Postsynaptic density radiation signature following space irradiation.

The response of the brain to space radiation is an important concern for astronauts during space missions. Therefore, we assessed the response of the brain to Si ion irradiation (600 MeV/n), a heavy ion present in the space environment, on cognitive performance and whether the response is associated with altered DNA methylation in the hippocampus, a brain area important for cognitive performance. We determined the effects of Si ion irradiation on object recognition, 6-month-old mice irradiated with Si ions (600 MeV/n, 0.

Bi-directional and shared epigenomic signatures following proton and Fe irradiation.

The brain's response to radiation exposure is an important concern for patients undergoing cancer therapy and astronauts on long missions in deep space. We assessed whether this response is specific and prolonged and is linked to epigenetic mechanisms. We focused on the response of the hippocampus at early (2-weeks) and late (20-week) time points following whole body proton irradiation.

Short- and long-term effects of Fe irradiation on cognition and hippocampal DNA methylation and gene expression.

Background: Astronauts are exposed to Fe ions that may pose a significant health hazard during and following prolonged missions in deep space. We showed previously that object recognition requiring the hippocampus, a structure critical for cognitive function, is affected in 2-month-old mice irradiated with Fe ions. Here we examined object recognition in 6-month-old mice irradiated with Fe ions, a biological age more relevant to the typical ages of astronauts.