Space travel impacts body cell production, study says
Last updated on: 27 November,2020 05:25 pm
Space travel impacts body cell production, study says
(Web Desk) - Living in space affects cells at the genetic level, according to a study of roundworms. Analysis of nematode worm species, known as Caenorhabditis elegans, which were sent to the International Space Station has revealed “subtle changes” in close to 1,000 genes, with stronger effects seen among cells in the nervous system.
The researchers believe their findings could help understand why humans and other living organisms experience physical decline in space.
Timothy Etheridge, of the University of Exeter, said: “We looked at levels of every gene in the worms’ genome and identified a clear pattern of genetic change.
“These changes might help explain why the body reacts badly to space flight.
Astronauts can lose up to 40% of their muscle when they spend six months or longer in space.
Over the years, the extreme spaceflight environment of the space station has given scientists the opportunity to study the physiological changes in humans.
The worms, which are about 1mm in size, are known to share many of the biological characteristics as humans.
They are also affected by biological changes caused by living in space – which includes changes to muscle mass and the ability to use energy.
The study exposed worms to low gravity on the space station, and to high gravity in centrifuges.
Lead author Craig Willis, of the University of Exeter, said: “We have identified genes with roles in neuronal function and cellular metabolism that are affected by gravitational changes.