New research on space health by the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING) has identified biological mechanisms and genes that appear to be consistently affected by exposure to microgravity.
The research team, led by Professor George Spyrou, Head of CING’s Department of Bioinformatics, studied how the human body responds to the extreme conditions of space, focusing on changes in gene activity, cellular functions and molecular pathways.
As human missions in space become longer, researchers are working to better understand the health risks faced by astronauts and identify possible ways to protect them.
Genes linked to stress and heart function
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Spyrou said the aim of the research was to determine which genes change their behaviour, which cellular processes are affected and which mechanisms play a central role in the body’s response to the space environment.
The team used bioinformatics methods to analyse large volumes of biological data, including gene expression data from human cells exposed to microgravity conditions.
Researchers focused on mechanisms associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, cardiovascular function and cellular defence against damage.
The study also used computational methods to investigate whether existing medicines could potentially be used to address some of the effects caused by space conditions.
Database supports future research
As part of the project, researchers developed an open online database and analysis tool that collects data from space biology studies.
The platform aims to make research easier and accelerate the discovery of new knowledge related to human health in space.
Spyrou said the collaboration with the Cyprus Space Exploration Organisation (CSEO) has created a bridge between space science and biomedical research in Cyprus.
The goal is to contribute both to protecting astronaut health and to gaining knowledge that could improve human health on Earth.
Cyprus space and biomedical collaboration
The collaboration between CING’s Department of Bioinformatics and CSEO began through the programme for the creation of the Cyprus Space Research and Innovation Centre (C-SpaRC).
Spyrou described C-SpaRC as an initiative aimed at establishing Cyprus as a hub for space research and innovation, supporting the country’s growing space ecosystem.
The project secured competitive funding through the Research and Innovation Foundation’s Strategic Infrastructures programme and operates under the support of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) as an International Space Innovation Centre.
Space environment leaves biological impact
One of the main findings of the research is that space conditions appear to affect the human body deeply, causing changes not only at a physiological level but also at cellular and genetic levels.
Spyrou explained that microgravity, increased radiation exposure and oxidative stress create biological pressure, forcing cells to adapt.
The researchers identified genes and molecular pathways linked to cardiovascular function, inflammation, cellular repair and the body’s natural defence mechanisms.
Some changes appear to continue even after returning from space, suggesting that the effects of the space environment may leave a longer-term biological impact than previously thought.
However, Spyrou stressed that the findings are mainly based on computational analysis and available experimental data, meaning further research and experimental confirmation are needed.
Findings could benefit Earth health
Spyrou said the findings add an important piece to understanding how the human body reacts to extreme environments.
He noted that some of the biological mechanisms studied, including inflammation, cellular stress responses and cardiovascular dysfunction, are also linked to common diseases on Earth.
“By studying these phenomena in the extreme environment of space, we can gain useful insights into disease biology on Earth,” he said.
He added that studying the human body under space-like conditions can help scientists better understand how it functions under normal conditions and potentially improve future healthcare strategies.
Also read: Why is childhood cancer increasing in Cyprus?
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