According to Mason, the NASA Twin study is one of the most extensive in human biology which will help scientists understand the molecular risks in space travel and create ways to protect genetic changes. The research studies four main elements of human biology. Physiology and how various organs such as the heart and brain were affected by microgravity, perception and reasoning changes in the brain which incidentally forms the core of healthy behavior, the human microbiome and how gut bacteria was affected by space flight. The final and fourth element was the observations on gene changes between Scott and Mark.
The unique study as a first of its kind for NASA would have not been possible had it not been for the cooperation of Scott and Mark. While Scott remained in Space for about 11 months along with his Russian partner, Kornienko, Mark remained on earth. The study is part of NASA human research program to try and make space flight as safe as possible.
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The early results of the study yielded interesting elements of genetic change. While the aspect of telomere growth fascinated scientists, it was also suggested that the growth could have been due to the rigorous exercise routines that astronauts have to undergo as well a reduction in calories during a mission. The surprising factor was that telomeres reduce with aging. However, it was also noted that the DNA changes in Scott returned back to normal after he returned to earth.
Where the Biochemical profile was concerned, researchers found a decline in bone formation during the second half of the space mission. There was also an increase in inflammatory elements immediately after landing which research attributes to increased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone which remained normal throughout the mission. Scotts reduced bone formation could have been due to exercise and countermeasures during the mission.
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