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Teratogenic effects of gravitational changes
P J Duke1, D Montufar-Solis, E Daane
1University of Texas-Houston, Department of Orthodontics 77225, USA.
Advances in Space Research : the Official Journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Altered gravity (delta g) acts as a teratogen, impacting development. Studies show gravitational changes affect skeletal development and growth at the cellular level in vivo and in vitro.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Space Biology
- Teratology
Background:
- Altered gravity (delta g) is an environmental factor influencing biological development.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for space exploration and human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of altered gravity on skeletal development.
- To determine if altered gravity acts as a teratogen.
Main Methods:
- Utilized centrifugation and spaceflight to expose developing organisms (rats and mice) to altered gravity.
- Examined skeletal development in vitro (limb buds) and in vivo (palates, growth plates, long bones).
Main Results:
- Observed suppressed morphogenesis in limb buds and advanced palate fusion stages.
- Noted smaller crown rump lengths, decreased pregnancies, altered growth plate differentiation, and reduced long bone length.
- Demonstrated that delta g impacts development at the cellular level.
Conclusions:
- Altered gravity (delta g) demonstrably affects skeletal development.
- Delta g functions as a teratogen, influencing development in vivo and in vitro.
- The cellular level is a key site of action for gravitational effects on development.