Oxidative Damage Under Microgravity Conditions: Response Mechanisms, Monitoring Methods and Countermeasures on Somatic and Germ Cells

作者：Zekai Chen, Jingtong Xie, Chiyuan Ma, Pengfei Zhang, Xiaohua Lei · 发表于：International Journal of Molecular Sciences · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.3390/ijms26104583 · 被引用次数：8 · 研究领域：Spaceflight effects on biology

With the growing human interest in space exploration, understanding the oxidative damage effects of microgravity on somatic and germ cells and their underlying mechanisms has become a pivotal scientific challenge for ensuring reproductive health during long-term space missions. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the molecular mechanisms of microgravity-induced oxidative stress, advanced detection methods, and potential protective strategies for germ cells. The evidence demonstrates that microgravity substantially compromises germ cell viability and embryonic developmental potential by disrupting mitochondrial function, increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and impairing antioxidant defenses. These alterations result in DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation, thereby affecting cellular integrity and functionality. Furthermore, we discuss how cells respond to microgravity-induced oxidative stress through adaptive mechanisms, such as autophagy, apoptosis, and antioxidant systems, although these responses can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on cellular homeostasis. Additionally, this paper highlights the utility of fluorescent probes for detecting ROS levels under microgravity conditions, which are convenient and practical, but may require further optimization to improve sensitivity and specificity. To counteract these challenges, interventions such as antioxidants and artificial gravity systems show promise but need rigorous v...