Cypriot scientists discover how space changes the human body: breakthrough could help millions

Researchers have identified genes that respond to weightlessness, and their work could prove useful not only for astronauts but also for medicine on Earth.

Researchers from the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics have discovered genes that consistently change their activity under weightless conditions. The finding could help protect astronauts during long-duration space missions and open up new possibilities for treating common diseases on Earth.

The work was led by Professor George Spiru. The team analyzed large amounts of biological data, including the results of studies of human cells in microgravity, to determine which processes are triggered in the body far from Earth.

What happens to the body in space

The analysis showed that the changes affect genes linked to the cardiovascular system, inflammatory processes, cell repair and the body’s natural defenses against stress. According to Spiru, weightlessness, space radiation and cellular stress trigger complex biological mechanisms that scientists are only beginning to understand.

The study also showed that some changes persist even after a person returns to Earth. This suggests that exposure to microgravity may leave a long-term mark on the body.

Benefits beyond space

In addition to identifying genetic changes, the researchers examined the potential use of existing medicines to reduce the negative effects of spaceflight and created an online database to accelerate research in space biology.

The scientists note that many of the effects identified — inflammation, cellular stress and disruptions in cardiovascular function — are also characteristic of diseases that affect people on Earth. The findings could therefore have applications far beyond space medicine.

At the same time, the authors stress that the conclusions are currently based primarily on computer analysis and existing experimental data and require further confirmation.