An Overview of Changes in Immune System in Space and Microgravity Conditions

The immune system is a complex network of biological structures and processes that by reducing its function or slightly modifying any of its aspects can increase the risk of disease. Research suggests that gravity changes cause alterations in the immune system. This could also lead to conditions where astronauts suffer from skin irritation, abnormal allergies orreactivation of latent viruses. Furthermore, several bacterial strains can proliferate more readily in space which may be related to human reduced immunity. Also, it is observed that some immune cells are impaired and there are changes in the amount of protein produced by these cells. Hence, the weakening of the immune system due to space flight is an area of research that should be fully evaluated in order to maintain the homeostasis of body under such conditions. This article briefly describes the microgravity effects on the immune system, and the results could have ground application in addition to implications for the flight crew.