Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32574: Twin Astronauts and the Search for Space-Induced Heart Disease Clues

This groundbreaking study delves into how the rigors of spaceflight might accelerate processes linked to heart disease. The experiment, titled 'Metabolomic and Genomic Markers of Atherosclerosis as Related to Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Vascular Function in Twin Astronauts,' investigates the biochemistry of vascular health using identical twins—one who flew in space, and one who remained Earthbound. By examining changes in metabolites and gene expressions associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, the study seeks to understand how space travel could influence the early onset of atherosclerosis, a major cardiovascular disease.

Researchers monitored molecular markers that can predict damage or changes in blood vessels and tracked inflammatory responses. The metabolomic profile—the complete set of metabolites—revealed elevated stress markers and inflammation in the astronaut twin during and shortly after spaceflight. Interestingly, some genomic changes persisted post-mission, suggesting that space-induced cardiovascular stress could have lasting effects.

This research holds profound implications not only for astronaut health on long-duration missions but also for cardiovascular science on Earth. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to new ways to detect, prevent, or treat heart disease in the general population.

Join the Agnirva Space Internship Program

Get certified with over 100 hours of immersive, self-paced learning in cosmology, space technology, and climate science through the Agnirva Space Internship Program. Join, complete virtual projects, and earn a digital certificate to showcase your space fluency in interviews, resumes, and beyond.