occupational health assessment for coronary heart disease: An expert consensus document from the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT). J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2021; 15:290-303. [PMID: 33926854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Billy Chen
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Baldwin Park, CA, USA
| | - Suhny Abbara
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Prashant Nagpal
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nishant R Shah
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Dustin M Thomas
- Parkview Health, Parkview Research Center, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | - Todd C Villines
- University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ron Blankstein
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Ed Nicol
- Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Reynolds R, Little MP, Day S, Charvat J, Blattnig S, Huff J, Patel ZS. Cancer incidence and mortality in the USA Astronaut Corps, 1959-2017. Occup Environ Med 2021; 78:869-875. [PMID: 34039755 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-107143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer incidence and mortality are important outcomes in the surveillance of long-term astronaut health. We compare cancer incidence rates, cancer-specific mortality rates, and cancer case-fatality ratios in US astronauts with those in the US general population. METHODS We use standardised incidence ratios (SIRs) and standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) to index the incidence and mortality of various cancers against rates in the US general population, from the US astronaut cohort inception in April 1959 through 31 December 2017. We compare the lethality of these cancers using the relative case-fatality ratio. RESULTS Overall cancer incidence and mortality were slightly lower than expected from national rates with SIR 82 (95% CI 63 to 104) and SMR 72 (95% CI 44 to 111) with a modest 14% reduction in case-fatality ratio. Prostate cancer and melanoma skin cancer had significant increases in incidence, with SIR of 162 (95% CI 109 to 232) and 252 (95% CI 126 to 452), respectively, though only melanoma had a significant increase in mortality, with SMR 508 (95% CI 105 to 1485). Lung cancer had a significant deficit of both cases and deaths, while colon cancer had sizeable (but not significant) reductions in incidence and mortality. CONCLUSIONS The increase in incidence of melanoma is consistent with that observed in aircraft pilots, suggesting this may be associated with ultraviolet radiation or lifestyle factors rather than any astronaut-specific exposure. Reductions in lung cancer incidence and mortality, and trends towards such reductions in colon cancer, may be explained in part by healthy lifestyle, as well as differential screening among astronauts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Reynolds
- Mortality Research & Consulting Inc, City of Industry, California, USA .,NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mark P Little
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven Day
- Mortality Research & Consulting Inc, City of Industry, California, USA
| | - Jacqueline Charvat
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,KBR Inc, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Janice Huff
- NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia, USA
| | - Zarana S Patel
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,KBR Inc, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Meerman M, Bracco Gartner TCL, Buikema JW, Wu SM, Siddiqi S, Bouten CVC, Grande-Allen KJ, Suyker WJL, Hjortnaes J. Myocardial Disease and Long-Distance Space Travel: Solving the Radiation Problem. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:631985. [PMID: 33644136 PMCID: PMC7906998 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.631985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation-induced cardiovascular disease is a well-known complication of radiation exposure. Over the last few years, planning for deep space missions has increased interest in the effects of space radiation on the cardiovascular system, as an increasing number of astronauts will be exposed to space radiation for longer periods of time. Research has shown that exposure to different types of particles found in space radiation can lead to the development of diverse cardiovascular disease via fibrotic myocardial remodeling, accelerated atherosclerosis and microvascular damage. Several underlying mechanisms for radiation-induced cardiovascular disease have been identified, but many aspects of the pathophysiology remain unclear. Existing pharmacological compounds have been evaluated to protect the cardiovascular system from space radiation-induced damage, but currently no radioprotective compounds have been approved. This review critically analyzes the effects of space radiation on the cardiovascular system, the underlying mechanisms and potential countermeasures to space radiation-induced cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manon Meerman
- Division Heart and Lung, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Tom C L Bracco Gartner
- Division Heart and Lung, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jan Willem Buikema
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sean M Wu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Sailay Siddiqi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carlijn V C Bouten
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technical University Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | | | - Willem J L Suyker
- Division Heart and Lung, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jesper Hjortnaes
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Division Heart and Lung, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Davis CM, Allen AR, Bowles DE. Consequences of space radiation on the brain and cardiovascular system. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, TOXICOLOGY AND CARCINOGENESIS 2021; 39:180-218. [PMID: 33902387 DOI: 10.1080/26896583.2021.1891825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Staying longer in outer space will inevitably increase the health risks of astronauts due to the exposures to galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events. Exposure may pose a significant hazard to space flight crews not only during the mission but also later, when slow-developing adverse effects could finally become apparent. The body of literature examining ground-based outcomes in response to high-energy charged-particle radiation suggests differential effects in response to different particles and energies. Numerous animal and cellular models have repeatedly demonstrated the negative effects of high-energy charged-particle on the brain and cognitive function. However, research on the role of space radiation in potentiating cardiovascular dysfunction is still in its early stages. This review summarizes the available data from studies using ground-based animal models to evaluate the response of the brain and heart to the high-energy charged particles of GCR and SPE, addresses potential sex differences in these effects, and aims to highlight gaps in the current literature for future study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M Davis
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Antiño R Allen
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Dawn E Bowles
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Malkani S, Chin CR, Cekanaviciute E, Mortreux M, Okinula H, Tarbier M, Schreurs AS, Shirazi-Fard Y, Tahimic CGT, Rodriguez DN, Sexton BS, Butler D, Verma A, Bezdan D, Durmaz C, MacKay M, Melnick A, Meydan C, Li S, Garrett-Bakelman F, Fromm B, Afshinnekoo E, Langhorst BW, Dimalanta ET, Cheng-Campbell M, Blaber E, Schisler JC, Vanderburg C, Friedländer MR, McDonald JT, Costes SV, Rutkove S, Grabham P, Mason CE, Beheshti A. Circulating miRNA Spaceflight Signature Reveals Targets for Countermeasure Development. Cell Rep 2020; 33:108448. [PMID: 33242410 PMCID: PMC8441986 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We have identified and validated a spaceflight-associated microRNA (miRNA) signature that is shared by rodents and humans in response to simulated, short-duration and long-duration spaceflight. Previous studies have identified miRNAs that regulate rodent responses to spaceflight in low-Earth orbit, and we have confirmed the expression of these proposed spaceflight-associated miRNAs in rodents reacting to simulated spaceflight conditions. Moreover, astronaut samples from the NASA Twins Study confirmed these expression signatures in miRNA sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and single-cell assay for transposase accessible chromatin (scATAC-seq) data. Additionally, a subset of these miRNAs (miR-125, miR-16, and let-7a) was found to regulate vascular damage caused by simulated deep space radiation. To demonstrate the physiological relevance of key spaceflight-associated miRNAs, we utilized antagomirs to inhibit their expression and successfully rescue simulated deep-space-radiation-mediated damage in human 3D vascular constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sherina Malkani
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Christopher R Chin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Egle Cekanaviciute
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Marie Mortreux
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Hazeem Okinula
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Marcel Tarbier
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, the Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ann-Sofie Schreurs
- KBR, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Yasaman Shirazi-Fard
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Candice G T Tahimic
- KBR, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel Butler
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Akanksha Verma
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniela Bezdan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Institute of Medical Virology and Epidemiology of Viral Diseases, University Hospital, Tubingen, Germany
| | - Ceyda Durmaz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew MacKay
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ari Melnick
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cem Meydan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sheng Li
- The Jackson Laboratories, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Francine Garrett-Bakelman
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Bastian Fromm
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, the Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ebrahim Afshinnekoo
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Margareth Cheng-Campbell
- Center for Biotechnology & Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Elizabeth Blaber
- Center for Biotechnology & Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, CA 94035, USA
| | - Jonathan C Schisler
- McAllister Heart Institute, Department of Pharmacology, and Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Charles Vanderburg
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Marc R Friedländer
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, the Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J Tyson McDonald
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Sylvain V Costes
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA
| | - Seward Rutkove
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Peter Grabham
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Christopher E Mason
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; The Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Afshin Beheshti
- KBR, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Patel ZS, Brunstetter TJ, Tarver WJ, Whitmire AM, Zwart SR, Smith SM, Huff JL. Red risks for a journey to the red planet: The highest priority human health risks for a mission to Mars. NPJ Microgravity 2020; 6:33. [PMID: 33298950 PMCID: PMC7645687 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-020-00124-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
NASA's plans for space exploration include a return to the Moon to stay-boots back on the lunar surface with an orbital outpost. This station will be a launch point for voyages to destinations further away in our solar system, including journeys to the red planet Mars. To ensure success of these missions, health and performance risks associated with the unique hazards of spaceflight must be adequately controlled. These hazards-space radiation, altered gravity fields, isolation and confinement, closed environments, and distance from Earth-are linked with over 30 human health risks as documented by NASA's Human Research Program. The programmatic goal is to develop the tools and technologies to adequately mitigate, control, or accept these risks. The risks ranked as "red" have the highest priority based on both the likelihood of occurrence and the severity of their impact on human health, performance in mission, and long-term quality of life. These include: (1) space radiation health effects of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decrements (2) Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (3) behavioral health and performance decrements, and (4) inadequate food and nutrition. Evaluation of the hazards and risks in terms of the space exposome-the total sum of spaceflight and lifetime exposures and how they relate to genetics and determine the whole-body outcome-will provide a comprehensive picture of risk profiles for individual astronauts. In this review, we provide a primer on these "red" risks for the research community. The aim is to inform the development of studies and projects with high potential for generating both new knowledge and technologies to assist with mitigating multisystem risks to crew health during exploratory missions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zarana S Patel
- KBR, Houston, TX, USA.
- NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Sara R Zwart
- NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Scott M Smith
- NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rikhi R, Samra G, Arustamyan M, Patel J, Zhou L, Bungo B, Moudgil R. Radiation induced cardiovascular disease: An odyssey of bedside-bench-bedside approach. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2020; 27:49-55. [PMID: 34756229 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The journey to Mars will be an ambitious, yet arduous task as it will entail culmination of all the information we have gathered over many decades. While the mission is of utmost importance, preservation of astronaut's well-being is paramount also. To that end, mitigation of radiation risk especially afflicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) is of great interest and challenge. Current data from astronauts on low earth orbit and Apollo missions provides insight on the risk of CVD from radiation exposure. However, data is limited given the small cohort size of astronauts who embarked on just nine prolonged missions. Therefore, a cerebral approach to understanding and mitigating risks are essential. This paper discusses the need for a predictive preclinical model to help understand and mitigate the effects of radiation on astronauts. We will discuss strengths and limitations of preclinical models and the methods of validating and constructing a model to predict human clinical outcomes. Our bedside-bench-bedside approach focuses on adapting the preclinical model through common investigative tools used between humans and animals. The result will be an optimization of preclinical model to a point of being a surrogate clinical model capable of predicting CVD outcomes in astronauts exposed to radiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rishi Rikhi
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Gursharan Samra
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Michael Arustamyan
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Jay Patel
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Leon Zhou
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Brandon Bungo
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Rohit Moudgil
- Section of Clinical Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute Cleveland Clinic Foundation 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
Objective Particle radiobiology has contributed new understanding of radiation safety and underlying mechanisms of action to radiation oncology for the treatment of cancer, and to planning of radiation protection for space travel. This manuscript will highlight the significance of precise physical and biologically effective dosimetry to this translational research for the benefit of human health. This review provides a brief snapshot of the evolving scientific basis for, and the complex current global status, and remaining challenges of hadron therapy for the treatment of cancer. The need for particle radiobiology for risk planning in return missions to the Moon, and exploratory deep-space missions to Mars and beyond are also discussed. Methods Key lessons learned are summarized from an impressive collective literature published by an international cadre of multidisciplinary experts in particle physics, radiation chemistry, medical physics of imaging and treatment planning, molecular, cellular, tissue radiobiology, biology of microgravity and other stressors, theoretical modeling of biophysical data, and clinical results with accelerator-produced particle beams. Results Research pioneers, many of whom were Nobel laureates, led the world in the discovery of ionizing radiations originating from the Earth and the Cosmos. Six radiation pioneers led the way to hadron therapy and the study of charged particles encountered in outer space travel. Worldwide about 250,000 patients have been treated for cancer, or other lesions such as arteriovenous malformations in the brain between 1954 and 2019 with charged particle radiotherapy, also known as hadron therapy. The majority of these patients (213,000) were treated with proton beams, but approximately 32,000 were treated with carbon ion radiotherapy. There are 3500 patients who have been treated with helium, pions, neon or other ions. There are currently 82 facilities operating to provide ion beam clinical treatments. Of these, only 13 facilities located in Asia and Europe are providing carbon ion beams for preclinical, clinical, and space research. There are also numerous particle physics accelerators worldwide capable of producing ion beams for research, but not currently focused on treating patients with ion beam therapy but are potentially available for preclinical and space research. Approximately, more than 550 individuals have traveled into Lower Earth Orbit (LEO) and beyond and returned to Earth. Conclusion Charged particle therapy with controlled beams of protons and carbon ions have significantly impacted targeted cancer therapy, eradicated tumors while sparing normal tissue toxicities, and reduced human suffering. These modalities still require further optimization and technical refinements to reduce cost but should be made available to everyone in need worldwide. The exploration of our Universe in space travel poses the potential risk of exposure to uncontrolled charged particles. However, approaches to shield and provide countermeasures to these potential radiation hazards in LEO have allowed an amazing number of discoveries currently without significant life-threatening medical consequences. More basic research with components of the Galactic Cosmic Radiation field are still required to assure safety involving space radiations and combined stressors with microgravity for exploratory deep space travel. Advances in knowledge The collective knowledge garnered from the wealth of available published evidence obtained prior to particle radiation therapy, or to space flight, and the additional data gleaned from implementing both endeavors has provided many opportunities for heavy ions to promote human health.
Collapse
|
31
|
Dachev TP, Tomov BT, Matviichuk YN, Dimitrov PG, Semkova JV, Koleva RT, Jordanova MM, Bankov NG, Shurshakov VA, Benghin VV. Solar modulation of the GCR flux and dose rate, observed in space between 1991 and 2019. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2020; 26:114-124. [PMID: 32718677 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2020.06.002] [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: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The paper presents the solar modulation of the long-term galactic cosmic rays (GCR) flux and dose rates variations, observed during 14 space experiments by 10 Bulgarian build Liulin-type spectrometers (LTS) (Dachev et al., 2015a). They worked in near Earth space and in the interplanetary radiation environment between January 1991 and January 2019. Data were collected by LTS in the low Earth orbit (LEO) in the L range between 4 and 6.2 or outside the magnetosphere. The major advantage of the data sets are that they are obtained by the electronically identical LTS. The Liulin measurements of about monthly averaged flux and dose rate data are compared with the monthly values of the modulation parameter, reconstructed from the ground based cosmic ray data (Usoskin et al., 2017). A good correlation between the two data sets is observed. The most important achievement of the paper is that for the first time a proof of the solar modulation of the long-term variations of the monthly averaged dose rates is obtained. These long-term experimentally obtained dose rate data could be used for modeling of the GCR space radiation risks to humans in the near Earth radiation environment. Parallel to the long-term dose rate varitions, the monthly averaged flux variations are also presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tsvetan P Dachev
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Borislav T Tomov
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Yuri N Matviichuk
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Plamen G Dimitrov
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Jordanka V Semkova
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rositsa T Koleva
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Malina M Jordanova
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nikolay G Bankov
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 1, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Viacheslav A Shurshakov
- State Research Center, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Victor V Benghin
- State Research Center, Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russian Federation
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Patel S. The effects of microgravity and space radiation on cardiovascular health: From low-Earth orbit and beyond. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2020; 30:100595. [PMID: 32775602 PMCID: PMC7399104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2020.100595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The unique conditions of space harbor considerable challenges for astronauts to overcome. Namely, the ionizing content of space radiation and the effects of microgravity have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Post-flight carotid arterial stiffness was demonstrated in astronaut studies while early arteriosclerosis has been linked with microgravity-induced oxidative stress in cellular studies. Similarly, radiation has been shown to disrupt molecular pathways, enhance reactive oxygen species and increase risk of cardiovascular disease in exposed populations. These results may bear even more significance in space owing to the propensity for microgravity and space radiation to yield synergistic and/or additive interactions. Potential countermeasures such as α-tocopherol and captopril target these oxidative pathways and may help to protect against the effects of microgravity and radiation-induced cardiac damage. However, more research needs to be conducted in this area to facilitate a safe passage for humans to the Moon, Mars and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Smit Patel
- Vascular Biology, Cardiovascular Science, National Heart & Lung Institute (NHLI), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London SW3 6LY, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
While humans have made enormous progress in the exploration and exploitation of Earth, exploration of outer space remains beyond current human capabilities. The principal challenges lie in current space technology and engineering which includes the protection of astronauts from the hazards of working and living in the space environment. These challenges may lead to a paradoxical situation where progress in space technology and the ability to ensure acceptable risk/benefit for human space exploration becomes dissociated and the rate of scientific discovery declines. In this paper, we discuss the predominant challenges of the space environment for human health and argue that development and deployment of a human enhancement policy, initially confined to astronauts - for the purpose of future human space programmes is a rational solution to these challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Szocik
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Information Technology, and Management, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Martin Braddock
- Sherwood Observatory, Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society, England, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Iosim S, MacKay M, Westover C, Mason CE. Translating current biomedical therapies for long duration, deep space missions. PRECISION CLINICAL MEDICINE 2019; 2:259-269. [PMID: 31886035 PMCID: PMC6927098 DOI: 10.1093/pcmedi/pbz022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is been shown that spaceflight-induced molecular, cellular, and physiologic changes cause alterations across many modalities of the human body, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, hematological, immunological, ocular, and neurological systems. The Twin Study, a multi-year, multi-omic study of human response to spaceflight, provided detailed and comprehensive molecular and cellular maps of the human response to radiation, microgravity, isolation, and stress. These rich data identified epigenetic, gene expression, inflammatory, and metabolic responses to spaceflight, facilitating a better biomedical roadmap of features that should be monitored and safe-guarded in upcoming missions. Further, by exploring new developments in pre-clinical models and clinical trials, we can begin to design potential cellular interventions for exploration-class missions to Mars and potentially farther. This paper will discuss the overall risks astronauts face during spaceflight, what is currently known about human response to these risks, what pharmaceutical interventions exist for use in space, and which tools of precision medicine and cellular engineering could be applied to aerospace and astronaut medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Iosim
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Matthew MacKay
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.,The WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Craig Westover
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Christopher E Mason
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.,The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.,The Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.,The WorldQuant Initiative for Quantitative Prediction, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Reynolds RJ, Bukhtiyarov IV, Tikhonova GI, Day SM, Ushakov IB, Gorchakova TYU. Contrapositive logic suggests space radiation not having a strong impact on mortality of US astronauts and Soviet and Russian cosmonauts. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8583. [PMID: 31273231 PMCID: PMC6609703 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44858-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Space travelers are exposed to unique forms of ionizing radiation that pose potentially serious health hazards. Prior analyses have attempted to quantify excess mortality risk for astronauts exposed to space radiation, but low statistical power has frustrated inferences. If exposure to deep space radiation were causally linked to deaths due to two particular causes, e.g., cancer and cardiovascular disease, then those cause-specific deaths would not be statistically independent. In this case, a Kaplan-Meier survival curve for a specific cause that treats deaths due to competing causes as uninformative censored events would result in biased estimates of survival probabilities. Here we look for evidence of a deleterious effect of historical exposure to space radiation by assessing whether or not there is evidence for such bias in Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival probabilities for cardiovascular disease and cancer. Evidence of such bias may implicate space radiation as a common causal link to these two disease processes. An absence of such evidence would be evidence that no such common causal link to radiation exposure during space travel exists. We found that survival estimates from the Kaplan-Meier curves were largely congruent with those of competing risk methods, suggesting that if ionizing radiation is impacting the risk of death due to cancer and cardiovascular disease, the effect is not dramatic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Igor V Bukhtiyarov
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Izmerov Research Institute of Occupational Health, 31, Prospect Budennogo, Moscow, 105275, Russian Federation
| | - Galina I Tikhonova
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Izmerov Research Institute of Occupational Health, 31, Prospect Budennogo, Moscow, 105275, Russian Federation
| | - Steven M Day
- Mortality Research & Consulting, Inc., City of Industry, CA, USA
| | - Igor B Ushakov
- Russian State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 46 Zhivopisnaya Street, 123182, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Tatyana Y U Gorchakova
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution Izmerov Research Institute of Occupational Health, 31, Prospect Budennogo, Moscow, 105275, Russian Federation
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
An oscillometric approach in assessing early vascular ageing biomarkers following long-term space flights. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL CARDIOLOGY HYPERTENSION 2019; 2:100013. [PMID: 33447746 PMCID: PMC7803044 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchy.2019.100013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The environmental conditions in space, particularly exposure to cosmic radiation, coupled with decreased mobility, altered glucose metabolism, and hemodynamic changes may promote cardiovascular disease Therefore, we assessed early vascular aging markers and hemodynamics using a novel oscillometric blood pressure device. Methodology In eight cosmonauts (46.5 ± 5.3 yrs, 77.6 ± 8.2 kg, 176 ± 6.2 cm, 7 men/1woman), we determined heart rate, peripheral blood pressure, central blood pressure, and pulse wave velocity in the supine position using an oscillometric brachial device coupled with transfer function analysis. We obtained measurements at baseline (65–90 days before flight) and four days (R+4) and eight days (R+8) after return from six months mission onboard the International Space Station. Results Compared to baseline, heart rate increased significantly on R+4 (58.6 ± 6.4 vs. 70.3 ± 5.2 bpm) but did not differ on R+8. Central systolic blood pressure increased from 112.5 ± 13.5 on baseline to 125.6 ± 18.5 on R+4 and 121.6 ± 9.5 mmHg, albeit showing no statistical significance compared to baseline (p = 0.243/0.295). Peripheral diastolic and systolic as well as central diastolic blood pressure measurements followed this trend. Pulse wave velocity increased non-significantly from baseline (6.7 ± 0.8 m/s) to R+4 (7.2 ± 0.8 m/s, p = 0.499) and stayed elevated on R+8 (7.1 ± 0.5 m/s, p = 0.614). Conclusion The important finding of our study is that six months in a near-earth orbit do not lead to clinically significant changes in early vascular ageing biomarkers. However, these findings cannot be extrapolated to the conditions encountered in deep space. Non-invasive testing of vascular biomarkers may have utility in detecting vascular risks during space travel at an early stage.
Collapse
|
37
|
Affiliation(s)
- John D. Boice
- National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Division of Epidemiology Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Space Radiation Effects on Crew During and After Deep Space Missions. CURRENT PATHOBIOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40139-018-0175-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|