Ferroptosis in space: How microgravity alters iron homeostasis

Abstract

As humanity ventures into space, understanding the effects of microgravity on fundamental cellular, molecular, and physiological processes is essential. Research in this area not only addresses the challenges faced during space exploration but also has the potential to lead to novel discoveries. Microgravity research in the field of biological sciences has gained significant importance as astronauts, cosmonauts, and taikonauts experience various pathological conditions while living under gravity levels vastly different from that on Earth. This review explores insights drawn from space missions and ground-based microgravity simulation models, highlighting changes in iron utilization, storage, transport, recycling, redox signaling, and oxidative stress under microgravity conditions. We aim to elucidate how these alterations may influence the risk of ferroptosis either by exacerbating or mitigating it during space missions. By investigating the effects of microgravity, we gain a deeper understanding of the role of iron and other contributing factors in ferroptotic cell death in space environments. This comprehensive review, therefore, examines the complex interplay between microgravity and iron dynamics, with particular focus on its implication for ferroptosis.