American scientists from Florida State University studied the effects of space conditions on reproductive health. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB).
During flights beyond the Earth, a person is exposed to high levels of cosmic radiation and weightlessness. As shown by simulation experiments on male rats, these factors can negatively affect the body’s vascular tissues associated with erectile dysfunction. Moreover, the effect may persist even after a long recovery period.
According to scientists, relatively low doses of cosmic radiation are sufficient to cause changes in vascular tissues. Microgravity is also involved in this process, but to a lesser extent, and its effect is primarily associated with increased oxidative stress in cells. Experts stated that this problem can be corrected with the help of various antioxidants.
“This study, together with human spaceflight planned in the coming years, shows that astronauts’ reproductive health should be carefully monitored when they return to Earth.
“Although the adverse effects of galactic cosmic radiation are long-lasting, functional improvements caused by acute effects on redox and nitric oxide pathways in tissues suggest that erectile dysfunction is treatable,” said study author Dr. Justin La Favor.
Previous scientists was created Composition that protects astronauts from bone tissue loss in zero gravity.