Title : Protein turnover in space by: Andria slaughter
Abstract:
Space travel presents unique challenges to the human body, including altered forces, radiation exposure, and microgravity conditions. All of which can profoundly impact biological processes at a molecular level. The changes experienced from these stressors have lifelong consequences starting at basic levels, especially within proteins. Specifically in relation to NASA 's research goals stated in Appendix A, “Humans in Space”; this study investigates how proteins are affected by the challenges of space travel, and kefir as a nutritional aide for these challenges.
Results highlighted in this study show significant changes in protein synthesis and shape due to radiation and microgravity. It’s known that protein synthesis in the body decreases by 46% in space, attributed to the rapid pace of protein degradation in zero-gravity. Consequently, major bodily systems, including the digestive, musculoskeletal, immune, vision and endocrine systems, undergo significant changes. This alongside concerns regarding mental health and genome disturbance shows the intensity of microgravity effects. This imbalance mirrors cycles within bariatric individuals caused by similar protein imbalances. With global obesity rates on the rise, understanding the effects of protein function and balance during spaceflight provides valuable insight for health outcomes on any planet. By analyzing supremely healthy astronauts and drawing comparisons to unhealthy individuals on earth, safer approaches to research will accelerate medical developments. From these conclusions drawn, possible aides for protein turnover were evaluated, including the development of a protein enhancing nutrition supplement. Kefir provides essential nutrients and probiotics in patients currently and with enhancements could be a stellar nutritional resource for human kind.
