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Published on: October 27, 2020
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Rodent retinal microcirculation and visual electrophysiology following simulated microgravity
Xufeng Dai1, Siming Ye2, Xiaoping Chen3
1School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, The Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
Experimental Eye Research
|March 31, 2020
Summary
Simulated microgravity in mice caused temporary changes in retinal microcirculation and visual function. These effects were reversible, showing the retina can adapt to spaceflight conditions without permanent damage.
Area of Science:
- Space Physiology
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Space exploration necessitates understanding how microgravity affects human physiology.
- The cephalad fluid shift in microgravity can impact visual function and ocular structures.
- Rodent models are crucial for studying these physiological changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of simulated microgravity on retinal microcirculation and visual electrophysiology in mice.
- To assess the reversibility of these changes and potential for adaptation.
- To inform future research on spaceflight-induced visual impairments.
Main Methods:
- Mice underwent tail suspension at a 30° head-down tilt to simulate cephalad fluid shift.
- Retinal microcirculation was assessed morphologically and via fluorescence retention.
- Optical coherence tomography evaluated optic nerve head morphology.
- Scotopic electroretinograms and flash visual evoked potentials measured visual electrophysiology.
- Control groups maintained normal position with tether attachment.
Main Results:
- Short-term (15-day) tail suspension induced retinal microvascular dilation, tortuosity, and optic nerve head enlargement.
- Visual electrophysiology showed reduced oscillatory potentials and delayed N1 peak time.
- Long-term (30-day) suspension led to recovery of microcirculation and optic nerve head morphology.
- Retinal structure, rhodopsin/cone-opsin expression, and apoptotic cells remained unchanged.
- Electrophysiological function largely recovered after 30 days.
Conclusions:
- Simulated microgravity causes transient retinal microvascular and electrophysiological changes in mice.
- These changes are reversible, indicating adaptive capacity of the rodent retina.
- The model provides insights into spaceflight-induced visual system alterations and supports further research.
