Just two weeks in space causes changes in eyes

Just 13 days in space may be enough to cause profound changes in eye structure and gene expression, an article in Gravitational and Space Research reports.  artikkel  .

Since 2001, studies have shown astronauts are at increased risk of developing eye problems, like premature age-related macular degeneration. Experts suspect the cause is low gravity, heightened exposure to solar radiation, or a combination of the two.

Since 2001, studies have shown astronauts are at increased risk of developing eye problems, like premature age-related macular degeneration. Experts suspect the cause is low gravity, heightened exposure to solar radiation, or a combination of the two.

To determine the impact of radiation exposure on eyes a group of researchers examined mice following a 13-day trip aboard space shuttle Discovery (STS-133). The researchers examined the eyes and surrounding tissues for broad changes in structure and shape that could relate to low gravity.

Mice returning to Earth showed immediate evidence of oxidative stress in their retinas. But the retinas appeared to return to normal by the seventh day on Earth. An indicator of oxidative stress in the cornea was also elevated one day after mice had returned from orbit, but returned to near-normal levels by the seventh day. But also optic nerve changes consistent with mechanical injury were noted and these changes did not resolve.

The scientists stressed that the strain of mice used in the study are known to be unusually sensitive to light, and that the severity of oxidative, cellular, and tissue problems they saw would probably be milder in healthy human eyes.

Saidilt www.sciencedaily.com

Home » Just two weeks in space causes changes in eyes

Take our quick quiz to find your path to glasses-free living

Take our 2-minute test to see if laser eye surgery can unlock a new world of clear vision for you.

Teemad

Customer experiences

Embrace a brighter world, free from glasses and contacts

Step into a life of visual freedom and discover is laser eye surgery is right for you with a appointment

Embrace a brighter world, free from glasses and contacts

Step into a life of visual freedom and discover is laser eye surgery is right for you with a appointment

Happy young couple standing in the park, delighted with their new vision without glasses and contact lenses, pointing to the right at the text box.