A new study published June 7 in the journal Scientific Reports found that space travel weakens the immune system by causing the abnormal activation of cells that suppress immune responses. Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco and the Stanford University School of Medicine arrived at this finding after exposing human blood samples to simulated weak gravity, or microgravity. They then used … Continue reading Researchers discover how space travel weakens astronauts’ immune systems
Space cooties: Should astronauts be worried about fungi on space stations?
Bacteria and viruses are not the only tiny hitchhikers during outer space that might endanger the health of astronauts. Recently, Belgian researchers brought up concerns about microscopic fungi living aboard space stations and spacecraft, especially the upcoming missions to the moon and Mars. Experts know very little about the potential pathogenic properties of these microorganisms. The … Continue reading Space cooties: Should astronauts be worried about fungi on space stations?
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 