The study, led by researchers from University College London and a coalition of over 40 institutions, investigated how spaceflight affects astronauts' kidneys. Turns out, many astronauts who went to the moon had kidney issues like kidney stones and might even need dialysis. Another study on 24 astronauts who went to the moon revealed that many experienced kidney changes.

These findings could be a big deal for astronauts heading to Mars. The study says that the most thorough look at kidney health in space travel raises worries about astronauts' health during long space missions. Published in Nature Communications, this research points out the challenges NASA and SpaceX might face in their Mars plans due to these health concerns.

astronauts
Image Source: NASA

The damage to the kidneys is caused by both microgravity and cosmic radiation. Microgravity leads to alterations in kidney function and structure, like tubular shrinkage. Galactic Cosmic Radiation (GCR) also plays a role in kidney damage. Mice exposed to simulated GCR for 2.5 years displayed lasting kidney damage and dysfunction.

Developing Protective Measures for Astronauts' Kidney Health

Researchers found specific changes in astronauts' kidneys after space travel. There were signs of structural remodeling and altered function in the kidneys. Specific kidney tubules responsible for calcium and sodium delivery shrank significantly. These transformations increase the risk of kidney stones due to changes in salt processing.

Researchers examined data and samples from more than 40 space missions in low-Earth orbit, involving both humans and mice. They conducted 11 space simulations with mice and rats, subjecting them to microgravity and cosmic radiation. Mice exposed to simulated GCR for 2.5 years displayed lasting kidney damage.

The implications for Mars missions are significant. Without new protective measures, astronauts may need dialysis when returning from Mars. Developing drugs or technologies to safeguard astronauts' kidneys from space-related damage is crucial. As stated in the study, these protective measures could also benefit cancer patients on Earth by shielding their kidneys during radiotherapy.

Scientists are working towards creating pharmaceutical or technological solutions to reduce kidney damage in space. One proposed solution includes using onboard dialysis machines for extended space missions.

Space travel poses various health challenges, such as heart weakening, vision deterioration, bone density loss, and muscle wasting. It is crucial to comprehend and address these risks for upcoming lunar and Martian missions. There are indications that women may exhibit greater resilience to space-related health issues. However, additional research is required to confirm this.

The study received the funding from the Wellcome Trust, St Peters Trust, and Kidney Research UK (KRUK). Lead author Dr. Keith Siew from the London Tubular Centre at UCL Department of Renal Medicine and senior author Professor Stephen Walsh led the research. This collaborative effort involved researchers from five continents. The study emphasizes the critical role of kidney health in planning prolonged space missions, highlighting the necessity of protective measures for the safety and success of missions to Mars and beyond.

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