Exploring the Impact of Simulated Microgravity on Cellular DNA: A Comparative Analysis of Cancer and Normal Cell Lines

Abstract The examination of the impact of microgravity on biological systems has gained considerable attention owing to its potential implications for health and disease. Simulated microgravity serves as a valuable methodology for elucidating the intricate cellular responses to altered gravitational conditions. This study investigates the effects of simulated microgravity on cellular DNA, employing four distinct cell lines—breast, brain, and esophageal cancer cells, in conjunction with normal cells for comparative analysis. The experiment utilized the comet assay test to quantitatively assess DNA damage. The results revealed a discernible disparity in the response to simulated microgravity, notably with cancer cells exhibiting a significant increase in DNA damage compared to the relatively minimal effects observed in both control and normal cells. Furthermore, within the cancer cell lines, significant variations in the extent of DNA damage were evident, implying a cell type-dependent response to simulated microgravity. These findings illuminate the potential differential susceptibility of cancerous and normal cells to microgravity-induced DNA damage. Consequently, this research substantially contributes to our comprehension of microgravity-induced cellular responses and unveils promising avenues for targeted interventions in cancer therapy.