Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32576: How Spaceflight Rewires the Immune System: Insights from Twin Astronauts

The HERO Twin Astronaut Study Consortium (TASC): Immunome Changes in Space zeroes in on one of the most crucial biological systems affected by spaceflight: the immune system. Using a twin astronaut model, this study tracked how immune cells and molecular signals changed in response to prolonged exposure to microgravity and space radiation.

Before launch, throughout the mission, and after the astronaut twin returned, researchers collected blood samples to examine T-cells, cytokines, and gene expression related to immunity. What they discovered was a complex rearrangement of immune functions—some defensive responses were heightened, while others weakened. The study also found changes in inflammation-related pathways that could increase susceptibility to infections or autoimmune conditions in space.

These revelations are significant for planning future missions to Mars or beyond, where immune suppression or overreaction could jeopardize crew health. The findings also help refine immunology models for Earth-based medicine, especially in understanding how extreme environments alter our body’s natural defenses.

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