Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31440: Why Astronauts Age Faster in Space—and What We Can Learn From It

Have you ever wondered why astronauts often return from space with signs of accelerated aging? Scientists led by Dr. Makoto Kuroo at Jichi Medical University sought to uncover the underlying mechanisms behind this phenomenon. Their study, conducted across multiple ISS expeditions, focused on how microgravity affects aging processes.

Using genetically modified mice, the team observed physiological changes typically associated with aging—like muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and cardiovascular decline—but occurring much faster in space. One key finding involved a protein called Klotho, which is associated with aging regulation on Earth. Mice in microgravity showed altered Klotho expression, suggesting a possible link to space-induced aging.

The study's implications stretch beyond astronaut health. By mimicking rapid aging, space provides a unique model to study diseases like osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and cardiovascular disorders. These insights could help scientists develop new therapies to slow or reverse aging effects, both in space and on Earth.

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