Reactive mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with limonene for improving physical and mental health of mice at simulated microgravity condition

Abstract Astronauts are under high stress for a long time because of the microgravity condition, which leads to anxiety, affects their learning and memory abilities, and seriously impairs the health of astronauts. Aromatherapy can improve the physical and mental health of astronauts in a way that moisturizes them softly and silently. However, the strong volatility of fragrances and inconvenience of aroma treatment greatly limit their application in the field of spaceflight. In this study, reactive mesoporous silica nanoparticles were prepared to encapsulate and slowly release limonene. The limonene loaded nanoparticles were named limonene@mesoporous silica nanoparticles-cyanuric chloride (LE@MSNs-CYC). LE@MSNs-CYC were then applied to wallpaper to improve the convenience of aromatherapy. LE@MSNs-CYC could chemically react with the wallpaper, thus firmly adsorbed on the wallpaper. In the following, the mice were treated with hindlimb unloading (HU) to simulate a microgravity environment. The results showed that 28-day HU led to an increase in the level of anxiety and declines in learning, memory, and physical health in mice. LE@MSNs-CYC showed significant relief effects on anxiety, learning, memory, and physical health of HU treated mice. Subsequently, the molecular mechanisms were explored by hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis related hormones, immune-related cytokines, learning, and memory-related neurotransmitters and proteins.