Short-term effects of simulated microgravity on morphology and gene expression in human breast cancer cells

Abstract

Microgravity has been shown to impose various effects on breast cancer cells. We exposed human breast cancer cells to simulated microgravity and studied morphology and alterations in gene expression. Human breast cancer cells were exposed to simulated microgravity in a random positioning machine (RPM) for 24h. Morphology was observed under light microscopy, and gene alteration was studied by qPCR. After 24h, formation of three-dimensional structures (spheroids) occurred. BRCA1 expression was significantly increased (1.9×, p < 0.05) in the adherent cells under simulated microgravity compared to the control. Expression of KRAS was significantly decreased (0.6×, p < 0.05) in the adherent cells compared to the control. VCAM1 was significantly upregulated (6.6×, 2.0×, p < 0.05 each) in the adherent cells under simulated microgravity and in the spheroids. VIM expression was significantly downregulated (0.45×, 0.44×, p < 0.05 each) in the adherent cells under simulated microgravity and in the spheroids. There was no significant alteration in the expression of MAPK1, MMP13, PTEN, and TP53. Simulated microgravity induces spheroid formation in human breast cancer cells within 24h and alters gene expression toward modified adhesion properties, enhanced cell repair, and phenotype preservation. Further insights into the underlying mechanisms could open up the way toward new therapies.