How does zero gravity in space impact the human liver?

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About the research

What happens to your body in space? It’s not just about floating! Without gravity, the human body faces challenges we’re only beginning to understand. Sinem Helvacıoğlu Akyüz (VUB) is researching how microgravity affects the liver. Using ground-based simulations of space conditions, she studies drug transporters — proteins that help move medicines and chemicals in and out of liver cells. Why does this matter? If these transporters behave differently in space, astronauts could face serious health risks. By uncovering how the liver responds to microgravity, Sinem’s research aims to make future space travel safer — and may even offer insights for improving healthcare here on Earth.

Astronomy
Health
Sinem Helvacıoğlu Akyüz
VUB

Sinem obtained her bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences and her master's in molecular biology and genetics. After obtaining a PhD in pharmaceutical toxicology, she wanted to explore the exciting and emerging field of space toxicology. As a postdoctoral researcher, she joined the Vrije Universiteit Brussels, where she studies the effects of microgravity on liver cells.

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