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The effects of real and simulated microgravity on cellular mitochondrial function
Hong Phuong Nguyen1,2, Phuong Hoa Tran1,2, Kyu-Sung Kim1,3
1Inha Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, 22332, Korea.
NPJ Microgravity
|November 9, 2021
Summary
Microgravity causes oxidative stress in astronauts by damaging mitochondria, leading to health problems. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing countermeasures for long space missions.
Area of Science:
- Space biology
- Mitochondrial biology
- Space medicine
Background:
- Astronauts experience health issues like bone loss and muscle atrophy after space missions.
- These issues are linked to oxidative stress from microgravity.
- Mitochondria produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), but microgravity's effect on this process is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how microgravity induces mitochondrial oxidative damage.
- To evaluate gene and protein expression and metabolic pathways involved.
- To review the effects of antioxidants against microgravity-induced oxidative stress.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on microgravity and mitochondrial function.
- Analysis of gene and protein expression data related to oxidative stress.
- Evaluation of metabolic pathways affected by microgravity.
Main Results:
- Microgravity-induced ROS reduce mitochondrial volume by impairing the respiratory chain and metabolic pathways.
- Premature electron leakage in the electron transport chain is a likely source of ROS.
- An imbalance between ROS production and antioxidant defenses causes mitochondrial dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Microgravity significantly impacts mitochondrial function, contributing to astronaut health problems.
- Further research is needed to develop therapeutic drugs for mitigating microgravity-induced mitochondrial damage.
- Understanding these mechanisms is vital for ensuring astronaut health during extended space missions.
