Physiological properties of cells under microgravity conditions

Abstract

Gravity has a profound influence on human physiology, including muscle wasting, decreased bone density, immune and cardiovascular functions, and endocrine disruption. These physiological changes represent major obstacles to long-term space missions. The mechanisms by which human physiology is disrupted in microgravity remain unknown, rendering numerous open questions regarding the adaptive changes that occur at the cellular and molecular level in response to microgravity. The use of ground-based facilities to simulate microgravity provides a better understanding of the effect of weightlessness on cells. This review will give recent insights into the impact of simulated microgravity on cells and how this technology may improve our understanding of the effects of space on human physiology and pathophysiology.