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In Vitro Growth of Mouse Preantral Follicles Under Simulated Microgravity
Published on: December 17, 2017
Bone cell survival in microgravity: evidence that modeled microgravity increases osteoblast sensitivity to apoptogens
M A Bucaro1, J Fertala, C S Adams
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|January 13, 2005
Summary
Simulated microgravity disrupts osteoblast mitochondrial function, increasing cell death sensitivity. Alginate carriers in the high aspect ratio vessel (HARV) provide a robust system for studying these effects.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Space Biology
Background:
- Osteoporosis is a significant health concern, particularly in microgravity environments.
- Understanding osteoblast apoptosis is crucial for mitigating bone loss during spaceflight.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of simulated microgravity on osteoblast apoptosis.
- To assess the efficacy of alginate encapsulation as a cell carrier system in microgravity.
- To identify molecular mechanisms underlying microgravity-induced osteoblast apoptosis.
Main Methods:
- MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells cultured in alginate carriers within a high aspect ratio vessel (HARV) to simulate microgravity.
- Gene expression analysis to assess osteoblast phenotype.
- Mitochondrial membrane potential, Bcl-2 and Akt protein levels, and cellular redox status were measured.
- Apoptotic sensitivity was evaluated using a staurosporine challenge assay.
Main Results:
- Simulated microgravity led to a loss of mature osteoblast phenotype and disturbed cellular redox status.
- Reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and lower levels of antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2, Akt) were observed.
- Cells exposed to simulated microgravity showed increased cell death upon staurosporine challenge.
- Alginate carriers proved more robust than surface-seeded carriers, protecting cells from mechanical stress.
Conclusions:
- Vector-averaged gravity disrupts mitochondrial function, sensitizing osteoblasts to apoptosis.
- The alginate carrier system in the HARV is a superior method for studying microgravity effects on cells.
- Findings provide insights into bone loss mechanisms in space and potential countermeasures.
