Space immunology - Past, present and futureResearch results on the causes and mechanisms of change in immune systems during spaceflight are briefly reviewed. The most reliable conclusion from the sparse existing data is that postflight crew members exhibit a transient neutrophilia, eosinopenia, monocytopenia, reduced numbers of circulating T cells, and an often pronounced decrease in the ability of their T cells to respond to mitogen stimulation. Clinically, no direct predictive relationship between any of these measurements and increased health risk or disease has been established. Future areas of research are suggested in light of NASA's emerging requirements to support long-duration missions.
Document ID
19900037765
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Coulter, Gary R. (NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Taylor, Gerald R. (NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Sonnenfeld, Gerald (Louisville, University KY, United States)