Immunobiology of Human Space Exploration

Space travel is associated with immune dysregulation that may increase clinical risk in future exploration crew. Prolonged orbital spaceflight missions have shown a number of immune and clinical changes that are akin to advanced human aging, including alterations to the peripheral T-cell and NK-cell compartments, impairments in humoral immunity, latent viral reactivation, and persistent hypersensitivity. We seek articles that are focused on immune dysregulation during spaceflight and spaceflight analog environments, particularly when immunological endpoints that overlap with human aging are considered. Articles focused on the effectiveness of countermeasures designed to mitigate the risk of immune dysregulation during space travel are particularly encouraged. Articles may be commentaries or original research.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) are handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.