Work

Mitochondria as key targets underlying hypomagnetic field-induced biological effects

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: With the rapid development of human deep space exploration, prolonged exposure to hypomagnetic fields (HMF, <5 μT) - an environmental parameter with significantly reduced intensity compared to Earth's geomagnetic field (GMF) - poses unprecedented health challenges. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that HMF exposure induces negative effects on various system functions in animals, including the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, and the musculoskeletal systems and so forth. In this review, we systematically summarize the multi-level impacts of HMF on mitochondrial quality control and function, proposing mitochondria as direct and sensitive targets of HMF, with iron-sulfur clusters potentially playing a pivotal role. We also explore possible HMF-regulated signaling pathways. In conclusion, this review provides a valuable foundation for understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of HMF's potential risks to astronauts and for developing future coping strategies during spaceflight.

Source: iScience

DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.114389

Authors: Jie Ren, Menglin Wang, Chenchen Zhao, Yukai Luo, Lanxiang Tian

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Electromagnetic Fields and Biological Effects

Subfield: Biophysics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240