Musculoskeletal miRNA profiling after exposure to simulated space stressors in mice

Prolonged spaceflight exposes astronauts to chronic irradiation and microgravity, inducing oxidative stress through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study identified two microRNAs, Mir6236 and Mir6240, that were significantly downregulated in murine skeletal muscle following simulated space conditions. Sequencing and bioinformatics analysis revealed these microRNAs likely regulate key ROS-associated genes and pathways, including FN1, EZR, TRX2, and MAP2K1. Their dysregulation suggests a role in tumor progression, underscoring the need to further investigate microRNA-mediated gene regulation under space-like conditions to better understand the long-term health risks associated with extended space travel.