Scientists propose investigating the influence of natural background radiation on the ageing process. They want to use laboratories deep underground for this purpose. In those places, the amount of cosmic radiation, such as muons, is much lower because the Earth's crust blocks these particles.
The reason for this research is that radiation can cause damage to genetic material and to the process by which genes are switched on or off, also known as epigenetics. This damage plays a role in ageing and organ failure. Until now, it has been difficult to precisely measure the magnitude of this influence of radiation, because it is present everywhere.
The idea is to cultivate cells underground and compare them with the same cells growing above ground. This could provide new insights into how radiation affects the ageing process. The experiment is proposed at the Laboratorio Subterráneo de Canfranc in Spain, one of Europe's largest underground laboratories.
This research may also be important for people who spend extended periods in areas with elevated radiation levels, such as astronauts. In addition, it can help us better understand how to keep our bodies healthy for longer by limiting the impact of harmful environmental factors.
Understanding the role of radiation in ageing is valuable for anyone who wants to age healthily.
Source: Josh Conway
