Table 1.
Physiological changes related to human reproduction and development | |
• ‘Sex’/‘Gender’ as well as sex steroid hormones in biological systems. | |
• Teratogenic and oncogenic space related-effects on reproductive systems. | |
• Foetal development of body systems in space-simulating conditions. | |
• Age-dependent evaluation of late memory, learning and cognitive performances. | |
• Long-term effects on gestation under space conditions. | |
• Monitoring development and function of offspring conceived and developed in space. | |
Male reproductive health aspects | Female reproductive health aspects |
• Spermatogenesis relies on testicular spermatogonial stem cells, which require a functional stem cell niche. | • Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian-endometrial interplay is tightly regulated for normal functioning |
• Generation of functional sperm, requires spermatogenesis, spermiogenesis, and final maturation processed in the epididymis. | • Quantification of venous thromboembolism risk to female astronauts using the combined oral contraceptive pill. |
• Androgens are essential for development and function of the internal and external reproductive organs | • Multidisciplinary professional teams are crucial in providing pregnancy and neonatal care. |
Timeline of potential research questions regarding reproductive health aspects | |
Short term | • How is the menstrual cycle, including age of menopause, influenced by spaceflight? |
• What is the impact of spaceflight on quality and competence of gametes (eggs/sperm)? | |
• How does space travel impact gynaecological conditions in female astronauts? | |
• What is the effect of space travel on libido and sexual attraction? | |
Medium term | • How does prolonged exposure to space radiation affect HPG axis regulation in adults? |
• How does menstrual suppression affect female astronauts? | |
• What are the effects of prolonged exposure to the space environment on reproductive organs? | |
• Can a multidisciplinary team be developed to support pregnancy and birth in space? | |
• What is the role of hormone replacement therapy in female astronauts? | |
Long term | • How does prolonged exposure to space radiation affect HPG axis during puberty/aging? |
• Are there transgenerational effects on gamete quality? | |
• Is medical assisted reproduction feasible in space? | |
• Do female astronauts need additional monitoring during a pregnancy after space travel? | |
• What are the effects of spaceflight during the early postpartum phase? |
Timeline: short [3 years], medium [5 years], long [10 years]).
aRef. 1.