Monitoring immune system function and reactivation of latent viruses in the Artificial Gravity Pilot Study

Abstract

Numerous studies have indicated that dysregulation of the immune system occurs during or after spaceflight. Using 21 day 6 head-down tilt bed rest as a spaceflight analog, this study describes the effects of a daily artificial gravity (AG) countermeasure treatment on immunity, stress, and reactivation of clinically important latent herpes viruses. Blood, saliva, and urine samples were collected from each of the 15 male test subjects (8 treatment, 7 control) periodically throughout the study. The immune assessment consisted of a comprehensive peripheral immunophenotype analysis, intracellular cytokine profiles, and measurement of T cell function. With the exception of mild reactivation of Epstein-Barr (EBV) and Varicella zoster (VZV) viruses, no significant changes in immune function were observed, suggesting that the AG countermeasure and the 21 day head-down tilt bed rest regimen had no adverse effect on immune function.