Futurity · Space

Gravity's Subtle Impact on the Human Genome in Space

Scientists have investigated how gravity influences the human genome, particularly in the context of outer space. A new study used simulated microgravity to understand these effects.

The human genome, a complex 2-meter DNA sequence packed within a tiny cell nucleus, has its organization and function linked to its structure. Deviations can cause diseases, but the physical principles governing its organization are not fully understood, including gravity's role.

Researchers developed a custom device to simulate microgravity on Earth, allowing them to isolate gravity's impact on human cells and observe genome function in a zero-gravity environment.

This method helps determine gravity's role on Earth and how the genome functions in space, where gravity is absent. The study aimed to understand how space travel might affect humans.

The experiment involved rotating cells in a way that simulated weightlessness, minimizing fluid flows that could interfere with measurements. This technique is similar to those used by astronauts.

After 24 hours, cells exposed to simulated microgravity showed an increase in cell nucleus volume, suggesting gravity normally diminishes it. Other aspects like the nuclear envelope's thickness remained unchanged.

The genome's organization and dynamics remained physiologically stable after 24 hours of simulated microgravity. The study found no DNA damage from microgravity itself, though it occurred with fluid flows.

While the genome appears robust to short-term microgravity, researchers noted that these subtle changes could amplify over longer durations in space, potentially affecting cell physiology and causing DNA damage.

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