| Autor: |
Mircea AA; Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.; Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania., Pistritu DV; Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.; Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania., Fortner A; Medical School, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany., Tanca A; Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.; Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania., Liehn EA; Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.; Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.; Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark., Bucur O; Viron Molecular Medicine Institute, Boston, MA 02451, USA.; Genomics Research and Development Institute, 020021 Bucharest, Romania. |
| Abstrakt: |
Space flight modulates the functions of the cardiovascular system. The exposure to space conditions can alter the cerebral blood flow, as well as the venous return. Anemia, cardiac output changes, and increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system can also be seen. Understanding cardiac changes prepares astronauts for both better in-flight adaptations and long-term protection against cardiovascular diseases. The heart could undergo radio-degenerative effects when exposed to space radiation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the long run. A high frequency of arrhythmias, such as ventricular/atrial premature complexes, have been reported during the Gemini and Apollo missions. Additionally, microgravity can lead to progressive degeneration of the myocytes and muscle atrophy with altered gene expression and calcium handling, along with impaired contractility. This review summarizes the potential cardiovascular effects of spaceflight and prevention measures. |
