Molecular mechanisms of melatonin’s protection against high-LET radiation: implications for space travel
Melatonin protection against high-LET radiation
Abstract
During a deep space mission, the central nervous system (CNS) and other organs are exposed to galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events. Health risks associated with various organs and systems are important issues in a long-term spaceflight. Potential CNS damage during a space mission could alter cognitive functions which might impact performance and individual’s health. The neuronal injury originating from exposure to 56Fe particle irradiation involves the elevated oxidative stress which can be inhibited by melatonin pretreatment. Melatonin exerts potent neuroprotective effects against carbon ion-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in the mouse brain. A significant increase in the count of immature neurons and proliferating cells was detected in the mice under 56Fe particle irradiation cotreated with the melatonin metabolite, AFMK. Melatonin treatment also significantly reduced the carbon ion-induced apoptotic cells and elevated oxidative stress in the mouse testis. The results suggest that melatonin treatment is a potential strategy to protect against space radiation hazards. Spaceflight-induced molecular, cellular, and physiologic changes lead to alterations across many organs and systems. Epigenetic, gene expression, inflammatory, and metabolic responses to spaceflight should be examined and means to safe-guard against these changes in upcoming missions. Precision medicine will be crucial for assessing and augmenting efficacy of melatonin or other medications in astronauts. In addition, enhancing radio-resistance of humans is a novel strategy for a long-term space mission. Further investigations with a combination of melatonin and other novel technologies are warranted to better alleviate HZE particle irradiation-induced damage to astronauts on long-term space exploration missions.
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