New research in The FASEB Journal suggests that gravitational unloading significantly impairs the function of endothelial cells, as evidenced by gene expression studies conducted in space
As nations strive to put humans farther into space for longer periods of time, the real loser in this new space race could be the astronauts themselves. That’s because experiments conducted on the International Space Station involving cells that line the inner surfaces of blood vessels (endothelial cells) show that microgravity accelerates cardiovascular disease and the biological aging of these cells. These findings are presented in a new research report published in November 2013 issue of The FASEB Journal.
“Understanding the cellular and molecular events of senescence might help in finding preventive measures that are useful to improve the quality of life of millions of people,” said Silvia Bradamante, a researcher involved in the work from the CNR-ISTM, Institute of Molecular Science and Technologies in Milan, Italy. “Our study further supports the role of oxidative stress in accelerating aging and disease.”
In this report, Bradamante and colleagues examined endothelial cells in real microgravity aboard the International Space Station and conducted deep gene expression and protein analysis on the cells. They compared space-flown endothelial cells to endothelial cells cultured under normal gravity, looking for differences in gene expression and/or in the profile of secreted proteins. Space-flown cells differentially expressed more than 1,000 genes and secreted high amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Ultimately, this induced significant oxidative stress, causing inflammation among endothelial cells, which in turn, led to atherosclerosis and cell senescence (biological aging).
“As we plan to send people deeper into space than ever before, and for longer flights, we’ve got to make sure that they remain in best health possible,” said Gerald Weissmann, M.D., Editor-in-Chief of The FASEB Journal. “We’ve evolved to rely on gravity to regulate our biology, and without it, our tissues become confused. Worst of all: they age faster!”
Go deeper with Bing News on:
Microgravity accelerates biological aging
- Pregnancy Can Speed up Biological Aging in Women, According to a New Study
Still, in some instances, the recovery might not be complete, “leading to residual biological aging with each additional pregnancy,” says Ryan. Jose Luis Pelaez Inc//Getty Images “It isn’t ...
- Getting pregnant adds months to a woman’s biological age, scientists reveal
Often regarded as a time of wonder and anticipation, pregnancy unveils many physical and emotional changes for expecting people. From the fluttering kicks of new life to the inevitable morning ...
- On Aging
April 24, 2024 • The new rules mean 4 out of 5 nursing homes will need more aides and nurses. Unions hailed the change, but advocates say it's not enough care, while nursing home owners say it's ...
- Pregnancy can Make You Age Faster
Pregnancy accelerates biological aging in young women Menopause and maternal health implications remain uncertain Urgent need for comprehensive support systems for new mothers Pregnancy ...
- Sign of Aging Reversed by Simple Exercise
Scientists have identified a new sign of biological aging that may be reversible through simple exercise. Most of us see aging as an inevitable process of life, but some scientists are beginning ...
Go deeper with Google Headlines on:
Microgravity accelerates biological aging
[google_news title=”” keyword=”Microgravity accelerates biological aging” num_posts=”5″ blurb_length=”0″ show_thumb=”left”]
Go deeper with Bing News on:
Biological aging
- Star Scientist’s Claim of ‘Reverse Aging’ Draws Hail of Criticism
He has parlayed his research into hundreds of millions of dollars of investment in various companies, more than 50 patents and prominence as a longevity influencer.Along the way, his claims—especially ...
- Does reproduction influence epigenetic aging in younger women?
A recent Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study investigated the association between reproduction and biological aging based on epigenetic clocks. From the 8th to the 19th century, ...
- If You Were Born After 1965, Your Cells Might Be Aging Faster
Research suggests that accelerated aging is linked to higher rates of early-onset cancers. Longevity researchers say they want to slow biological aging to prevent chronic diseases, like cancers.
- Anti-aging guru Bryan Johnson shares unique ingredient he uses daily that helps him on his quest to live forever
There’s this assumption that if the food is in our supermarkets that somehow it’s gone through some process making sure it’s safe. That’s not true.” ...
- A cheap drug may slow down aging. A study will determine if it works
Studies suggest people who take metformin for diabetes may be at lower risk for cancer, heart disease and dementia. Now researchers aim to test if it prevents age-related diseases in healthy people.
Go deeper with Google Headlines on:
Biological aging
[google_news title=”” keyword=”biological aging” num_posts=”5″ blurb_length=”0″ show_thumb=”left”]
