"A weaker immunity increases the risk of infectious diseases limiting astronauts' ability to perform their very demanding work in space. Also Read | Scientists document how space travel messes with the human brainLeukocytes are produced in the bone marrow and travel through the bloodstream and tissues. Gene expression in 247 genes in leukocytes was at about one third the normal levels while in space, the study found. Discovering altered gene behaviour in leukocytes is "a significant step toward understanding human immune dysregulation in space," Trudel added. Other documented effects of space travel include bone and muscle atrophy, cardiovascular changes, issues with the balance system in the inner ear and a syndrome involving the eyes.

Source: The Hindu June 23, 2023 10:17 UTC