[SCIENCE MONDAY] - Oxidative stress is a key contributor to bone loss during space missions

Microgravity leads to a significant reduction in bone mass in astronauts. Beyond the lack of mechanical loading, a review published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine highlights the central role of oxidative stress in this process. In space, mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species, together with cosmic radiation and disruptions of circadian rhythms, damage the cells responsible for bone formation and promote the activity of cells involved in bone resorption. These effects may persist even after astronauts return to Earth and are influenced by factors such as sex and age. The review also discusses potential biomarkers and countermeasures aimed at preventing or reducing the skeletal effects of microgravity.

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