Extended periods in space take a toll on the human body, and new research indicates that heart tissues also suffer significantly from the effects of microgravity. A recent experiment led by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, with support from NASA, revealed that human bioengineered heart tissue exposed to microgravity for 30 days demonstrated weakened contractility and increased arrhythmias.
The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, involved sending 48 samples of heart tissue to the International Space Station (ISS). The findings highlight the necessity for enhanced measures to ensure cardiovascular health during long-duration space missions, particularly as humanity sets its sights on future explorations to the Moon and Mars.
This groundbreaking experiment utilized human-induced pluripotent stem cells to create a “heart-on-a-chip” model. The tissues were designed to mimic the adult human heart environment and were monitored for rhythmic contractions while aboard the ISS. The results indicated significant degradation in the heart tissues, with increased signs of age-related heart conditions, including irregular heartbeats and muscle atrophy.
With the understanding that these microgravity effects on heart tissues could impact astronaut health during extended missions, further research is being conducted. The team is currently investigating potential drugs to protect heart muscles from the detrimental effects of microgravity and studying the impact of space radiation on cardiovascular health. This research not only contributes to our knowledge of human health in space but may also inform treatments for heart disease on Earth.
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