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Cosmic chronometers: Is spaceflight a catalyst for biological ageing?
Manuela Campisi1, Luana Cannella1, Sofia Pavanello1
1Occupational Medicine, Department of Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
Ageing Research Reviews
|February 12, 2024
Summary
Spaceflight accelerates biological aging, impacting genomic stability and inflammation. Countermeasures like diet and exercise show promise in mitigating these age-related health risks for astronauts.
Area of Science:
- Space Medicine
- Gerontology
- Astrobiology
Background:
- Astronauts returning from space missions often display health issues similar to age-related conditions.
- This suggests that spaceflight may accelerate biological aging and increase the risk of age-related diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the impact of the space exposome on the twelve hallmarks of aging.
- To decipher how space environments and terrestrial analogs influence aging hallmarks.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed.
- 189 studies were identified, with 60 meeting the screening criteria for analysis.
Main Results:
- Spaceflight induces genomic instability, chronic inflammation, and altered nutrient sensing (increased IGF-1).
- Microbiome imbalances and unique telomere dynamics (lengthening in-flight, shortening post-flight) were observed.
- Despite a pro-aging trend, some protective mechanisms were identified.
Conclusions:
- Spaceflight's effect on aging is complex and multifaceted, challenging existing notions.
- Multidisciplinary research and potential countermeasures (diet, exercise, supplements) are crucial for future space exploration.
- Understanding spaceflight-induced aging is vital for astronaut health and long-duration missions.
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