B-cell immunology in space

Abstract

Bioastronautic programs run over the last 50 years have shown that environmental conditions encountered during space missions reduce immunological competence. This chapter will review known effects on B-cell development and on the response of these antibody-producing cells under real or simulated space conditions. Comparison of changes affecting these cells with those previously reported in the elderly suggests that space missions could lead to premature aging of the immune system.