The Heart in Space: Effects of Microgravity on Different Cell Types and Their Functions in the Cardiovascular System

Space travel may have promising implications for innovative approaches in biomedical research. But there are potential challenges and health concerns associated with exposures from space travel that warrant the need for mechanistic studies to determine the effects on various organ systems including the cardiovascular system. Radiation exposure associated with space flight is known to adversely affect the heart and vascular system. However, less is known about the effects of microgravity on the cardiovascular system. Various functions of the cardiovascular system may be affected by microgravity. Studies have investigated changes in the cytoskeleton of various cell types in response to simulated microgravity. Other studies investigated the effect of microgravity on the permeability and migration of endothelial cells and myocardial atrophy associated with endothelial dysfunction. In addition, coagulation, vasoconstriction, blood volume, and cardiac dimensions were outcome measures of studies aimed at understanding the implications of microgravity on the cardiovascular system. This comprehensive review summarizes the effect of microgravity on various aspects of the cardiovascular system.