The effect of space flight on the protein composition of the exhaled breath condensate of cosmonauts

Abstract

As a part of development of medicine for extreme situations, we determined, for the first time, the protein composition of the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) of cosmonauts before and after long-lasting orbital flights on the International Space Station (ISS). The analysis was performed by electrospray ionization ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. The pattern of variation of the protein composition of the exhaled air during preflight preparation, at the time of landing, and seven days after landing was elucidated. Forty-four proteins, which appeared in the exhaled breath condensate of the cosmonauts after a long orbital flight and landing and were absent before the flight, were detected. These proteins included the immune response proteins, indicating cell and blood vessel damage. In some cases, a temporary appearance of cancer markers was noted.