When hibernation is exploited in human during space travel, immune system function would be reduced seriously

Sahin I. B.

64th International Astronautical Congress 2013, IAC 2013, Beijing, China, 23 - 27 September 2013, vol.1, pp.366-368 identifier

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
  • Volume: 1
  • City: Beijing
  • Country: China
  • Page Numbers: pp.366-368
  • Ankara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Human studies have indicated that space flight alters leukocyte distribution, interferon and other cytokine production, and natural killer cell activity in humans. Likewise hibernate animals, torpor period seriously reduces numbers of all types of leukocytes and therefore increase infection risk. There is a substantial decline in immune function during torpor. The matter is, if hibernation is exploited in human, immune system could be serious problem. Because both space flight and hibernation have weakened the immune system.