Zero gravity could ‘expand’ astronauts’ brains, study says

Some research suggests that space conditions significantly affect human health – it’s no surprise that this still remains the biggest challenge for planning manned missions to Mars. According to a recent study published in Scientific Reports, zero gravity can significantly affect the human brain during space travel.

Researchers at the University of Florida used data from 30 astronauts and found that: cerebral ventricles enlarged in those who served longer than six months. The peak of growth was up to six months, after which time they did not notice any significant changes.

What are the ventricles of the brain?

The ventricles are cavities in the brain responsible for nutrition, protection, and waste disposal. It turned out that the fluids in the brain are evenly distributed, but zero gravity causes this fluid to move. The result is enlargement of the ventricles.

Prolonged stays in space can cause your brain ventricles to enlarge, according to Rachael Seidler, professor of applied physiology and kinesiology at the University of Florida. He said it takes about three years for the ventricles to fully heal and return to normal.

“The biggest jump happens when you go from two weeks to six months in space. After that there is no measurable change in the volume of the ventricles. [o astronauta permanecer no espaço por] just two weeks,” Seidler said.

Zero gravity and the brain

As the study explains, the researchers analyzed data from astronauts flying on missions for two weeks, six months, and a year. Of the 30 people surveyed, 8 held shorter assignments, 18 served up to six months and 4 one-year assignments.

The study explains that There are still no definitive statements about the consequences of ventricular enlargement in humans.But scientists believe it is prudent to keep the physiology of the brain as it really is. In any case, they will continue to study the issue as long-term manned space missions are planned by different space agencies.

“We’re happy to see that the changes aren’t exponential given that we’ll eventually be in space for longer periods of time. We’re still not sure what the long-term consequences of this are on the health and behavior of space travelers, so it seems like a good idea to let the brain recover,” said Seidler. .