1
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Kimura Y, Nakai Y, Ino Y, Akiyama T, Moriyama K, Ohira T, Saito T, Inaba Y, Kumagai K, Ryo A, Hirano H. Identification of gravity-responsive serum proteins in spaceflight mice using a quantitative proteomic approach with data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry. Proteomics 2024; 24:e2300214. [PMID: 38475964 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202300214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Physical inactivity associated with gravity unloading, such as microgravity during spaceflight and hindlimb unloading (HU), can cause various physiological changes. In this study, we attempted to identify serum proteins whose levels fluctuated in response to gravity unloading. First, we quantitatively assessed changes in the serum proteome profiles of spaceflight mice using mass spectrometry with data-independent acquisition. The serum levels of several proteins involved in the responses to estrogen and glucocorticoid, blood vessel maturation, osteoblast differentiation, and ossification were changed by microgravity exposure. Furthermore, a collective evaluation of serum proteomic data from spaceflight and HU mice identified 30 serum proteins, including Mmp2, Igfbp2, Tnc, Cdh5, and Pmel, whose levels varied to a similar extent in both gravity unloading models. These changes in serum levels could be involved in the physiological changes induced by gravity unloading. A collective evaluation of serum, femur, and soleus muscle proteome data of spaceflight mice also showed 24 serum proteins, including Igfbp5, Igfbp3, and Postn, whose levels could be associated with biological changes induced by microgravity. This study examined serum proteome profiles in response to gravity unloading, and may help deepen our understanding of microgravity adaptation mechanisms during prolonged spaceflight missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yayoi Kimura
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yusuke Nakai
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yoko Ino
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Tomoko Akiyama
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kayano Moriyama
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohira
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
- Department of Physiology and Regenerative Medicine, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Yutaka Inaba
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ken Kumagai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Akihide Ryo
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hirano
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
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2
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Yi Y, Zhao Z, Cao B, Yi X, Mao Z, Zha F, Zhang Z, Liu H, Luo A. Effects of simulated microgravity on current generation of electrochemically active bacteria: Insights from case-control study using random positioning machine. Bioresour Technol 2024; 399:130618. [PMID: 38518880 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Electrochemically active bacteria (EAB) exhibit promising prospects for space exploration and life support systems. However, the effects of the space environment on EAB are unclear. In this study, the effects of simulated microgravity on the current generation of mixed-culture EAB were illustrated, and the underlying mechanism was elucidated. The results demonstrated that the electrochemical activity of mixed-culture EAB was enhanced, which was mainly due to the enrichment of Geobacter and the increase in EAB biomass. Additionally, the genes and proteins of the biofilm changed obviously under simulated microgravity conditions, including: I) genes related to signal transfer, II) genes related to cell wall synthesis, and III) genes related to riboflavin synthesis. This study first revealed the enrichment in EAB abundance, the increase in EAB biomass, and the promotion of current generation under simulated microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yi
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ziyue Zhao
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Bo Cao
- Institute of Environmental Biology and Life Support Technology, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xuemei Yi
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zhipeng Mao
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Fan Zha
- Infore Environment Technology Group, Foshan 528000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute of Environmental Biology and Life Support Technology, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Aiqin Luo
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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3
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Han X, Qu L, Yu M, Ye L, Shi L, Ye G, Yang J, Wang Y, Fan H, Wang Y, Tan Y, Wang C, Li Q, Lei W, Chen J, Liu Z, Shen Z, Li Y, Hu S. Thiamine-modified metabolic reprogramming of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte under space microgravity. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:86. [PMID: 38584163 PMCID: PMC10999445 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01791-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
During spaceflight, the cardiovascular system undergoes remarkable adaptation to microgravity and faces the risk of cardiac remodeling. Therefore, the effects and mechanisms of microgravity on cardiac morphology, physiology, metabolism, and cellular biology need to be further investigated. Since China started constructing the China Space Station (CSS) in 2021, we have taken advantage of the Shenzhou-13 capsule to send human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hPSC-CMs) to the Tianhe core module of the CSS. In this study, hPSC-CMs subjected to space microgravity showed decreased beating rate and abnormal intracellular calcium cycling. Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed a battery of metabolic remodeling of hPSC-CMs in spaceflight, especially thiamine metabolism. The microgravity condition blocked the thiamine intake in hPSC-CMs. The decline of thiamine utilization under microgravity or by its antagonistic analog amprolium affected the process of the tricarboxylic acid cycle. It decreased ATP production, which led to cytoskeletal remodeling and calcium homeostasis imbalance in hPSC-CMs. More importantly, in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that thiamine supplementation could reverse the adaptive changes induced by simulated microgravity. This study represents the first astrobiological study on the China Space Station and lays a solid foundation for further aerospace biomedical research. These data indicate that intervention of thiamine-modified metabolic reprogramming in human cardiomyocytes during spaceflight might be a feasible countermeasure against microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinglong Han
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lina Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingqun Ye
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Liujia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guangfu Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jingsi Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yaning Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hao Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yingjun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Lei
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianghai Chen
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenya Shen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Yinghui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China.
| | - Shijun Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital & Institute for Cardiovascular Science, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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4
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Rea DJ, Miller RS, Crucian BE, Valentine RW, Cristoforetti S, Bearg SB, Sipic Z, Cheng J, Yu R, Calaway KM, Eames D, Nelson ES, Lewandowski BE, Perusek GP, Chan EY. Single drop cytometry onboard the International Space Station. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2634. [PMID: 38528030 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46483-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Real-time lab analysis is needed to support clinical decision making and research on human missions to the Moon and Mars. Powerful laboratory instruments, such as flow cytometers, are generally too cumbersome for spaceflight. Here, we show that scant test samples can be measured in microgravity, by a trained astronaut, using a miniature cytometry-based analyzer, the rHEALTH ONE, modified specifically for spaceflight. The base device addresses critical spaceflight requirements including minimal resource utilization and alignment-free optics for surviving rocket launch. To fully enable reduced gravity operation onboard the space station, we incorporated bubble-free fluidics, electromagnetic shielding, and gravity-independent sample introduction. We show microvolume flow cytometry from 10 μL sample drops, with data from five simultaneous channels using 10 μs bin intervals during each sample run, yielding an average of 72 million raw data points in approximately 2 min. We demonstrate the device measures each test sample repeatably, including correct identification of a sample that degraded in transit to the International Space Station. This approach can be utilized to further our understanding of spaceflight biology and provide immediate, actionable diagnostic information for management of astronaut health without the need for Earth-dependent analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Rea
- DNA Medicine Institute (DMI), Bedford, MA, USA
- rHEALTH, Bedford, MA, USA
| | | | - Brian E Crucian
- Human Health and Performance Directorate, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Samuel B Bearg
- DNA Medicine Institute (DMI), Bedford, MA, USA
- rHEALTH, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Zlatko Sipic
- DNA Medicine Institute (DMI), Bedford, MA, USA
- rHEALTH, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Jamie Cheng
- DNA Medicine Institute (DMI), Bedford, MA, USA
- rHEALTH, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca Yu
- DNA Medicine Institute (DMI), Bedford, MA, USA
- rHEALTH, Bedford, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eugene Y Chan
- DNA Medicine Institute (DMI), Bedford, MA, USA.
- rHEALTH, Bedford, MA, USA.
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5
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Bonanni R, Cariati I, Rinaldi AM, Marini M, D’Arcangelo G, Tarantino U, Tancredi V. Trolox and recombinant Irisin as a potential strategy to prevent neuronal damage induced by random positioning machine exposure in differentiated HT22 cells. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300888. [PMID: 38512830 PMCID: PMC10956770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuronal death could be responsible for the cognitive impairments found in astronauts exposed to spaceflight, highlighting the need to identify potential countermeasures to ensure neuronal health in microgravity conditions. Therefore, differentiated HT22 cells were exposed to simulated microgravity by random positioning machine (RPM) for 48 h, treating them with a single administration of Trolox, recombinant irisin (r-Irisin) or both. Particularly, we investigated cell viability by MTS assay, Trypan Blue staining and western blotting analysis for Akt and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), the intracellular increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by fluorescent probe and NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) expression, as well as the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a major neurotrophin responsible for neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Although both Trolox and r-Irisin manifested a protective effect on neuronal health, the combined treatment produced the best results, with significant improvement in all parameters examined. In conclusion, further studies are needed to evaluate the potential of such combination treatment in counteracting weightlessness-induced neuronal death, as well as to identify other potential strategies to safeguard the health of astronauts exposed to spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bonanni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ida Cariati
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Rinaldi
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Marini
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna D’Arcangelo
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Tarantino
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Tancredi
- Department of Systems Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Centre of Space Bio-Medicine, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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6
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Carnovali M, Zava S, Banfi G, Rizzo AM, Mariotti M. Vibration Rather than Microgravity Affects Bone Metabolism in Adult Zebrafish Scale Model. Cells 2024; 13:509. [PMID: 38534353 PMCID: PMC10969198 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Gravity and mechanical forces cause important alterations in the human skeletal system, as demonstrated by space flights. Innovative animal models like zebrafish embryos and medaka have been introduced to study bone response in ground-based microgravity simulators. We used, for the first time, adult zebrafish in simulated microgravity, with a random positioning machine (RPM) to study bone remodeling in the scales. To evaluate the effects of microgravity on bone remodeling in adult bone tissue, we exposed adult zebrafish to microgravity for 14 days using RPM and we evaluated bone remodeling on explanted scales. Our data highlight bone resorption in scales in simulated microgravity fish but also in the fish exposed, in normal gravity, to the vibrations produced by the RPM. The osteoclast activation in both rotating and non-rotating samples suggest that prolonged vibrations exposure leads to bone resorption in the scales tissue. Stress levels in these fish were normal, as demonstrated by blood cortisol quantification. In conclusion, vibrational mechanical stress induced bone resorption in adult fish scales. Moreover, adult fish as an animal model for microgravity studies remains controversial since fish usually live in weightless conditions because of the buoyant force from water and do not constantly need to support their bodies against gravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Carnovali
- IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant’Ambrogio, Via C. Belgioioso 173, 20161 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Stefania Zava
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomedical Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, Via D. Trentacoste 2, 20134 Milan, Italy; (S.Z.); (A.M.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Banfi
- IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant’Ambrogio, Via C. Belgioioso 173, 20161 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (G.B.)
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 58, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Maria Rizzo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomedical Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, Via D. Trentacoste 2, 20134 Milan, Italy; (S.Z.); (A.M.R.)
| | - Massimo Mariotti
- IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant’Ambrogio, Via C. Belgioioso 173, 20161 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (G.B.)
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via Commenda 10, 20122 Milan, Italy
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7
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Rath M, Dümmer M, Hauslage J, Liemersdorf C, Forreiter C. Hardware Development for Plant Cultivation Allowing In Situ Fluorescence Analysis of Calcium Fluxes in Plant Roots Under Microgravity and Ground-Control Conditions. Astrobiology 2024; 24:275-282. [PMID: 38507696 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2023.0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Maintaining an optimal leaf and stem orientation to yield a maximum photosynthetic output is accomplished by terrestrial plants using sophisticated mechanisms to balance their orientation relative to the Earth's gravity vector and the direction of sunlight. Knowledge of the signal transduction chains of both gravity and light perception and how they influence each other is essential for understanding plant development on Earth and plant cultivation in space environments. However, in situ analyses of cellular signal transduction processes in weightlessness, such as live cell imaging of signaling molecules using confocal fluorescence microscopy, require an adapted experimental setup that meets the special requirements of a microgravity environment. In addition, investigations under prolonged microgravity conditions require extensive resources, are rarely accessible, and do not allow for immediate sample preparation for the actual microscopic analysis. Therefore, supply concepts are needed that ensure both the viability of the contained plants over a longer period of time and an unhindered microscopic analysis in microgravity. Here, we present a customized supply unit specifically designed to study gravity-induced Ca2+ mobilization in roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. The unit can be employed for ground-based experiments, in parabolic flights, on sounding rockets, and probably also aboard the International Space Station.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Rath
- Department of Plant Physiology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Dümmer
- Department of Plant Physiology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jens Hauslage
- Gravitational Biology, German Aerospace Center, Department of Aerospace Medicine, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Liemersdorf
- Gravitational Biology, German Aerospace Center, Department of Aerospace Medicine, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph Forreiter
- Department of Plant Physiology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Department of Biology, University Siegen, Siegen, Germany
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8
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Singh R, Jaiswal A, Singh RP. Simulated microgravity induces DNA damage concurrent with impairment of DNA repair and activation of cell-type specific DNA damage response in microglial and glioblastoma cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Res 2024; 1871:119679. [PMID: 38272357 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Long-term spaceflights affect the structural changes in brain, alter motor or cognitive function and associated development of neuro-optic syndrome in astronauts. Studies addressing the impact of microgravity on brain cells are very limited. Herein, we employed microglial (CHME3) and glioblastoma (U87MG and A172) cells to study their molecular and functional adaptations under simulated microgravity (SMG) exposure. A reduction in cell viability and proliferation with decreased levels of PCNA were observed in these cells. SMG caused extensive DNA damage with an increase in γH2A.X (ser139) phosphorylation and differential activation/expression of DNA damage response (DDR) proteins including ATM, ATR, Chk1, Chk2 and p53 in all the three cell lines. Unlike CHME3, the ATM/Chk2-dependent DDR pathway was activated in glioblastoma cells suggesting a marked difference in the adaptation between normal and cancer cells to SMG. Five different classes of DNA repair pathways including BER, NER, MMR, NHEJ and HR were suppressed in both cell lines with the notable exception of NHEJ (Ku70/80 and DNA-PK) activation in U87MG cells. SMG induced mitochondrial apoptosis with increased expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase, and reduced Bcl-2 level. SMG triggered apoptosis simultaneously via ERK1/2 and AKT activation, and inhibition of GSK3β activity which was reversed by MEK1 and PI3K inhibitors. Taken together, our study revealed that microgravity is a strong stressor to trigger DNA damage and apoptosis through activation of ERK1/2 and AKT, and impairment of DNA repair capacity, albeit with a cell-type difference in DDR and NHEJ regulation, in microglial and glioblastoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ragini Singh
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Aishwarya Jaiswal
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rana P Singh
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India; Special Centre for Systems Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
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9
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Arzt M, Mozneb M, Escopete S, Moses J, Sharma A. The Benefits of Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering in Low-Earth Orbit. Stem Cells Dev 2024; 33:143-147. [PMID: 38326760 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2023.0291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past 15 years, there has been a significant shift in biomedical research toward a major focus on stem cell research. Although stem cells and their derivatives exhibit potential in modeling and mitigating human diseases, the ongoing objective is to enhance their utilization and translational potential. Stem cells are increasingly employed in both academic and commercial settings for a variety of in vitro and in vivo applications in regenerative medicine. Notably, accessibility to stem cell research in low-Earth orbit (LEO) has expanded, driven by the unique properties of space, such as microgravity, which cannot exactly be replicated on Earth. As private enterprises continue to grow and launch low-orbit payloads alongside government-funded spaceflight, space has evolved into a more viable destination for scientific exploration. This review underscores the potential benefits of microgravity on fundamental stem cell properties, highlighting the adaptability of cells to their environment and emphasizing physical stimuli as a key factor influencing cultured cells. Previous studies suggest that stimuli such as magnetic fields, shear stress, or gravity impact not only cell kinetics, including differentiation and proliferation, but also therapeutic effects such as cells with improved immunosuppressive capabilities or the ability to identify novel targets to refine disease treatments. With the rapid progress and sustained advocacy for space research, we propose that the advantageous properties of LEO create novel opportunities in biomanufacturing for regenerative medicine, spanning disease modeling, the development of stem cell-derived products, and biofabrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelyn Arzt
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Maedeh Mozneb
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sean Escopete
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Graduate PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jemima Moses
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- CIRM Bridges to Stem Cell Research Program, California State University, Channel Islands, California, USA
| | - Arun Sharma
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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10
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Tran MT, Ho CNQ, Hoang SN, Doan CC, Nguyen MT, Van HD, Ly CN, Le CPM, Hoang HNQ, Nguyen HTM, Truong HT, To QM, Nguyen TTT, Le LT. Morphological Changes of 3T3 Cells under Simulated Microgravity. Cells 2024; 13:344. [PMID: 38391957 PMCID: PMC10887114 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cells are sensitive to changes in gravity, especially the cytoskeletal structures that determine cell morphology. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of simulated microgravity (SMG) on 3T3 cell morphology, as demonstrated by a characterization of the morphology of cells and nuclei, alterations of microfilaments and microtubules, and changes in cycle progression. METHODS 3T3 cells underwent induced SMG for 72 h with Gravite®, while the control group was under 1G. Fluorescent staining was applied to estimate the morphology of cells and nuclei and the cytoskeleton distribution of 3T3 cells. Cell cycle progression was assessed by using the cell cycle app of the Cytell microscope, and Western blot was conducted to determine the expression of the major structural proteins and main cell cycle regulators. RESULTS The results show that SMG led to decreased nuclear intensity, nuclear area, and nuclear shape and increased cell diameter in 3T3 cells. The 3T3 cells in the SMG group appeared to have a flat form and diminished microvillus formation, while cells in the control group displayed an apical shape and abundant microvilli. The 3T3 cells under SMG exhibited microtubule distribution surrounding the nucleus, compared to the perinuclear accumulation in control cells. Irregular forms of the contractile ring and polar spindle were observed in 3T3 cells under SMG. The changes in cytoskeleton structure were caused by alterations in the expression of major cytoskeletal proteins, including β-actin and α-tubulin 3. Moreover, SMG induced 3T3 cells into the arrest phase by reducing main cell cycle related genes, which also affected the formation of cytoskeleton structures such as microfilaments and microtubules. CONCLUSIONS These results reveal that SMG generated morphological changes in 3T3 cells by remodeling the cytoskeleton structure and downregulating major structural proteins and cell cycle regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Thi Tran
- Faculty of Applied Technology, School of Technology, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam;
| | - Chi Nguyen Quynh Ho
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Biotechnology Department, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City 100000, Vietnam
| | - Son Nghia Hoang
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Biotechnology Department, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City 100000, Vietnam
| | - Chung Chinh Doan
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Biotechnology Department, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City 100000, Vietnam
| | - Minh Thai Nguyen
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
| | - Huy Duc Van
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
| | - Cang Ngoc Ly
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
| | - Cuong Phan Minh Le
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
| | - Huy Nghia Quang Hoang
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Biotechnology Department, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City 100000, Vietnam
| | - Han Thai Minh Nguyen
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Biotechnology Innovation Center, University of New Hampshire, Manchester, NH 03101, USA
| | - Han Thi Truong
- Department of Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea;
| | - Quan Minh To
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Science, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam;
| | - Tram Thi Thuy Nguyen
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Faculty of General Biomedical, University of Physical Education and Sport, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Long Thanh Le
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (C.N.Q.H.); (S.N.H.); (C.C.D.); (M.T.N.); (H.D.V.); (C.N.L.); (C.P.M.L.); (H.N.Q.H.); (H.T.M.N.); (T.T.T.N.)
- Biotechnology Department, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City 100000, Vietnam
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11
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Duscher AA, Vroom MM, Foster JS. Impact of modeled microgravity stress on innate immunity in a beneficial animal-microbe symbiosis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2912. [PMID: 38316910 PMCID: PMC10844198 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53477-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The innate immune response is the first line of defense for all animals to not only detect invading microbes and toxins but also sense and interface with the environment. One such environment that can significantly affect innate immunity is spaceflight. In this study, we explored the impact of microgravity stress on key elements of the NFκB innate immune pathway. The symbiosis between the bobtail squid Euprymna scolopes and its beneficial symbiont Vibrio fischeri was used as a model system under a simulated microgravity environment. The expression of genes associated with the NFκB pathway was monitored over time as the symbiosis progressed. Results revealed that although the onset of the symbiosis was the major driver in the differential expression of NFκB signaling, the stress of simulated low-shear microgravity also caused a dysregulation of expression. Several genes were expressed at earlier time points suggesting that elements of the E. scolopes NFκB pathway are stress-inducible, whereas expression of other pathway components was delayed. The results provide new insights into the role of NFκB signaling in the squid-vibrio symbiosis, and how the stress of microgravity negatively impacts the host immune response. Together, these results provide a foundation to develop mitigation strategies to maintain host-microbe homeostasis during spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandrea A Duscher
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Space Life Science Lab, University of Florida, Merritt Island, FL, 32953, USA
- Chesapeake Bay Governor's School, Warsaw, VA, 22572, USA
| | - Madeline M Vroom
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Space Life Science Lab, University of Florida, Merritt Island, FL, 32953, USA
- Vaxxinity, Space Life Sciences Lab, Merritt Island, FL, 32953, USA
| | - Jamie S Foster
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Space Life Science Lab, University of Florida, Merritt Island, FL, 32953, USA.
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12
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Sheet S, Sathishkumar Y, Acharya S, Lee YS. Exposure of Legionella pneumophila to low-shear modeled microgravity: impact on stress response, membrane lipid composition, pathogenicity to macrophages and interrelated genes expression. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:87. [PMID: 38305908 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03753-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Here, we studied the effect of low-shear modeled microgravity (LSMMG) on cross stress resistance (heat, acid, and oxidative), fatty acid content, and pathogenicity along with alteration in expression of stress-/virulence-associated genes in Legionella pneumophila. The stress resistance analysis result indicated that bacteria cultivated under LSMMG environments showed higher resistance with elevated D-values at 55 °C and in 1 mM of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) conditions compared to normal gravity (NG)-grown bacteria. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in tolerance (p < 0.05) toward simulated gastric fluid (pH-2.5) acid conditions. In fatty acid analysis, our result showed that a total amount of saturated and cyclic fatty acids was increased in LSMMG-grown cells; as a consequence, they might possess low membrane fluidity. An upregulated expression level was noticed for stress-related genes (hslV, htrA, grpE, groL, htpG, clpB, clpX, dnaJ, dnaK, rpoH, rpoE, rpoS, kaiB, kaiC, lpp1114, ahpC1, ahpC2, ahpD, grlA, and gst) under LSMMG conditions. The reduced virulence (less intracellular bacteria and less % of induce apoptosis in RAW 264.7 macrophages) of L. pneumophila under LSMMG conditions may be because of downregulation related genes (dotA, dotB, dotC, dotD, dotG, dotH, dotL, dotM, dotN, icmK, icmB, icmS, icmT, icmW, ladC, rtxA, letA, rpoN, fleQ, fleR, and fliA). In the LSMMG group, the expression of inflammation-related factors, such as IL-1α, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8, was observed to be reduced in infected macrophages. Also, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed less number of LSMMG-cultivated bacteria attached to the host macrophages compared to NG. Thus, our study provides understandings about the changes in lipid composition and different genes expression due to LSMMG conditions, which apparently influence the alterations of L. pneumophila' stress/virulence response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunirmal Sheet
- Department of Wood Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Satabdi Acharya
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, 567, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Yang Soo Lee
- Department of Wood Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Waisberg E, Ong J, Masalkhi M, Lee AG, Berdahl J. Anatomical considerations for reducing ocular emergencies during spaceflight. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:505-508. [PMID: 37243845 PMCID: PMC10808690 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03407-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The privatization of space travel is opening civilian spaceflight to an unprecedented number of individuals now and in the immediate future. The increase in the number and diversity of space travelers will mean increased exposure to both physiologic and pathologic changes observed during acute and prolonged microgravity. AIMS In this paper, we describe the anatomic, physiologic, and pharmacologic factors to consider that impact acute angle-closure glaucoma risk during spaceflight. CONCLUSIONS Based on these factors, we elaborate upon areas of medical considerations and provide future recommendations that may aid in reducing the risk of acute angle-closure glaucoma in the next era of spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Waisberg
- University College Dublin School of Medicine, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Joshua Ong
- Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Mouayad Masalkhi
- University College Dublin School of Medicine, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrew G Lee
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- The Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- A&M College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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14
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Kourtidou-Papadeli C, Vernikos J. Lying in bed is bad for your health. Using gravity therapy accelerates rehabilitation. Life Sci Space Res (Amst) 2024; 40:19-20. [PMID: 38245344 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Rapid deconditioning and comprehensive deleterious physiological changes that result in bedrest affect every system, function and cell of the body. It was assumed that the inherent inactivity was the cause of the problem, and that exercise would restore good health (Vernikos, 2018). However, numerous studies exploring different types and bouts of exercise once a day during bedrest produced only partial benefits. The usual frequent signal to the vestibular system of the inner ear and the brain, of changing posture, such as standing up regularly during a normal day's activities, goes silent in the microgravity of space, in bedrest or when sitting continuously. Making frequent use of gravity stimulation by standing up often throughout the day accelerates rehabilitation. Though centrifugation has been used in the aerospace field, this is a new approach in clinical practice. Postural change apart, another type of Gravity Therapy is the passive riding of a human centrifuge with or without activity. Accelerated rehabilitation through Gravity Therapy can get patients up and about, back to health sooner, in addition to cutting practical and emotional costs of rehabilitation dramatically. KEY POINT: Other than getting a good night's sleep, spending too much time in bed is bad for your health.
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15
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Ge J, Yue Y, Nie HY, Liu KG, Li H, Lin HG, Zhang T, Yan HF, Sun HW, Yang JW, Zhou JL, Cui Y. Simulated microgravity altered the gene expression profiles and inhibited the proliferation of Kupffer cells in the early phase by downregulating LMO2 and EZH2. Life Sci Space Res (Amst) 2024; 40:21-34. [PMID: 38245345 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Microgravity is a primary challenge that need to overcome, when human travel to space. Our study provided evidence that Kupffer cells (KCs) are sensitive to simulated microgravity (SMG), and no similar research report has been found in the literature. Using transcriptome sequencing technology, it was showed that 631 genes were upregulated and 801 genes were downregulated in KCs after treatment under SMG for 3 days. The GO analysis indicated that the proliferation of KCs was affected when exposed to SMG for 3 days. CCK-8 assay confirmed that the proliferation of KCs was inhibited in the third day under the environment of SMG. Furthermore, we identified 8 key genes that affect the proliferation of KCs and predicted 2 transcription factors (TFs) that regulate the 8 key genes. Significantly, we found that microgravity could affect the expression of LMO2 and EZH2 to reduce the transcription of Racgap1, Ccna2, Nek2, Aurka, Plk1, Haus4, Cdc20, Bub1b, which resulting in the reduction in KCs proliferation. These finding suggested that the inhibition of KCs proliferation under microgravity may influence the homeostasis of liver, and LMO2 and EZH2 can be the targets in management of KCs' disturbance in the future practice of space medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ge
- Department of General Surgery, The 306th Hospital of PLA-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yuan Yue
- Department of General Surgery, The 306th Hospital of PLA-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hong-Yun Nie
- Department of General Surgery, The 306th Hospital of PLA-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Kai-Ge Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Hai-Guan Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hong-Feng Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hong-Wei Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jian-Wu Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jin-Lian Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yan Cui
- Department of General Surgery, The 306th Hospital of PLA-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, 100101, China; Department of General Surgery, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, 100101, China.
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16
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Dontre AJ. Weighing the impact of microgravity on vestibular and visual functions. Life Sci Space Res (Amst) 2024; 40:51-61. [PMID: 38245348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Numerous technological challenges have been overcome to realize human space exploration. As mission durations gradually lengthen, the next obstacle is a set of physical limitations. Extended exposure to microgravity poses multiple threats to various bodily systems. Two of these systems are of particular concern for the success of future space missions. The vestibular system includes the otolith organs, which are stimulated in gravity but unloaded in microgravity. This impairs perception, posture, and coordination, all of which are relevant to mission success. Similarly, vision is impaired in many space travelers due to possible intracranial pressure changes or fluid shifts in the brain. As humankind prepares for extended missions to Mars and beyond, it is imperative to compensate for these perils in prolonged weightlessness. Possible countermeasures are considered such as exercise regimens, improved nutrition, and artificial gravity achieved with a centrifuge or spacecraft rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Dontre
- School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University, 2020 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA; Department of Communications, Behavioral, and Natural Sciences, Franklin University, 201 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215, USA.
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17
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Allred AR, Weiss H, Clark TK, Stirling L. An Augmented Reality Hand-Eye Sensorimotor Impairment Assessment for Spaceflight Operations. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2024; 95:69-78. [PMID: 38263106 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.6313.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Following a transition from microgravity to a gravity-rich environment (e.g., Earth, Moon, or Mars), astronauts experience sensorimotor impairment, primarily from a reinterpretation of vestibular cues, which can impact their ability to perform mission-critical tasks. To enable future exploration-class missions, the development of lightweight, space-conscious assessments for astronauts transitioning between gravity environments without expert assistance is needed.METHODS: We examined differences in performance during a two-dimensional (2D) hand-eye multidirectional tapping task, implemented in augmented reality in subjects (N = 20) with and without the presence of a vestibular-dominated sensorimotor impairment paradigm: the binaural bipolar application of a pseudorandom galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) signal. Metrics associated with both the impairment paradigm and task performance were assessed.RESULTS: Medial-lateral sway during balance on an anterior-posterior sway-referenced platform with eyes closed was most affected by GVS (effect size: 1.2), in addition to anterior-posterior sway (effect size: 0.63) and the vestibular index (effect size: 0.65). During the augmented reality task, an increase in time to completion (effect size: 0.63), number of misses (effect size: 0.52), and head linear accelerations (effect size: 0.30) were found in the presence of the selected GVS waveform.DISCUSSION: Findings indicate that this multidirectional tapping task may detect emergent vestibular-dominated impairment (near landing day performance) in astronauts. Decrements in speed and accuracy indicate this impairment may hinder crews' ability to acquire known target locations while in a static standing posture. The ability to track these decrements can support mission operations decisions.Allred AR, Weiss H, Clark TK, Stirling L. An augmented reality hand-eye sensorimotor impairment assessment for spaceflight operations. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(2):69-78.
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18
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Yin Y, Yang J, Gao G, Zhou H, Chi B, Yang HY, Li J, Wang Y. Enhancing cell-scale performance via sustained release of the varicella-zoster virus antigen from a microneedle patch under simulated microgravity. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:763-775. [PMID: 38164004 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01440a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The immune system of astronauts might become weakened in the microgravity environment in space, and the dormant varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in the body might be reactivated, seriously affecting their work and safety. For working in orbit for the long term, there is currently no efficient and durable delivery system of general vaccines in a microgravity environment. Accordingly, based on the previous foundation, we designed, modified, and synthesized a biodegradable and biocompatible copolymer, polyethylene glycol-polysulfamethazine carbonate urethane (PEG-PSCU) that could be mainly adopted to fabricate a novel sustained-release microneedle (S-R MN) patch. Compared with conventional biodegradable microneedles, this S-R MN patch could not only efficiently encapsulate protein vaccines (varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein E, VZV gE) but also further prolong the release time of VZV gE in a simulated microgravity (SMG) environment. Eventually, we verified the activation of dendritic cells by VZV gE released from the S-R MN patch in an SMG environment and the positive bioeffect of activated dendritic cells on lymphocytes using an in vitro lymph node model. This study is of great significance for the exploration of long-term specific immune responses to the VZV in an SMG environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yin
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Junyuan Yang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Ge Gao
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Huaijuan Zhou
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Bowen Chi
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China.
| | - Hong Yu Yang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin City 132022, Jilin Province, China.
| | - Jinhua Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Yilong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100070, China.
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19
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Forghani P, Rashid A, Armand LC, Wolfson D, Liu R, Cho HC, Maxwell JT, Jo H, Salaita K, Xu C. Simulated microgravity improves maturation of cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2243. [PMID: 38278855 PMCID: PMC10817987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52453-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-CMs) possess tremendous potential for basic research and translational application. However, these cells structurally and functionally resemble fetal cardiomyocytes, which is a major limitation of these cells. Microgravity can significantly alter cell behavior and function. Here we investigated the effect of simulated microgravity on hiPSC-CM maturation. Following culture under simulated microgravity in a random positioning machine for 7 days, 3D hiPSC-CMs had increased mitochondrial content as detected by a mitochondrial protein and mitochondrial DNA to nuclear DNA ratio. The cells also had increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Consistently, simulated microgravity increased mitochondrial respiration in 3D hiPSC-CMs, as indicated by higher levels of maximal respiration and ATP content, suggesting improved metabolic maturation in simulated microgravity cultures compared with cultures under normal gravity. Cells from simulated microgravity cultures also had improved Ca2+ transient parameters, a functional characteristic of more mature cardiomyocytes. In addition, these cells had improved structural properties associated with more mature cardiomyocytes, including increased sarcomere length, z-disc length, nuclear diameter, and nuclear eccentricity. These findings indicate that microgravity enhances the maturation of hiPSC-CMs at the structural, metabolic, and functional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Forghani
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Aysha Rashid
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Lawrence C Armand
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - David Wolfson
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hee Cheol Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Joshua T Maxwell
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Khalid Salaita
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Chunhui Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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20
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Melica ME, Cialdai F, La Regina G, Risaliti C, Dafichi T, Peired AJ, Romagnani P, Monici M, Lasagni L. Modeled microgravity unravels the roles of mechanical forces in renal progenitor cell physiology. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:20. [PMID: 38233961 PMCID: PMC10795253 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03633-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The glomerulus is a highly complex system, composed of different interdependent cell types that are subjected to various mechanical stimuli. These stimuli regulate multiple cellular functions, and changes in these functions may contribute to tissue damage and disease progression. To date, our understanding of the mechanobiology of glomerular cells is limited, with most research focused on the adaptive response of podocytes. However, it is crucial to recognize the interdependence between podocytes and parietal epithelial cells, in particular with the progenitor subset, as it plays a critical role in various manifestations of glomerular diseases. This highlights the necessity to implement the analysis of the effects of mechanical stress on renal progenitor cells. METHODS Microgravity, modeled by Rotary Cell Culture System, has been employed as a system to investigate how renal progenitor cells respond to alterations in the mechanical cues within their microenvironment. Changes in cell phenotype, cytoskeleton organization, cell proliferation, cell adhesion and cell capacity for differentiation into podocytes were analyzed. RESULTS In modeled microgravity conditions, renal progenitor cells showed altered cytoskeleton and focal adhesion organization associated with a reduction in cell proliferation, cell adhesion and spreading capacity. Moreover, mechanical forces appeared to be essential for renal progenitor differentiation into podocytes. Indeed, when renal progenitors were exposed to a differentiative agent in modeled microgravity conditions, it impaired the acquisition of a complex podocyte-like F-actin cytoskeleton and the expression of specific podocyte markers, such as nephrin and nestin. Importantly, the stabilization of the cytoskeleton with a calcineurin inhibitor, cyclosporine A, rescued the differentiation of renal progenitor cells into podocytes in modeled microgravity conditions. CONCLUSIONS Alterations in the organization of the renal progenitor cytoskeleton due to unloading conditions negatively affect the regenerative capacity of these cells. These findings strengthen the concept that changes in mechanical cues can initiate a pathophysiological process in the glomerulus, not only altering podocyte actin cytoskeleton, but also extending the detrimental effect to the renal progenitor population. This underscores the significance of the cytoskeleton as a druggable target for kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Melica
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Cialdai
- ASAcampus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div., Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Gilda La Regina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Risaliti
- ASAcampus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div., Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Tommaso Dafichi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Julie Peired
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Paola Romagnani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Monici
- ASAcampus Joint Laboratory, ASA Res. Div., Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
| | - Laura Lasagni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 50, 50134, Florence, Italy
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21
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Graf J, Schulz H, Wehland M, Corydon TJ, Sahana J, Abdelfattah F, Wuest SL, Egli M, Krüger M, Kraus A, Wise PM, Infanger M, Grimm D. Omics Studies of Tumor Cells under Microgravity Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:926. [PMID: 38255998 PMCID: PMC10815863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is defined as a group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth, expansion, and progression with metastasis. Various signaling pathways are involved in its development. Malignant tumors exhibit a high morbidity and mortality. Cancer research increased our knowledge about some of the underlying mechanisms, but to this day, our understanding of this disease is unclear. High throughput omics technology and bioinformatics were successful in detecting some of the unknown cancer mechanisms. However, novel groundbreaking research and ideas are necessary. A stay in orbit causes biochemical and molecular biological changes in human cancer cells which are first, and above all, due to microgravity (µg). The µg-environment provides conditions that are not reachable on Earth, which allow researchers to focus on signaling pathways controlling cell growth and metastasis. Cancer research in space already demonstrated how cancer cell-exposure to µg influenced several biological processes being involved in cancer. This novel approach has the potential to fight cancer and to develop future cancer strategies. Space research has been shown to impact biological processes in cancer cells like proliferation, apoptosis, cell survival, adhesion, migration, the cytoskeleton, the extracellular matrix, focal adhesion, and growth factors, among others. This concise review focuses on publications related to genetic, transcriptional, epigenetic, proteomic, and metabolomic studies on tumor cells exposed to real space conditions or to simulated µg using simulation devices. We discuss all omics studies investigating different tumor cell types from the brain and hematological system, sarcomas, as well as thyroid, prostate, breast, gynecologic, gastrointestinal, and lung cancers, in order to gain new and innovative ideas for understanding the basic biology of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Graf
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
| | - Herbert Schulz
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
| | - Markus Wehland
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
| | - Thomas J. Corydon
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (T.J.C.); (J.S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jayashree Sahana
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (T.J.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Fatima Abdelfattah
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
| | - Simon L. Wuest
- Space Biology Group, Institute of Medical Engineering, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 6052 Hergiswil, Switzerland (M.E.)
| | - Marcel Egli
- Space Biology Group, Institute of Medical Engineering, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 6052 Hergiswil, Switzerland (M.E.)
- National Center for Biomedical Research in Space, Innovation Cluster Space and Aviation (UZH Space Hub), University Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
| | - Armin Kraus
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto von Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Petra M. Wise
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, 4650 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | - Manfred Infanger
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto von Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.G.); (H.S.); (M.W.); (F.A.); (M.K.); (P.M.W.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto von Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (A.K.); (M.I.)
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (T.J.C.); (J.S.)
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22
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Totsline N, Kniel KE, Sabagyanam C, Bais HP. Simulated microgravity facilitates stomatal ingression by Salmonella in lettuce and suppresses a biocontrol agent. Sci Rep 2024; 14:898. [PMID: 38195662 PMCID: PMC10776768 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51573-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
As human spaceflight increases in duration, cultivation of crops in spaceflight is crucial to protecting human health under microgravity and elevated oxidative stress. Foodborne pathogens (e.g., Salmonella enterica) carried by leafy green vegetables are a significant cause of human disease. Our previous work showed that Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium suppresses defensive closure of foliar stomata in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to ingress interior tissues of leaves. While there are no reported occurrences of foodborne disease in spaceflight to date, known foodborne pathogens persist aboard the International Space Station and space-grown lettuce has been colonized by a diverse microbiome including bacterial genera known to contain human pathogens. Interactions between leafy green vegetables and human bacterial pathogens under microgravity conditions present in spaceflight are unknown. Additionally, stomatal dynamics under microgravity conditions need further elucidation. Here, we employ a slow-rotating 2-D clinostat to simulate microgravity upon in-vitro lettuce plants following a foliar inoculation with S. enterica Typhimurium and use confocal microscopy to measure stomatal width in fixed leaf tissue. Our results reveal significant differences in average stomatal aperture width between an unrotated vertical control, plants rotated at 2 revolutions per minute (2 RPM), and 4 RPM, with and without the presence of S. typhimurium. Interestingly, we found stomatal aperture width in the presence of S. typhimurium to be increased under rotation as compared to unrotated inoculated plants. Using confocal Z-stacking, we observed greater average depth of stomatal ingression by S. typhimurium in lettuce under rotation at 4 RPM compared to unrotated and inoculated plants, along with greater in planta populations of S. typhimurium in lettuce rotated at 4 RPM using serial dilution plating of homogenized surface sterilized leaves. Given these findings, we tested the ability of the plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) Bacillus subtilis strain UD1022 to transiently restrict stomatal apertures of lettuce both alone and co-inoculated with S. typhimurium under rotated and unrotated conditions as a means of potentially reducing stomatal ingression by S. typhimurium under simulated microgravity. Surprisingly, rotation at 4 RPM strongly inhibited the ability of UD1022 alone to restrict stomatal apertures and attenuated its efficacy as a biocontrol following co-inoculation with S. typhimurium. Our results highlight potential spaceflight food safety issues unique to production of crops in microgravity conditions and suggest microgravity may dramatically reduce the ability of PGPRs to restrict stomatal apertures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Totsline
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19713, USA.
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, 311 AP Biopharma, 590 Avenue 1743, Newark, DE, 19713, USA.
| | - Kalmia E Kniel
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
| | - Chandran Sabagyanam
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, 311 AP Biopharma, 590 Avenue 1743, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
| | - Harsh P Bais
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19713, USA.
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, 311 AP Biopharma, 590 Avenue 1743, Newark, DE, 19713, USA.
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23
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Leuti A, Fava M, Pellegrini N, Forte G, Fanti F, Della Valle F, De Dominicis N, Sergi M, Maccarrone M. Simulated Microgravity Affects Pro-Resolving Properties of Primary Human Monocytes. Cells 2024; 13:100. [PMID: 38201304 PMCID: PMC10778078 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Space-related stressors such as microgravity are associated with cellular and molecular alterations of the immune and inflammatory homeostasis that have been linked to the disorders that astronauts suffer from during their missions. Most of the research of the past 30 years has consistently established that innate adaptive immune cells represent a target of microgravity, which leads to their defective or dysfunctional activation, as well as to an altered ability to produce soluble mediators-e.g., cytokines/chemokines and bioactive lipids-that altogether control tissue homeostasis. Bioactive lipids include a vast array of endogenous molecules of immune origin that control the induction, intensity and outcome of the inflammatory events. However, none of the papers published so far focus on a newly characterized class of lipid mediators called specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), which orchestrate the "resolution of inflammation"-i.e., the active control and confinement of the inflammatory torrent mostly driven by eicosanoids. SPMs are emerging as crucial players in those processes that avoid acute inflammation to degenerate into a chronic event. Given that SPMs, along with their metabolism and signaling, are being increasingly linked to many inflammatory disorders, their study seems of the outmost importance in the research of pathological processes involved in space-related diseases, also with the perspective of developing therapeutic countermeasures. Here, we show that microgravity, simulated in the rotary cell culture system (RCCS) developed by NASA, rearranges SPM receptors both at the gene and protein level, in human monocytes but not in lymphocytes. Moreover, RCCS treatment reduces the biosynthesis of a prominent SPM like resolvin (Rv) D1. These findings strongly suggest that not only microgravity can impair the functioning of immune cells at the level of bioactive lipids directly involved in proper inflammation, but it does so in a cell-specific manner, possibly perturbing immune homeostasis with monocytes being primary targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Leuti
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy; (N.P.); (G.F.)
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marina Fava
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (F.F.); (F.D.V.)
| | - Niccolò Pellegrini
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy; (N.P.); (G.F.)
| | - Giulia Forte
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy; (N.P.); (G.F.)
| | - Federico Fanti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (F.F.); (F.D.V.)
| | - Francesco Della Valle
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (F.F.); (F.D.V.)
| | - Noemi De Dominicis
- Department of Physics, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy;
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical and Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Manuel Sergi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical and Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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24
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Romano LE, van Loon JJWA, Izzo LG, Iovane M, Aronne G. Effects of altered gravity on growth and morphology in Wolffia globosa implications for bioregenerative life support systems and space-based agriculture. Sci Rep 2024; 14:410. [PMID: 38172193 PMCID: PMC10764921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49680-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the response of plants to varied gravitational conditions is vital for developing effective food production in space bioregenerative life support systems. This study examines the impact of altered gravity conditions on the growth and morphological responses of Wolffia globosa (commonly known as "water lentils" or "duckweed"), assessing its potential as a space crop. Although an experiment testing the effect of simulated microgravity on Wolffia globosa has been previously conducted, for the first time, we investigated the effect of multiple gravity levels on the growth and morphological traits of Wolffia globosa plants. The plant responses to simulated microgravity, simulated partial gravity (Moon), and hypergravity environments were evaluated using random positioning machines and the large-diameter centrifuge. As hypothesized, we observed a slight reaction to different gravitational levels in the growth and morphological traits of Wolffia globosa. The relative growth rates (RGR) of plants subjected to simulated microgravity and partial gravity were reduced when compared to those in other gravity levels. The morphological analysis revealed differences in plant dimensions and frond length-to-width ratios under diverse gravity conditions. Our findings showed that Wolffia globosa is responsive to gravitational changes, with its growth and morphological adaptations being slightly influenced by varying gravitational environments. As for other crop species, growth was reduced by the microgravity conditions; however, RGR remained substantial at 0.33 a day. In conclusion, this study underscores the potential of Wolffia globosa as a space crop and its adaptability to diverse gravitational conditions, contributing to the development of sustainable food production and bioregenerative life support systems for future space exploration missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leone Ermes Romano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy.
| | - Jack J W A van Loon
- Department Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Pathology, Amsterdam Movement Sciences and Amsterdam Bone Center (ABC), Amsterdam University Medical Center Location VUmc and Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- TEC-MMG-LIS Lab, European Space Agency (ESA) Technology Center (ESTEC), Noordwijk, The Netherlands
| | - Luigi Gennaro Izzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Maurizio Iovane
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Giovanna Aronne
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
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25
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Kang L, Li Q, Jing Y, Ren F, Li E, Zeng X, Xu Y, Wang D, Wang Q, Sun G, Wei L, Diao Y. Auricularia auricula Anionic Polysaccharide Nanoparticles for Gastrointestinal Delivery of Pinus koraiensis Polyphenol Used in Bone Protection under Weightlessness. Molecules 2024; 29:245. [PMID: 38202827 PMCID: PMC10780251 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Auricularia auricula polysaccharides used in Pinus koraiensis polyphenol encapsulation and delivery under weightlessness are rarely reported. In this study, an anionic polysaccharide fragment named AAP Iα with a molecular weight of 133.304 kDa was isolated and purified to construct a polyphenol encapsulation system. Nanoparticles named NPs-PP loaded with a rough surface for Pinus koraiensis polyphenol (PP) delivery were fabricated by AAP Iα and ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PL). SEM and the DLS tracking method were used to observe continuous changes in AAP Iα, ε-PL and PP on the nanoparticles' rough surface assembly, as well as the dispersion and stability. Hydrophilic, monodisperse and highly negative charged nanoparticles can be formed at AAP Iα 0.8 mg/mL, ε-PL 20 μg/mL and PP 80 μg/mL. FT-IR was used to determine their electrostatic interactions. Release kinetic studies showed that nanoparticles had an ideal gastrointestinal delivery effect. NPs-PP loaded were assembled through electrostatic interactions between polyelectrolytes after hydrogen bonding formation in PP-AAP Iα and PP-ε-PL, respectively. Colon adhesion properties and PP delivery in vivo of nanoparticles showed that NPs-PP loaded had high adhesion efficiency to the colonic mucosa under simulated microgravity and could enhance PP bioavailability. These results suggest that AAP Iα can be used in PP encapsulation and delivery under microgravity in astronaut food additives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Kang
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China (Y.J.); (F.R.)
| | - Qiao Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150000, China (E.L.)
| | - Yonghui Jing
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China (Y.J.); (F.R.)
| | - Feiyan Ren
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China (Y.J.); (F.R.)
| | - Erzhuo Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150000, China (E.L.)
| | - Xiangyin Zeng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150000, China (E.L.)
| | - Yier Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150000, China (E.L.)
| | - Dongwei Wang
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China (Y.J.); (F.R.)
| | - Qiang Wang
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China (Y.J.); (F.R.)
| | - Guicai Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Lijun Wei
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150000, China (E.L.)
| | - Yan Diao
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China (Y.J.); (F.R.)
- Collaboration Innovation Center for Tissue Repair Material Engineering Technology, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637002, China
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26
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Gonzalez Viejo C, Harris N, Fuentes S. Assessment of changes in sensory perception, biometrics and emotional response for spaceexploration by simulating microgravity positions. Food Res Int 2024; 175:113827. [PMID: 38129014 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Long-term space exploration endeavors, encompassing journeys from the Earth to the Moon by 2030 and subsequent voyages from the Moon to Mars by 2040, necessitate the utilization of plant-based materials not solely for sustenance and refreshments but also the production of pharmaceuticals and repair compounds, such as plastics, among others. Nevertheless, the vital aspects of research in this domain pertain to the nutritional value and sensory perception associated with plant-based food. Prior investigations have shown altered sensory perception in space, manifested as diminished olfactory sensations and heightened taste perception (saltiness and sweetness). Nonetheless, studies concerning changes in aroma, basic tastes, and mouthfeel have been limited due to the logistical challenges associated with conducting experiments in the unique environment of space. To address this limitation, the present study employed sensory trials and biometrics from video using simulated microgravity chairs to simulate alterations in sensory perception akin to those encountered in space conditions. The findings of this study align with previous reports of changes in aroma and taste perception and contribute to the understanding of changes in the mouthfeel, heart rate, blood pressure, and emotional response that could be experienced in space environments. These experimental endeavors are critical to facilitate the advancement and development of novel plants and food materials tailored to the requirements of long-term space exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gonzalez Viejo
- Digital Agriculture, Food and Wine Research Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Plants in Space, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Natalie Harris
- Digital Agriculture, Food and Wine Research Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Sigfredo Fuentes
- Digital Agriculture, Food and Wine Research Group, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Plants in Space, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Science, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N.L. 64849, Mexico.
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27
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Mitrokhin VM, Kamkina OV, Kamkin AG, Rodina AS, Zolotareva AD, Zolotarev VI, Kazansky VE, Gorbacheva LR, Bilichenko AS, Shileiko SA, Mladenov MI. Simulated Microgravity and Hypergravity Affect the Expression Level of Soluble Guanylate Cyclase, Adenylate Cyclase, and Phosphodiesterase Genesin Rat Ventricular Cardiomyocytes. Bull Exp Biol Med 2024; 176:359-362. [PMID: 38342810 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-024-06024-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Ion channels activity is regulated through soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) and adenylate cyclase (AC) pathways, while phosphodiesterases (PDE) control the intracellular levels of cAMP and cGMP. Here we applied RNA transcriptome sequencing to study changes in the gene expression of the sGC, AC, and PDE isoforms in isolated rat ventricular cardiomyocytes under conditions of microgravity and hypergravity. Our results demonstrate that microgravity reduces the expression of sGC isoform genes, while hypergravity increases their expression. For a subset of AC isoforms, gene expression either increased or decreased under both microgravity and hypergravity conditions. The expression of genes encoding 10 PDE isoforms decreased under microgravity, but increased under hypergravity. However, under both microgravity and hypergravity, the gene expression increased for 7 PDE isoforms and decreased for 3 PDE isoforms. Overall, our findings indicate specific gravity-dependent changes in the expression of genes of isoforms associated with the studied enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Mitrokhin
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - O V Kamkina
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - A G Kamkin
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.
| | - A S Rodina
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - A D Zolotareva
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - V I Zolotarev
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - V E Kazansky
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - L R Gorbacheva
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - A S Bilichenko
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - S A Shileiko
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - M I Mladenov
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Li Y, Zhao Y, Zhong G, Xu Q, Tan Y, Xing W, Cao D, Wang Y, Liu C, Li J, Du R, Sun W, Yuan X, Li Y, Liu Z, Jin X, Zhao D, Song J, Wang Y, Kan G, Han X, Liu S, Yuan M, Gao F, Shu J, Li Y, Ling S. Vascular smooth muscle cell-specific miRNA-214 deficiency alleviates simulated microgravity-induced vascular remodeling. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23369. [PMID: 38100642 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300727r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The human cardiovascular system has evolved to accommodate the gravity of Earth. Microgravity during spaceflight has been shown to induce vascular remodeling, leading to a decline in vascular function. The underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Our previous study demonstrated that miR-214 plays a critical role in angiotensin II-induced vascular remodeling by reducing the levels of Smad7 and increasing the phosphorylation of Smad3. However, its role in vascular remodeling evoked by microgravity is not yet known. This study aimed to determine the contribution of miR-214 to the regulation of microgravity-induced vascular remodeling. The results of our study revealed that miR-214 expression was increased in the forebody arteries of both mice and monkeys after simulated microgravity treatment. In vitro, rotation-simulated microgravity-induced VSMC migration, hypertrophy, fibrosis, and inflammation were repressed by miR-214 knockout (KO) in VSMCs. Additionally, miR-214 KO increased the level of Smad7 and decreased the phosphorylation of Smad3, leading to a decrease in downstream gene expression. Furthermore, miR-214 cKO protected against simulated microgravity induced the decline in aorta function and the increase in stiffness. Histological analysis showed that miR-214 cKO inhibited the increases in vascular medial thickness that occurred after simulated microgravity treatment. Altogether, these results demonstrate that miR-214 has potential as a therapeutic target for the treatment of vascular remodeling caused by simulated microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youyou Li
- Department of Physical Education, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yunzhang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardiology & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Guohui Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
- School of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qing Xu
- Core Facilities Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjuan Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
- School of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Dengchao Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yinbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Caizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jianwei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ruikai Du
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Weijia Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xinxin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yeheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Zizhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Dingsheng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jinping Song
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghan Kan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Han
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shujuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Min Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Gao
- School of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingdan Shu
- Department of Physical Education, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingxian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shukuan Ling
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, China
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Wang H, Wang J, Lyu L, Wei S, Zhang C. Numerical simulation on mass transfer in the bone lacunar-canalicular system under different gravity fields. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2024; 27:478-488. [PMID: 36912751 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2023.2187738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
The bone lacunar-canalicular system (LCS) is a unique complex 3D microscopic tubular network structure within the osteon that contains interstitial fluid flow to ensure the efficient transport of signaling molecules, nutrients, and wastes to guarantee the normal physiological activities of bone tissue. The mass transfer laws in the LCS under microgravity and hypergravity are still unclear. In this paper, a multi-scale 3D osteon model was established to mimic the cortical osteon, and a finite element method was used to numerically analyze the mass transfer in the LCS under hypergravity, normal gravity and microgravity and combined with high-intensity exercise conditions. It was shown that hypergravity promoted mass transfer in the LCS to the deep lacunae, and the number of particles in lacunae increased more significantly from normal gravity to hypergravity the further away from the Haversian canal. The microgravity environment inhibited particles transport in the LCS to deep lacunae. Under normal gravity and microgravity, the number of particles in lacunae increased greatly when doing high-intensity exercise compared to stationary standing. This paper presents the first simulation of mass transfer within the LCS with different gravity fields combined with high-intensity exercise using the finite element method. The research suggested that hypergravity can greatly promote mass transfer in the LCS to deep lacunae, and microgravity strongly inhibited this mass transfer; high-intensity exercise increased the mass transfer rate in the LCS. This study provided a new strategy to combat and treat microgravity-induced osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Advanced Mechatronic System Design and Intelligent Control, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Jiaming Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Advanced Mechatronic System Design and Intelligent Control, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Linwei Lyu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Advanced Mechatronic System Design and Intelligent Control, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Shuping Wei
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Advanced Mechatronic System Design and Intelligent Control, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Chunqiu Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory for Advanced Mechatronic System Design and Intelligent Control, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, P.R. China
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30
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Sharma G, Zee PC, Zea L, Curtis PD. Whole genome-scale assessment of gene fitness of Novosphingobium aromaticavorans during spaceflight. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:782. [PMID: 38102595 PMCID: PMC10725011 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09799-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In microgravity, bacteria undergo intriguing physiological adaptations. There have been few attempts to assess global bacterial physiological responses to microgravity, with most studies only focusing on a handful of individual systems. This study assessed the fitness of each gene in the genome of the aromatic compound-degrading Alphaproteobacterium Novosphingobium aromaticavorans during growth in spaceflight. This was accomplished using Comparative TnSeq, which involves culturing the same saturating transposon mutagenized library under two different conditions. To assess gene fitness, a novel comparative TnSeq analytical tool was developed, named TnDivA, that is particularly useful in leveraging biological replicates. In this approach, transposon diversity is represented numerically using a modified Shannon diversity index, which was then converted into effective transposon density. This transformation accounts for variability in read distribution between samples, such as cases where reads were dominated by only a few transposon inserts. Effective density values were analyzed using multiple statistical methods, including log2-fold change, least-squares regression analysis, and Welch's t-test. The results obtained across applied statistical methods show a difference in the number of significant genes identified. However, the functional categories of genes important to growth in microgravity showed similar patterns. Lipid metabolism and transport, energy production, transcription, translation, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis and transport were shown to have high fitness during spaceflight. This suggests that core metabolic processes, including lipid and secondary metabolism, play an important role adapting to stress and promoting growth in microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Sharma
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, 402 Shoemaker Hall, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Peter C Zee
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, 402 Shoemaker Hall, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Luis Zea
- Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Patrick D Curtis
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, 402 Shoemaker Hall, University, MS, 38677, USA.
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31
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Ito Y, Yamagata M, Yamamoto T, Hirasaka K, Nikawa T, Sato T. The reciprocal regulation between mitochondrial-associated membranes and Notch signaling in skeletal muscle atrophy. eLife 2023; 12:RP89381. [PMID: 38099641 PMCID: PMC10723794 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle atrophy and the inhibition of muscle regeneration are known to occur as a natural consequence of aging, yet the underlying mechanisms that lead to these processes in atrophic myofibers remain largely unclear. Our research has revealed that the maintenance of proper mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAM) is vital for preventing skeletal muscle atrophy in microgravity environments. We discovered that the deletion of the mitochondrial fusion protein Mitofusin2 (MFN2), which serves as a tether for MAM, in human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells or the reduction of MAM in differentiated myotubes caused by microgravity interfered with myogenic differentiation process and an increased susceptibility to muscle atrophy, as well as the activation of the Notch signaling pathway. The atrophic phenotype of differentiated myotubes in microgravity and the regenerative capacity of Mfn2-deficient muscle stem cells in dystrophic mice were both ameliorated by treatment with the gamma-secretase inhibitor DAPT. Our findings demonstrate how the orchestration of mitochondrial morphology in differentiated myotubes and regenerating muscle stem cells plays a crucial role in regulating Notch signaling through the interaction of MAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Ito
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Fujita Health UniversityToyoakeJapan
| | - Mari Yamagata
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha UniversityKyotanabeJapan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi), Kyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Medical-risk Avoidance based on iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP)KyotoJapan
| | - Katsuya Hirasaka
- Organization for Marine Science and Technology, Nagasaki University Graduate SchoolNagasakiJapan
| | - Takeshi Nikawa
- Department of Nutritional Physiology, Institute of Medical Nutrition, Tokushima University Graduate SchoolTokushimaJapan
| | - Takahiko Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of MedicineKyotoJapan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Fujita Health UniversityToyoakeJapan
- International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health UniversityToyoakeJapan
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32
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Kazmi S, Farajdokht F, Meynaghizadeh-Zargar R, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Pasokh A, Farzipour M, Farazi N, Hamblin MR, Mahmoudi J. Transcranial photobiomodulation mitigates learning and memory impairments induced by hindlimb unloading in a mouse model of microgravity exposure by suppression of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation signaling pathways. Brain Res 2023; 1821:148583. [PMID: 37717889 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged microgravity exposure causes cognitive impairment. Evidence shows that oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are involved in the causation. Here, we explore the effectiveness of transcranial near-infrared photobiomodulation (PBM) on cognitive deficits in a mouse model of simulated microgravity. 24 adult male C57BL/6 mice were assigned into three groups (8 in each); control, hindlimb unloading (HU), and HU + PBM groups. After surgery to fit the suspension fixing, the animals were housed either in HU cages or in their normal cage for 14 days. The mice in the HU + PBM group received PBM (810 nm laser, 10 Hz, 8 J/cm2) once per day for 14 days. Spatial learning and memory were assessed in the Lashley III maze and hippocampus tissue samples were collected to assess oxidative stress markers and protein expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), and Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Behavioral testing showed that the PBM-treated animals had a shorter latency time to find the target and fewer errors than the HU group. PBM decreased hippocampal lipid peroxidation while increasing antioxidant defense systems (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity) compared to HU mice. PBM increased protein expression of Sirt1, Nrf2, and BDNF while decreasing NF-κB compared to HU mice. Our findings suggested that the protective effect of PBM against HU-induced cognitive impairment involved the activation of the Sirt1/Nrf2 signaling pathway, up-regulation of BDNF, and reduction of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Kazmi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Farajdokht
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Saeed Sadigh-Eteghad
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Pasokh
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mohammad Farzipour
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narmin Farazi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa; Radiation Biology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Mahmoudi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Liu T, Ma Y, Zhao H, Wang P, Niu Y, Hu Y, Shen X, Zhang M, Yan B, Yu J. Hawthorn leaves flavonoids attenuate cardiac remodeling induced by simulated microgravity. Pharm Biol 2023; 61:683-695. [PMID: 37096968 PMCID: PMC10132252 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2203194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hawthorn leaves are a kind of widely used medicinal plant in China. The major ingredient, hawthorn leaves flavonoids (HLF), have cardiotonic, cardioprotective, and vascular protective effects. OBJECTIVE The study evaluated the protective role of HLF in cardiac remodelling and the underlying mechanisms under simulated microgravity by hindlimb unloading rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into control, HLF, HU (hindlimb unloading) and HU + HLF groups (n = 8). After HU and daily intragastric administration at the dose of 100 mg/kg/d for 8 weeks, cardiac function and structure were evaluated by biochemical indices and histopathology. We identified the main active compounds and mechanisms involved in the cardioprotective effects of HLF via bioinformatics and molecular docking analysis, and relative signalling pathway activity was verified by Western blot. RESULTS HLF treatment could reverse the HU-induced decline in LV-EF (HU, 55.13% ± 0.98% vs. HU + HLF, 71.16% ± 5.08%), LV-FS (HU, 29.44% ± 0.67% vs. HU + HLF, 41.62% ± 4.34%) and LV mass (HU, 667.99 ± 65.69 mg vs. HU + HLF, 840.02 ± 73.00 mg). Furthermore, HLF treatment significantly increased NPRA expression by 135.39%, PKG by 51.27%, decreased PDE5A by 20.03%, NFATc1 by 41.68% and Rcan1.4 by 54.22%. CONCLUSIONS HLF plays a protective effect on HU-induced cardiac remodelling by enhancing NPRA-cGMP-PKG pathway and suppressing the calcineurin-NFAT pathway, which provides a theoretical basis for use in clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Liu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Yuqi Ma
- Endocrinology Department, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P. R.China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Pengli Wang
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Yan Niu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Yuehuan Hu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Xi Shen
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Mingxia Zhang
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Bing Yan
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Jun Yu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Northwest University Affiliated Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- Xi’an Engineering Technology Research Center for Cardiovascular Active Peptides, Shaanxi, P.R.China
- CONTACT Jun Yu Clinical Experimental Center, Xi’an International Medical Center Hospital, No. 777 Xitai Road Xi’an, Shaanxi710100, P. R. China
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Su X, Fang T, Fang L, Wang D, Jiang X, Liu C, Zhang H, Guo R, Wang J. Effects of short-term exposure to simulated microgravity on the physiology of Bacillus subtilis and multiomic analysis. Can J Microbiol 2023; 69:464-478. [PMID: 37463516 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2023-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
In our study, Bacillus subtilis was disposed to a simulated microgravity (SMG) environment in high-aspect ratio rotating-wall vessel bioreactors for 14 days, while the control group was disposed to the same bioreactors in a normal gravity (NG) environment for 14 days. The B. subtilis strain exposed to the SMG (labeled BSS) showed an enhanced growth ability, increased biofilm formation ability, increased sensitivity to ampicillin sulbactam and cefotaxime, and some metabolic alterations compared with the B. subtilis strain under NG conditions (labeled BSN) and the original strain of B. subtilis (labeled BSO). The differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) associated with an increased growth rate, such as DNA strand exchange activity, oxidoreductase activity, proton-transporting ATP synthase complex, and biosynthetic process, were significantly upregulated in BSS. The enhanced biofilm formation ability may be related with the DEPs of spore germination and protein processing in BSS, and differentially expressed genes involved in protein localization and peptide secretion were also significantly enriched. The results revealed that SMG may increase the level of related functional proteins by upregulating or downregulating affiliated genes to change physiological characteristics and modulate growth ability, biofilm formation ability (epsB, epsC, epsN), antibiotic sensitivity (penP) and metabolism. Our experiment may gives new ideas for the study of space microbiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Su
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Tingzheng Fang
- Sixth Department of Health Care, The Second Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Fang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Dapeng Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xuege Jiang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Changting Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Honglei Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Guo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Medical Center and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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35
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Zhou Y, Lv W, Peng X, Cheng Y, Tu Y, Song G, Luo Q. Simulated microgravity attenuates skin wound healing by inhibiting dermal fibroblast migration via F-actin/YAP signaling pathway. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:2751-2764. [PMID: 37795566 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Skin and its cell components continuously subject to extrinsic and intrinsic mechanical forces and are mechanical sensitive. Disturbed mechanical homeostasis may lead to changes in skin functions. Gravity is the integral mechanical force on the earth, however, how gravity contributes to the maintenance of skin function and how microgravity in space affects the wound healing are poorly understood. Here, using microgravity analogs, we show that simulated microgravity (SMG) inhibits the healing of cutaneous wound and the accumulation of dermal fibroblasts in the wound bed. In vitro, SMG inhibits the migration of human foreskin fibroblast cells (HFF-1), and decreases the F-actin polymerization and YAP (yes-associated protein) activity. The SMG-inhibited migration can be recovered by activating YAP or F-actin polymerization using lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) or jasplakinolide (Jasp), suggesting the involvement of F-actin/YAP signaling pathway in this process. In SMG rats, LPA treatment improves the cutaneous healing with increased dermal fibroblasts in the wound bed. Together, our results demonstrate that SMG attenuates the cutaneous wound healing by inhibiting dermal fibroblast migration, and propose the crucial role of F-actin/YAP mechano-transduction in the maintenance of skin homeostasis under normal gravity, and YAP as a possible therapeutic target for the skin care of astronauts in space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenjun Lv
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiufen Peng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yansiwei Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yun Tu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guanbin Song
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, College of Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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Ramos-Nascimento A, Grenga L, Haange SB, Himmelmann A, Arndt FS, Ly YT, Miotello G, Pible O, Jehmlich N, Engelmann B, von Bergen M, Mulder E, Frings-Meuthen P, Hellweg CE, Jordan J, Rolle-Kampczyk U, Armengaud J, Moeller R. Human gut microbiome and metabolite dynamics under simulated microgravity. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2259033. [PMID: 37749878 PMCID: PMC10524775 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2259033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Artificial Gravity Bed Rest - European Space Agency (AGBRESA) study was the first joint bed rest study by ESA, DLR, and NASA that examined the effect of simulated weightlessness on the human body and assessed the potential benefits of artificial gravity as a countermeasure in an analog of long-duration spaceflight. In this study, we investigated the impact of simulated microgravity on the gut microbiome of 12 participants during a 60-day head-down tilt bed rest at the :envihab facilities. Over 60 days of simulated microgravity resulted in a mild change in the gut microbiome, with distinct microbial patterns and pathway expression in the feces of the countermeasure group compared to the microgravity simulation-only group. Additionally, we found that the countermeasure protocols selectively increased the abundance of beneficial short-chain fatty acids in the gut, such as acetate, butyrate, and propionate. Some physiological signatures also included the modulation of taxa reported to be either beneficial or opportunistic, indicating a mild adaptation in the microbiome network balance. Our results suggest that monitoring the gut microbial catalog along with pathway clustering and metabolite profiling is an informative synergistic strategy to determine health disturbances and the outcome of countermeasure protocols for future space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ramos-Nascimento
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | - Lucia Grenga
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SPI, Bagnols sur Cèze, France
| | - Sven-Bastiaan Haange
- Department of Metabolomics, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexandra Himmelmann
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | - Franca Sabine Arndt
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | - Yen-Tran Ly
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | - Guylaine Miotello
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SPI, Bagnols sur Cèze, France
| | - Olivier Pible
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SPI, Bagnols sur Cèze, France
| | - Nico Jehmlich
- Department of Metabolomics, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Beatrice Engelmann
- Department of Metabolomics, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin von Bergen
- Department of Metabolomics, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Edwin Mulder
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | - Petra Frings-Meuthen
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Jens Jordan
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
| | - Ulrike Rolle-Kampczyk
- Department of Metabolomics, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jean Armengaud
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), SPI, Bagnols sur Cèze, France
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR e.V.), Cologne, Germany
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Bongrand C, Foster JS. Modelled microgravity impacts Vibrio fischeri population structure in a mutualistic association with an animal host. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:3269-3279. [PMID: 37828645 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Perturbations to host-microbe interactions, such as environmental stress, can alter and disrupt homeostasis. In this study, we examined the effects of a stressor, simulated microgravity, on beneficial bacteria behaviours when colonising their host. We studied the bacterium Vibrio fischeri, which establishes a mutualistic association in a symbiosis-specific organ within the bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes. To elucidate how animal-microbe interactions are affected by the stress of microgravity, squid were inoculated with different bacterial strains exhibiting either a dominant- or sharing-colonisation behaviour in High Aspect Ratio Vessels, which simulate the low-shear environment of microgravity. The colonisation behaviours of the sharing and dominant strains under modelled microgravity conditions were determined by counting light-organ homogenate of squids as well as confocal microscopy to assess the partitioning of different strains within the light organ. The results indicated that although the colonisation behaviours of the strains did not change, the population levels of the sharing strains were at lower relative abundance in single-colonised animals exposed to modelled microgravity compared to unit gravity; in addition, there were shifts in the relative abundance of strains in co-colonised squids. Together these results suggest that the initiation of beneficial interactions between microbes and animals can be altered by environmental stress, such as simulated microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clotilde Bongrand
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Space Life Sciences Lab, University of Florida, Merritt Island, Florida, USA
| | - Jamie S Foster
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Space Life Sciences Lab, University of Florida, Merritt Island, Florida, USA
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Mikheeva I, Zhujkova N, Mikhailova G, Shtanchaev R, Pavlik L, Arkhipov V. Morphological changes in motoneurons of the oculomotor nucleus of mice after a 30-day space flight and through a 7-day period of readaptation to earth gravity. Brain Struct Funct 2023; 228:2041-2049. [PMID: 37688593 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-023-02704-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The cellular mechanisms of neuroplastic changes in the structure of motoneurons and neuropils of the oculomotor (III) nuclei in mice after a 30-day space flight and 7 days after landing were studied. The results showed that microgravity caused degenerative phenomena in neurons: a decrease in the number of terminal dendritic branches was found both after flight and after readaptation to Earth's gravity. In mice after the flight, the number of axodendritic synapses was less than in the control, and their number was not restored after the readaptation. The number of mitochondria in the motoneurons of animals after the flight also decreased and after the readaptation reached only the control value. In addition, a significant number of dark motorneurons were found in mice after readaptation, which indicates that degeneration was caused not only by microgravity, but also by a reaction to the landing of the biosatellite. On the contrary, in the trochlear nucleus, as we showed earlier (Mikheeva et al. in Brain Res 15(1795):148077. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2022.148077 , 2022), after readaptation, the dendrites and synaptic contacts were restored, and mitogenesis is significantly enhanced. It has been suggested that morphological changes in the oculomotor nucleus may be the main cause of microgravity-induced nystagmus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Mikheeva
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia.
| | - Natalya Zhujkova
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Gulnara Mikhailova
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Rashid Shtanchaev
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Lyubov Pavlik
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
| | - Vladimir Arkhipov
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
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Miranda S, Vermeesen R, Radstake WE, Parisi A, Ivanova A, Baatout S, Tabury K, Baselet B. Lost in Space? Unmasking the T Cell Reaction to Simulated Space Stressors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16943. [PMID: 38069265 PMCID: PMC10707245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The space environment will expose astronauts to stressors like ionizing radiation, altered gravity fields and elevated cortisol levels, which pose a health risk. Understanding how the interplay between these stressors changes T cells' response is important to better characterize space-related immune dysfunction. We have exposed stimulated Jurkat cells to simulated space stressors (1 Gy, carbon ions/1 Gy photons, 1 µM hydrocortisone (HC), Mars, moon, and microgravity) in a single or combined manner. Pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-2 was measured in the supernatant of Jurkat cells and at the mRNA level. Results show that alone, HC, Mars gravity and microgravity significantly decrease IL-2 presence in the supernatant. 1 Gy carbon ion irradiation showed a smaller impact on IL-2 levels than photon irradiation. Combining exposure to different simulated space stressors seems to have less immunosuppressive effects. Gene expression was less impacted at the time-point collected. These findings showcase a complex T cell response to different conditions and suggest the importance of elevated cortisol levels in the context of space flight, also highlighting the need to use simulated partial gravity technologies to better understand the immune system's response to the space environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Miranda
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; (S.M.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Randy Vermeesen
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; (S.M.)
| | - Wilhelmina E. Radstake
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; (S.M.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alessio Parisi
- Radiation Protection Dosimetry and Calibration Expert Group, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Anna Ivanova
- Data Science Institute (DSI), I-BioStat University of Hasselt, 3590 Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; (S.M.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kevin Tabury
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; (S.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computing, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Bjorn Baselet
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; (S.M.)
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Si S, Shang Y, Ma X, Wang M, Xu B, Zong J, Zhang L, Chen X, Song S. [Collagen peptide partially restores immune function in mice under the condition of X-ray irradiation combined with simulated weightlessness]. Xi Bao Yu Fen Zi Mian Yi Xue Za Zhi 2023; 39:967-972. [PMID: 37980547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effects of collagen peptides on the immune function of mice under the condition of X-ray irradiation combined with simulated weightlessness. Methods Mice were randomly divided into control group, modelling group and collagen peptide group. Mice in collagen peptide group were intraperitoneally injected with collagen peptide (600 mg/kg) once a day from the first day of the experiment, while mice in the other two groups were intraperitoneally injected with normal saline. On the fourth day of the experiment, mice in the modelling group and collagen peptide group were simultaneously exposed to X-ray irradiation (2 Gy) and hindlimb-unloaded simulated weightlessness by tail-suspension. On the 10th day of the experiment, the mice were terminated by cervical dislocation. Automated hematology analyzer was used to detect Leukocyte classification of peripheral blood. Splenic lymphocyte subsets, cell cycle and apoptosis of bone marrow cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. The expressions of 19 plasma cytokines were tested with liquid suspension chips. Results Compared with the control group, the modelling group had a significant reduction in the total number of white blood cells and lymphocytes in the peripheral blood, the total number of splenocyte and the number of T cells, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells in the spleen, an decrease in 18 cytokines in the plasma, and an increase in myelocyte apoptosis in mice of the modelling group. Compared with the modelling group, most immunological parameters had improved in the mice of the collagen peptide group except some cytokines. Conclusion Collagen peptides can effectively improve the immune function of mice under the condition of X-ray irradiation combined with simulated weightlessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoyan Si
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ying Shang
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ma
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Moye Wang
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Bingxin Xu
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jing Zong
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xingming Chen
- Clinical Laboratory Department, Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China. *Corresponding authors, E-mail:
| | - Shujun Song
- Department of Comprehensive Basic Experiment (Division Two), Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing 100101, China. *Corresponding authors, E-mail:
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Cortés-Sánchez JL, Melnik D, Sandt V, Kahlert S, Marchal S, Johnson IRD, Calvaruso M, Liemersdorf C, Wuest SL, Grimm D, Krüger M. Fluid and Bubble Flow Detach Adherent Cancer Cells to Form Spheroids on a Random Positioning Machine. Cells 2023; 12:2665. [PMID: 37998400 PMCID: PMC10670461 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In preparing space and microgravity experiments, the utilization of ground-based facilities is common for initial experiments and feasibility studies. One approach to simulating microgravity conditions on Earth is to employ a random positioning machine (RPM) as a rotary bioreactor. Combined with a suitable low-mass model system, such as cell cultures, these devices simulating microgravity have been shown to produce results similar to those obtained in a space experiment under real microgravity conditions. One of these effects observed under real and simulated microgravity is the formation of spheroids from 2D adherent cancer cell cultures. Since real microgravity cannot be generated in a laboratory on Earth, we aimed to determine which forces lead to the detachment of individual FTC-133 thyroid cancer cells and the formation of tumor spheroids during culture with exposure to random positioning modes. To this end, we subdivided the RPM motion into different static and dynamic orientations of cell culture flasks. We focused on the molecular activation of the mechanosignaling pathways previously associated with spheroid formation in microgravity. Our results suggest that RPM-induced spheroid formation is a two-step process. First, the cells need to be detached, induced by the cell culture flask's rotation and the subsequent fluid flow, as well as the presence of air bubbles. Once the cells are detached and in suspension, random positioning prevents sedimentation, allowing 3D aggregates to form. In a comparative shear stress experiment using defined fluid flow paradigms, transcriptional responses were triggered comparable to exposure of FTC-133 cells to the RPM. In summary, the RPM serves as a simulator of microgravity by randomizing the impact of Earth's gravity vector especially for suspension (i.e., detached) cells. Simultaneously, it simulates physiological shear forces on the adherent cell layer. The RPM thus offers a unique combination of environmental conditions for in vitro cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Cortés-Sánchez
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (D.M.); (V.S.); (S.M.); (D.G.)
| | - Daniela Melnik
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (D.M.); (V.S.); (S.M.); (D.G.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Viviann Sandt
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (D.M.); (V.S.); (S.M.); (D.G.)
| | - Stefan Kahlert
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany;
| | - Shannon Marchal
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (D.M.); (V.S.); (S.M.); (D.G.)
| | - Ian R. D. Johnson
- Research in Space Environments Group, UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
| | - Marco Calvaruso
- Institute of Bioimaging and Molecular Physiology, National Research Council (IBFM-CNR), 90015 Cefalù, Italy;
| | - Christian Liemersdorf
- Department of Gravitational Biology, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center, 51147 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Simon L. Wuest
- Institute of Medical Engineering, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 6052 Hergiswil, Switzerland;
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (D.M.); (V.S.); (S.M.); (D.G.)
- 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 C, Denmark
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (J.L.C.-S.); (D.M.); (V.S.); (S.M.); (D.G.)
- Research Group “Magdeburger Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forschung unter Raumfahrt- und Schwerelosigkeitsbedingungen” (MARS), Otto-von-Guericke University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany
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Li J, Xue C, Yang H, Zhang J, Li G, Li J, Kuang F, Chen J, Zhang S, Gao F, Kou Z, Zhang X, Dong L. Simulated weightlessness induces hippocampal insulin resistance and cognitive impairment. Life Sci 2023; 333:122112. [PMID: 37758017 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence highlights the potential consequences of long-term spaceflight, including gray matter volume reduction and cognitive dysfunction with subclinical manifestations of diabetes mellitus among astronauts, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we found that long-term simulated weightlessness induced hippocampal insulin resistance and subsequent neuronal damage and cognitive impairment in rats. Rats subjected to 4-week tail suspension exhibited peripheral insulin resistance, evidenced by increased fasting blood glucose and abnormal glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance, alongside reduced spontaneous activity and impaired recognition memory. In addition, 4 weeks of simulated weightlessness induced neuronal apoptosis and degeneration in the hippocampus, as evidenced by increased TUNEL and Fluoro-Jade B staining-positive neurons. Mechanistically, insulin-stimulated hippocampal Akt phosphorylation was decreased, while PTEN, the negative regulator of insulin signaling, was increased in the hippocampus in tail-suspended rats. Interestingly, treatment with berberine, an insulin sensitizer, partly reversed the above-mentioned effects induced by simulated weightlessness. These data suggest that long-term simulated weightlessness induces cognitive impairment as well as neuronal apoptosis and neural degeneration, partially through hippocampal insulin resistance via PTEN up-regulation. Berberine treatment attenuates hippocampal insulin resistance and improves cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Li
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China; Department of Psychology, Air Force Hospital, Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Caiyan Xue
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongyan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guohua Li
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jijun Li
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fang Kuang
- Department of Neurobiology, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhenzhen Kou
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology & K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Xing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Ling Dong
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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Green MJ, Murray EJ, Williams P, Ghaemmaghami AM, Aylott JW, Williams PM. Modelled-Microgravity Reduces Virulence Factor Production in Staphylococcus aureus through Downregulation of agr-Dependent Quorum Sensing. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15997. [PMID: 37958979 PMCID: PMC10648752 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial contamination during space missions is problematic for human health and damages filters and other vital support systems. Staphylococcus aureus is both a human commensal and an opportunistic pathogen that colonizes human tissues and causes acute and chronic infections. Virulence and colonization factors are positively and negatively regulated, respectively, by bacterial cell-to-cell communication (quorum sensing) via the agr (accessory gene regulator) system. When cultured under low-shear modelled microgravity conditions (LSMMG), S. aureus has been reported to maintain a colonization rather than a pathogenic phenotype. Here, we show that the modulation of agr expression via reduced production of autoinducing peptide (AIP) signal molecules was responsible for this behavior. In an LSMMG environment, the S. aureus strains JE2 (methicillin-resistant) and SH1000 (methicillin-sensitive) both exhibited reduced cytotoxicity towards the human leukemia monocytic cell line (THP-1) and increased fibronectin binding. Using S. aureus agrP3::lux reporter gene fusions and mass spectrometry to quantify the AIP concentrations, the activation of agr, which depends on the binding of AIP to the transcriptional regulator AgrC, was delayed in the strains with an intact autoinducible agr system. This was because AIP production was reduced under these growth conditions compared with the ground controls. Under LSMMG, S. aureus agrP3::lux reporter strains that cannot produce endogenous AIPs still responded to exogenous AIPs. Provision of exogenous AIPs to S. aureus USA300 during microgravity culture restored the cytotoxicity of culture supernatants for the THP-1 cells. These data suggest that microgravity does not affect AgrC-AIP interactions but more likely the generation of AIPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macauley J. Green
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (M.J.G.)
| | - Ewan J. Murray
- Biodiscovery Institute and School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK (P.W.)
| | - Paul Williams
- Biodiscovery Institute and School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK (P.W.)
| | - Amir M. Ghaemmaghami
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Jonathan W. Aylott
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (M.J.G.)
| | - Philip M. Williams
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (M.J.G.)
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Trappe TA, Tesch P, Alkner B, Trappe S. Microgravity-induced skeletal muscle atrophy in women and men: implications for long-duration spaceflights to the Moon and Mars. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 135:1115-1119. [PMID: 37795533 PMCID: PMC10979826 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00412.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The inclusion of women on spaceflights has historically been limited. Recently, the first woman who will travel to the Moon was selected, and more women are participating in long-duration spaceflights. However, physiological data from real and simulated microgravity exposure are limited in women. This investigation studied women (n = 8, 34 ± 1 yr) and men (n = 9, 32 ± 1 yr) who underwent 2 (women) or 3 (men) mo of simulated microgravity (6° head-down tilt bed rest). Quadriceps and triceps surae muscle volumes were assessed via MRI before bed rest, bed rest day 29 (BR29, women and men), bed rest day 57 (BR57, women), and bed rest day 89 (BR89, men). Volume of both muscle groups decreased (P < 0.05) in women and men at all bed rest timepoints. Quadriceps muscle volume loss in women was greater than men at 1 mo (BR29: -17% vs. -10%, P < 0.05) and this 1-mo loss for women was similar to men at 3 mo (BR89: -18%, P > 0.05). In addition, the loss in women at 2 mo (BR57: -21%) exceeded men at 3 mo (P < 0.05). For the triceps surae, there was a trend for greater muscle volume loss in women compared with men at 1 mo (BR29: -18% vs. -16%, P = 0.08), and loss in women at 2 mo was similar to men at 3 mo (BR57: -29%, BR89: -29%, P > 0.05). The collective evidence suggests that women experience greater lower limb muscle atrophy than men at least through the first 4 mo of microgravity exposure. More sex-specific microgravity studies are needed to help protect the health of women traveling on long-duration orbital and interplanetary spaceflights.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study adds to the limited evidence regarding sex-specific responses to real or simulated microgravity exposure, which collectively suggests a sex-specific muscle atrophy profile, with women losing more than men at least through the first 4 mo of weightlessness. Considering the increase in women being selected for space missions, including the first women to travel to the Moon, more physiological data on women in response to microgravity are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd A Trappe
- Human Performance Laboratory, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, United States
| | - Per Tesch
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Björn Alkner
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Scott Trappe
- Human Performance Laboratory, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, United States
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Hu Y, Tian H, Chen W, Liu Y, Cao Y, Pei H, Ming C, Shan C, Chen X, Dai Z, Yang S, Shao Z, Lan S, Liu Y, Tong W. The Critical Role of The Piezo1/β-catenin/ATF4 Axis on The Stemness of Gli1 + BMSCs During Simulated Microgravity-Induced Bone Loss. Adv Sci (Weinh) 2023; 10:e2303375. [PMID: 37759400 PMCID: PMC10646271 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Disuse osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass caused by abnormal mechanical stimulation of bone. Piezo1 is a major mechanosensitive ion channel in bone homeostasis. However, whether intervening in the action of Piezo1 can rescue disuse osteoporosis remains unresolved. In this study, a commonly-used hindlimb-unloading model is employed to simulate microgravity. By single-cell RNA sequencing, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are the most downregulated cell cluster, and coincidentally, Piezo1 expression is mostly enriched in those cells, and is substantially downregulated by unloading. Importantly, activation of Piezo1 by systemically-introducing yoda1 mimics the effects of mechanical stimulation and thus ameliorates bone loss under simulated microgravity. Mechanistically, Piezo1 activation promotes the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of Gli1+ BMSCs by activating the β-catenin and its target gene activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). Inhibiting β-catenin expression substantially attenuates the effect of yoda1 on bone loss, possibly due to inhibited proliferation and osteogenic differentiation capability of Gli1+ BMSCs mediated by ATF4. Lastly, Piezo1 activation also slightly alleviates the osteoporosis of OVX and aged mice. In conclusion, impaired function of Piezo1 in BMSCs leads to insufficient bone formation especially caused by abnormal mechanical stimuli, and is thus a potential therapeutic target for osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
| | - Hongtao Tian
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of OrthopedicsThe Third Hospital of Hebei Medical UniversityShi JiazhuangHebei050051China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Intelligent Orthopedic EquipmentThe Third Hospital of Hebei Medical UniversityShi JiazhuangHebei050051China
| | - Yunlu Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430014China
| | - Yulin Cao
- Department of OrthopedicsWuhan Orthopedic Hospital, Wuhan Puai HospitalWuhanHubei430033China
| | - Hongxin Pei
- Department of Orthopedics, Henan Provincial People's HospitalZhengzhou University People's HospitalZhengzhouHenan450003China
| | - Chaochang Ming
- Department of Orthopedics, Henan Provincial People's HospitalZhengzhou University People's HospitalZhengzhouHenan450003China
| | - Cunqing Shan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Eighth People’s HospitalJiangsu UniversityShanghai200235China
| | - Xihui Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The Eighth People’s HospitalJiangsu UniversityShanghai200235China
| | - Zhipeng Dai
- Department of Orthopedics, Henan Provincial People's HospitalZhengzhou University People's HospitalZhengzhouHenan450003China
| | - Shuhua Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
| | - Shenghui Lan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Eighth People’s HospitalJiangsu UniversityShanghai200235China
- Department of Orthopedics, Xuhui Branch of The Sixth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200233China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
| | - Wei Tong
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanHubei430022China
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Kovalski E, Salazar L, Levin D, Kamine TH. A 3D-Printed Portable Sterilizer to Be Used During Surgical Procedures in Spaceflight. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2023; 94:857-860. [PMID: 37853595 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.6294.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: During spaceflight, it is important to consider the mechanisms by which surgeries and medical procedures can be safely and efficiently conducted. Instruments used to carry out these processes need to be sterilized. Thus, we have designed and tested a three-dimensional-printed (3D-printed) portable sterilizer that implements far ultraviolet-C (Far UV-C) light radiation to disinfect bacteria and microorganisms from surgical instruments.METHODS: The sterilizer was 3D-printed with polylactic acid filament. Effectiveness was assessed through three trials at differing times of sterilization and compared against a control group of no sterilization and against Clorox wipes. Cultures were incubated on agar dishes and counted with ImageJ.RESULTS: Increasing time under Far UV-C light radiation increased the percentage of sterilization up to 100% at 10 min. The 3D-printed sterilizer was significantly better than Clorox wipes and control.DISCUSSION: As sterilization will be necessary for surgical procedures in microgravity and upmass is a significant concern, we have successfully demonstrated a 3D-printable portable sterilizer for surgical instruments that achieves 100% success in using Far UV-C light to disinfect its surface of bacteria with a 10-min sterilizing time. Further research is necessary to test this design in microgravity and with differently sized and shaped instruments.Kovalski E, Salazar L, Levin D, Kamine TH. A 3D-printed portable sterilizer to be used during surgical procedures in spaceflight. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(11):857-860.
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Miao LW, Liu TZ, Sun YH, Cai N, Xuan YY, Wei Z, Cui BB, Jing LL, Ma HP, Xian CJ, Wang JF, Gao YH, Chen KM. Simulated microgravity-induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts can be prevented by protection of primary cilia. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:2692-2709. [PMID: 37796139 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been considered to be closely related to spaceflight-induced bone loss; however, mechanism is elusive and there are no effective countermeasures. Using cultured rat calvarial osteoblasts exposed to microgravity simulated by a random positioning machine, this study addressed the hypotheses that microgravity-induced shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress and that primary cilium protection prevents oxidative stress and osteogenesis loss. Microgravity was found to induce oxidative stress (as represented by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde production, and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes), which was perfectly replicated in osteoblasts growing in NG with abrogated primary cilia (created by transfection of an interfering RNA), suggesting the possibility that shortening of primary cilia leads to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress was accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction (represented by increased mitochondrial ROS and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential) and intracellular Ca2+ overload, and the latter was found to be caused by increased activity of Ca2+ channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), as also evidenced by TRPV4 agonist GSK1016790A-elicited Ca2+ influx. Supplementation of HC-067047, a specific antagonist of TRPV4, attenuated microgravity-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss. Although TRPV4 was found localized in primary cilia and expressed at low levels in NG, microgravity-induced shortening of primary cilia led to increased TRPV4 levels and Ca2+ influx. When primary cilia were protected by miR-129-3p overexpression or supplementation with a natural flavonoid moslosooflavone, microgravity-induced increased TRPV4 expression, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis loss were all prevented. Our data revealed a new mechanism that primary cilia function as a controller for TRPV4 expression. Microgravity-induced injury on primary cilia leads to increased expression and overactive channel of TRPV4, causing intracellular Ca2+ overload and oxidative stress, and primary cilium protection could be an effective countermeasure against microgravity-induced oxidative stress and loss of osteogenic potential of osteoblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Wei Miao
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tian-Zhen Liu
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yue-Hong Sun
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Nan Cai
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ying-Ying Xuan
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhenlong Wei
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Bing-Bing Cui
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lin-Lin Jing
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hui-Ping Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Cory J Xian
- UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ju-Fang Wang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yu-Hai Gao
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ke-Ming Chen
- Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, Fundamental Medical Science Research Laboratories, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, People's Liberation Army of China, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Gene Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, China
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White NJ, Wenthe A. Managing Hemostasis in Space. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:2079-2087. [PMID: 37795614 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.318783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Human space travel requires exposure to weightlessness, ionizing radiation, isolation, and austerity. A recent report of internal jugular vein thrombosis in astronauts in low Earth orbit confirms that these exposures also affect vascular biology to influence diseases of thrombosis and hemostasis. This brief review summarizes the known influences of space travel on inflammation, blood coagulation, and the cardiovascular system and conceptualizes how they might combine to affect thrombosis and hemostasis. In the event of a major thrombotic or bleeding emergency, it is anticipated that the unique physiological influences of the space environment and logistical limitations of providing medical care in space would require a response that is unique from our current experience. We also look towards the future to discuss lessons learned from our current experiences on Earth and in space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J White
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle (N.J.W.)
- University of Washington Resuscitation Engineering Science Unit (RESCU) (N.J.W., A.W.)
| | - Andrew Wenthe
- University of Washington Resuscitation Engineering Science Unit (RESCU) (N.J.W., A.W.)
- U.S. Navy, Active Duty, Special Operations Combat Medic-SOCM (A.W.)
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Lerner D, Pohlen M, Wang A, Walter J, Cairnie M, Gifford S. X-Ray Imaging in the Simulated Microgravity Environment of Parabolic Flight. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2023; 94:786-791. [PMID: 37726905 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.6286.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The advancement of human spaceflight has made urgent the need to develop medical imaging technology to ensure a high level of in-flight care. To date, only ultrasound has been used in spaceflight. Radiography has multiple advantages over ultrasound, including lower operator dependence, more rapid acquisition, typically higher spatial resolution, and characterization of tissue with acoustic impedance precluding ultrasound. This proof-of-concept work demonstrates for the first time the feasibility of performing human radiographs in microgravity.METHODS: Radiographs of a phantom and human subject's hand, knee, chest, cervical spine, and pelvis were obtained aboard a parabolic flight in microgravity and simulated lunar gravity with various subject and operator positions. Control radiographs were acquired with the same system on the ground. These radiographs were performed with a Food and Drug Administration-approved ultra-portable, wireless, battery-powered, digital x-ray system.RESULTS: The radiographs of the phantom acquired in reduced gravity were qualitatively and quantitatively compared to the ground controls and found to exhibit similar diagnostic adequacy. There was no statistically significant difference in contrast resolution or spatial resolution with a spatial resolution across all imaging environments up to the Nyquist frequency of 3.6 line-pairs/mm and an average contrast-to-noise ratio of 2.44.DISCUSSION: As mass, power, and volume limitations lessen over the coming decades and the miniaturization of imaging equipment continues, in-flight implementation of nonsonographic modalities will become practical. Given the demonstrated ease of use and satisfactory image quality, portable radiography is ready to be the new frontier of space medical imaging.Lerner D, Pohlen M, Wang A, Walter J, Cairnie M, Gifford S. X-ray imaging in the simulated microgravity environment of parabolic flight. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(10):786-791.
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Abstract
Spaceflight has always been met with awe by the general public and may also have strong implications for medical training for future physicians, regardless of specialty or practice. Within the near future, the commercialization of spaceflight will lead to an unprecedented surge in travelers to space. With this increase, the understanding of space medicine and potential physiological risks of microgravity will only become more important for doctors to understand. Historically, teaching education on how the body responds to various different environments and environmental changes has been a longstanding core to medical education. Thus, education about the physiological, pathologic, and histologic changes to weightlessness over prolonged periods of time will likely provide additional insights to space medicine, as well as how medicine can be practiced here on Earth. The addition of space medicine to the medical curriculum will likely not only benefit future space medicine physicians, but also likely benefit all physicians and human health on Earth. In this manuscript, we discuss the various risks that astronauts undergo, as well as current space medicine education initiatives on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Waisberg
- University College Dublin School of Medicine, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joshua Ong
- Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MichiganUSA
| | - Mouayad Masalkhi
- University College Dublin School of Medicine, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrew G Lee
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TexasUSA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TexasUSA
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TexasUSA
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New YorkUSA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TexasUSA
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TexasUSA
- Texas A&M College of Medicine, Bryan, TexasUSA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IowaUSA
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