Space accelerates the aging of blood cells

Interestingly, similar conclusions have already been hinted at in the famous “NASA Twin Study”, when one astronaut spent almost a year in orbit, while his twin brother remained on Earth. Then scientists noticed changes in genes and the immune system. But for the first time, it was recorded exactly how the blood cells themselves suffer.

To look inside this process, the researchers used miniature bioreactors and artificial intelligence systems. These smart devices made it possible to observe how cells react to zero gravity conditions right in space.

It turned out that in space, cells begin to work too actively, quickly expend their strength and no longer know how to rest. This deprives them of the ability to recover. Other signs of aging have appeared: DNA damage, shortened tips of chromosomes, malfunctions in the work of mitochondria, the energy stations of the cell. All this weakens the immune system and can increase the risk of diseases.

There is also a ray of hope. When the aged cells were returned to a healthy environment, some of the damage was reversed. This means that cells can be rejuvenated under the right conditions.

Scientists are confident that these results are important not only for astronauts. Understanding exactly how stress accelerates cell aging will help develop methods to combat age-related diseases and even cancer here on Earth.

Space has once again proved that it can accelerate science: in order to understand how to maintain health in orbit, researchers have to delve deeper into the mysteries of human aging.