Achilles tendon exhibits distinct transcriptomic changes with increased mitochondrial energy production under lunar gravity

In space, the absence or reduction of gravitational forces leads to musculoskeletal deterioration, posing significant challenges for astronauts and individuals experiencing prolonged immobilization. Consequently, the effects of microgravity on muscle and bone have been extensively studied.

Recent research highlights the crucial role of tendons in force transmission and mechanical stability; however, their transcriptomic response to reduced gravity remains largely unexplored. Here, we examined the adaptations of the Achilles tendons to lunar gravity (1/6 of Earth gravity) using RNA sequencing of tissue samples obtained from mice reared in the International Space Station for 25-26 days. Compared to quadriceps femoris muscles and brown adipose tissue, a greater number of genes were upregulated in the Achilles tendons under reduced gravity.