Chandigarh: A new research collaboration has been established involving PGI, ISRO, the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysore, and IIT Ropar. This initiative aims to investigate the effects of space conditions on nutrition, gut microbiota, and overall human health, in alignment with India’s Gaganyaan mission, the first human spaceflight program by ISRO, scheduled for its inaugural crewed flight in 2027.

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A senior PGI expert explained that the project will utilize a specialized laboratory designed to simulate conditions in space and observe metabolic and microbial changes. Initial animal studies will assess how specific foods influence gut microbiota, with the ultimate goal of optimizing diets and health interventions for astronauts. The food developed from this research will be provided to those participating in space missions, including Gaganyaan.

Funded by ISRO, the project will leverage ground-based simulation facilities to study the impacts of microgravity and the space environment on human subjects, with a focus on acid-base homeostasis, crucial for normal physiological functioning. Prof. S K Bhadada, co-principal investigator from PGI, stated that a significant component of the study will explore how specific dietary interventions alter gut microbiota. Understanding these shifts is vital because gut microbes significantly influence metabolic and endocrine disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

The research aims to provide insights into organ health and create targeted dietary strategies for astronauts. Dr. Poonam Khanna from PGI’s department of community medicine will focus on nutrition, while Prof. Bhadada will concentrate on bone health. Project scientist Rahul Saini noted that the initiative began in April and that plans for a simulation lab at PGI are underway.

The research team is also organizing an interactive webinar on October 12 to raise awareness and engage the community. Participants in the webinar will receive certificates, and it will feature a discussion with ISRO astronaut Group Capt Angad Pratap. The organizers emphasize that involvement is open to the public, as broader studies will help validate findings and may lead to national-level research initiatives.

Key Objectives of the Research:

- Examine how space conditions impact human metabolism and physiological functions.

- Investigate the role of gut microbiota in digestion, metabolism, and immune function.

- Develop dietary strategies that support astronaut health during space missions like Gaganyaan.