Mitochondria as key targets underlying hypomagnetic field-induced biological effects

Area of Science:

• Space biology
• Environmental health
• Mitochondrial research

Background:

• Human space exploration involves prolonged exposure to hypomagnetic fields (HMF), significantly weaker than Earth's geomagnetic field (GMF).
• Evidence indicates HMF exposure negatively affects animal systems, including nervous, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal functions.
• Understanding HMF's biological impact is critical for astronaut health during long-duration missions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the multi-level impacts of HMF exposure on mitochondrial quality control and function.
• To identify mitochondria as direct and sensitive targets of HMF.
• To explore potential HMF-regulated signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review focusing on HMF effects on biological systems.
• Analysis of studies investigating mitochondrial responses to reduced magnetic fields.
• Examination of proposed molecular mechanisms, including the role of iron-sulfur clusters.

Main Results:

• Mitochondria are proposed as direct and sensitive targets of HMF exposure.
• HMF exposure impacts mitochondrial quality control and overall function.
• Iron-sulfur clusters within mitochondria may play a pivotal role in HMF's effects.

Conclusions:

• Mitochondria are central to understanding the health risks associated with HMF exposure during spaceflight.
• Identifying HMF-regulated pathways is crucial for developing countermeasures.
• This review provides a foundation for mitigating HMF-induced risks for astronauts.