Maintaining a Healthy Gut Microbiome during Space Exploration

As scientists start planning for long-term space missions one of the issues being studied is the impact of microgravity on body systems, including gastrointestional function. A review, published in Frontiers in Physiology today, looked specifically at the effects of changes in the microbiome that could impact the health of space travelers.

One of the studies discussed in the paper found that the microbiomes of space travelers on the same mission became more similar to each other during the journey. There was also an increase in bacteria associated with intestinal inflammation and a decrease in those with anti-inflammatory properties.

"Changes in the microbiome are likely to lead to the breakdown of the balanced and complex relationship between microbes and their human host, with potentially severe repercussions on the functionality of body systems," said first author Prof. Silvia Turroni of the University of Bologna.

However, the review reveals that manipulating the gut microbiome may be a powerful way to maintain health on board a spacecraft. "The literature suggests that nutritional countermeasures based on prebiotics and probiotics hold great promise to protect space travelers," Turroni added.

The countermeasures Turroni mentions could be as simple as nutritionally balanced meals, with lots of fiber to kickstart microbial metabolism in the gut. Other options could be more targeted, including microbial supplements, such as bacteria that secrete immune-boosting substances, or those that synthesize vitamins required for bone growth. There is a huge variety of pro-biotics and nutritional options to protect space travelers from specific issues they may encounter in space. However, there is still plenty of work required to figure out which treatments are most effective and how best to use them for each space traveler.

"The well-being of the gut microbiome of space travelers should be among the primary goals of long-duration exploratory missions," said senior author Prof. Martina Heer of the University of Bonn. "To ensure the success of the mission, we must not overlook the myriad of microorganisms that reside in our gastrointestinal tract and make sure they are in balance."