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Combined Exposure to Simulated Microgravity and Acute or Chronic Radiation Reduces Neuronal Network Integrity and
Giuseppe Pani1,2,3, Mieke Verslegers1, Roel Quintens1
1Radiobiology Unit, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK•CEN, Mol, Belgium.
Plos One
|May 21, 2016
Summary
Space radiation and microgravity synergistically harm neuronal health. Combined exposure significantly impacts neuron morphology and survival, highlighting risks for astronaut cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Space Biology
- Radiation Biology
Background:
- Astronauts face space radiation and microgravity.
- Previous studies often examined these factors separately.
- Understanding combined effects is crucial for astronaut health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the combined impact of radiation and simulated microgravity on neuronal morphology and survival.
- To investigate effects using in vitro mouse neuron cultures.
- To analyze gene expression changes associated with space conditions.
Main Methods:
- Exposed mouse mature neuron cultures to simulated microgravity.
- Administered acute (X-rays) or chronic (Californium-252) ionizing radiation.
- Analyzed neuronal morphology, survival, and gene expression.
- Evaluated recovery after simulated microgravity removal.
Main Results:
- Low-dose X-rays delayed neurite outgrowth and reduced soma size.
- High-dose X-rays impaired neuronal survival.
- Microgravity exacerbated radiation effects on morphology and survival.
- Gene expression analysis revealed modulation of neurite extension and cell survival pathways.
Conclusions:
- Simulated space conditions, especially combined radiation and microgravity, synergistically impair neuronal network integrity and cell survival.
- These findings emphasize the need to study the central nervous system and cognition in astronauts.
- Results aid in evaluating astronaut health risks during and after space missions.
