Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32338: How Microgravity Transforms Digestion: A Journey into the Human Gut in Space
- Agnirva.com
- Aug 1, 2025
- 1 min read
Our bodies are evolutionary masterpieces, fine-tuned by gravity. But what happens to your stomach, intestines, and digestion when gravity disappears? This question was at the heart of the Splankh experiment, conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during Expeditions 37 through 44. Sponsored by ROSCOSMOS, this comprehensive investigation explored the structural and functional changes in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract under microgravity conditions.
Why does this matter? Simply put, space travel dramatically alters how blood flows, how muscles function, and how cells communicate. The GI tract is a complex system involving muscles, nerves, enzymes, and bacteria—all of which respond to gravity. Understanding these responses is critical for long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
The Splankh experiment used a mix of in-flight data collection and post-flight medical analysis to track changes in digestion, nutrient absorption, and the gut-brain connection. From tracking enzyme levels and gastrointestinal motility to understanding how microgravity affects gut microbiota, Splankh aimed to pinpoint vulnerabilities that could affect astronaut health and performance.
Findings suggested that microgravity can slow digestive motility, alter gut flora, and potentially increase the risk of gastrointestinal disorders. These insights are not only vital for astronaut care but may also inform treatments for digestive issues on Earth.
In essence, Splankh opened a new chapter in space medicine, highlighting the need to adapt our biology to thrive in the final frontier.
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