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Changes in the microflora of man during long-term confinement
V M Shilov1, N N Lizko, O K Borisova
1Institute of Biomedical Problems, USSR Ministry of Public Health, Moscow, USSR.
Life Sciences and Space Research
|January 1, 1971
Summary
Extended space missions alter human gut microflora, reducing diversity and increasing pathogenic bacteria like Clostridium perfringens and Staphylococcus. This simplification may impact immune resistance during long-duration spaceflight.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Space Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Human microflora, particularly intestinal flora, is crucial for natural resistance to infection.
- Extended space missions pose risks of altering this delicate microbial balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in human intestinal microflora during a year-long confinement.
- To assess the impact of long-term enclosure on bacterial composition and pathogenic potential.
Main Methods:
- Microbiological analysis of fecal samples from 27 healthy male subjects over one year.
- Isolation and characterization of Clostridium perfringens and Staphylococcus strains.
- Phage-typing, toxicity, and virulence assays on isolated staphylococci.
Main Results:
- Predominance of spore-less anaerobic bacteria (90%) in fecal microflora.
- Significant reduction and elimination of microbial groups, leading to simplified intestinal flora.
- Increased isolation of toxicogenic Clostridium perfringens strains.
- Isolation of coagulase-positive staphylococci with enhanced pathogenic properties and increased virulence in mice.
Conclusions:
- Long-term enclosure induces significant shifts in intestinal microflora composition.
- The observed changes, including increased pathogenicity of bacteria, may have implications for immune responses and health during space missions.