A new study published in the journal Cell Stem Cell reveals the devastating effects of microgravity and radiation on DNA in space. A team led by Catriona Jamieson, director of the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, monitored stem cells using a cell phone-sized device on the International Space Station.

Space Environment Aging Stem Cells

An examination of bone marrow stem cells taken from patients undergoing hip replacement surgery found that the cells in space age faster than those on Earth.

Jamieson notes that stem cells’ function decreases in space and their ability to regenerate is reduced. This is considered critical information for long-term space missions because it could have serious consequences for astronauts’ immune systems and overall health.

Previous research has shown that microgravity can reduce bone density, impair cognitive function, and lead to vision problems.

Researchers believe that the dark genome is behind this rapid aging process. This genome, formed thousands of years ago by the integration of retroviruses into DNA, makes up approximately 55 percent of human DNA. Jamieson emphasized that these DNA regions are activated in response to space stress, causing extreme stress and accelerated aging in cells.

But scientists aren’t just identifying the problem. Jamieson and his team have begun clinical trials for drugs that could slow the aging of stem cells. These studies have the potential to protect the health of astronauts and accelerate cancer and regenerative medicine research.

Furthermore, recent research has shown that stem cells can recover upon return to Earth, partially reversing the harmful effects of microgravity.