Differential regulation of L-type Ca2+ channels in cerebral and mesenteric arteries after simulated microgravity in rats and its intervention by standing

This study was designed to clarify whether simulated microgravity can induce differential changes in the current and protein expression of the L-type Ca(2+) channel (Ca(L)) in cerebral and mesenteric arteries and whether these changes can be prevented by daily short-duration -G(x) exposure. Tail suspension [hindlimb unloading (HU)] for 3 and 28 days was used to simulate short- and medium-term microgravity-induced deconditioning effects. Standing (STD) for 1 h/day was used to provide -G(x) as a countermeasure. Whole cell patch-clamp experiments revealed an increase in current density of Ca(L) of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) isolated from cerebral arteries of rats subjected to HU and a decrease in VSMCs from mesenteric arteries. Western blot analysis revealed a significant increase and decrease of Ca(L) channel protein expression in cerebral and small mesenteric arterial VSMCs, respectively, only after 28 days of HU. STD for 1 h/day did not prevent the increase of Ca(L) current density in cerebral arterial VSMCs, but it prevented completely (within 3 days) and partially (28 days) the decrease of Ca(L) current density in small mesenteric arterial VSMCs. Consistent with the changes in Ca(L) current, STD for 1 h/day did not prevent the increase of Ca(L) expression in cerebrovascular myocytes but did prevent the reduction of Ca(L) expression in mesenteric arterial VSMCs subjected to 28 days of HU. These data indicate that simulated microgravity up- and downregulates the current and expression of Ca(L) in cerebral and hindquarter VSMCs, respectively. STD for 1 h/day differentially counteracted the changes of Ca(L) function and expression in cerebral and hindquarter arterial VSMCs of HU rats, suggesting the complexity of the underlying mechanisms in the effectiveness of intermittent artificial gravity for prevention of postflight cardiovascular deconditioning, which needs further clarification.

Increased nitric oxide synthase activity and expression in the hypothalamus of hindlimb unloaded rats

Upon return from spaceflight or resumption of normal posture after bed rest, individuals often exhibit cardiovascular deconditioning. Although the mechanisms responsible for cardiovascular deconditioning have yet to be fully elucidated, alterations within the central nervous system have been postulated to be involved. The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON) of the hypothalamus are important brain regions in control of sympathetic outflow and body fluid homeostasis. Nitric oxide (NO) modulates the activity of PVN and SON neurons, and alterations in NO transmission within these brain regions may contribute to symptoms of cardiovascular deconditioning. The purpose of the present study was to examine nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and expression in the PVN and SON of control and hindlimb unloaded (HU) rats, an animal model of cardiovascular deconditioning. The number of neurons exhibiting NOS activity as assessed by NADPH-diaphorase staining was significantly greater in the PVN but not SON of HU rats. Western blot analysis revealed that neuronal NOS (nNOS) but not endothelial NOS (eNOS) protein expression was higher in the PVN of HU rats. In the SON, there was a strong trend for an increase in nNOS (p=0.052) and a significant increase in eNOS expression in HU rats. Our results suggest that increased nNOS in the PVN contributes to autonomic and humoral alterations following cardiovascular deconditioning. In contrast, the functional significance of increases in nNOS and eNOS protein in the SON may be related to alterations in vasopressin release observed previously in HU rats.

Ambulation in simulated fractional gravity using lower body positive pressure: cardiovascular safety and gait analyses

The purpose of this study is to assess cardiovascular responses to lower body positive pressure (LBPP) and to examine the effects of LBPP unloading on gait mechanics during treadmill ambulation. We hypothesized that LBPP allows comfortable unloading of the body with minimal impact on the cardiovascular system and gait parameters. Fifteen healthy male and female subjects (22–55 yr) volunteered for the study. Nine underwent noninvasive cardiovascular studies while standing and ambulating upright in LBPP, and six completed a gait analysis protocol. During stance, heart rate decreased significantly from 83 ± 3 beats/min in ambient pressure to 73 ± 3 beats/min at 50 mmHg LBPP ( P < 0.05). During ambulation in LBPP at 3 mph (1.34 m/s), heart rate decreased significantly from 99 ± 4 beats/min in ambient pressure to 84 ± 2 beats/min at 50 mmHg LBPP ( P < 0.009). Blood pressure, brain oxygenation, blood flow velocity through the middle cerebral artery, and head skin microvascular blood flow did not change significantly with LBPP. As allowed by LBPP, ambulating at 60 and 20% body weight decreased ground reaction force ( P < 0.05), whereas knee and ankle sagittal ranges of motion remained unaffected. In conclusion, ambulating in LBPP has no adverse impact on the systemic and head cardiovascular parameters while producing significant unweighting and minimal alterations in gait kinematics. Therefore, ambulating within LBPP is potentially a new and safe rehabilitation tool for patients to reduce loads on lower body musculoskeletal structures while preserving gait mechanics.

Induction of three-dimensional assembly and increase in apoptosis of human endothelial cells by simulated microgravity: impact of vascular endothelial growth factor

Endothelial cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of many diseases and are highly sensitive to low gravity conditions. Using a three-dimensional random positioning machine (clinostat) we investigated effects of simulated weightlessness on the human EA.hy926 cell line (4, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h) and addressed the impact of exposure to VEGF (10 ng/ml). Simulated microgravity resulted in an increase in extracellular matrix proteins (ECMP) and altered cytoskeletal components such as microtubules (alpha-tubulin) and intermediate filaments (cytokeratin). Within the initial 4 h, both simulated microgravity and VEGF, alone, enhanced the expression of ECMP (collagen type I, fibronectin, osteopontin, laminin) and flk-1 protein. Synergistic effects between microgravity and VEGF were not seen. After 12 h, microgravity further enhanced all proteins mentioned above. Moreover, clinorotated endothelial cells showed morphological and biochemical signs of apoptosis after 4 h, which were further increased after 72 h. VEGF significantly attenuated apoptosis as demonstrated by DAPI staining, TUNEL flow cytometry and electron microscopy. Caspase-3, Bax, Fas, and 85-kDa apoptosis-related cleavage fragments were clearly reduced by VEGF. After 72 h, most surviving endothelial cells had assembled to three-dimensional tubular structures. Simulated weightlessness induced apoptosis and increased the amount of ECMP. VEGF develops a cell-protective influence on endothelial cells exposed to simulated microgravity.

Objective evaluation of changes in left ventricular and atrial volumes during parabolic flight using real-time three-dimensional echocardiography

We tested the feasibility of real-time three-dimensional (3D) echocardiographic (RT3DE) imaging to measure left heart volumes at different gravity during parabolic flight and studied the effects of lower body negative pressure (LBNP) as a countermeasure. Weightlessness-related changes in cardiac function have been previously studied during spaceflights using both 2D and 3D echocardiography. Several technical factors, such as inability to provide real-time analysis and the need for laborious endocardial definition, have limited its usefulness. RT3DE imaging overcomes these limitations by acquiring real-time pyramidal data sets encompassing the entire ventricle. RT3DE data sets were obtained (Philips 7500, X3) during breath hold in 16 unmedicated normal subjects in upright standing position at different gravity phases during parabolic flight (normogravity, 1 Gz; hypergravity, 1.8 Gz; microgravity, 0 Gz), with LBNP applied (−50 mmHg) at 0 Gz in selected parabolas. RT3DE imaging during parabolic flight was feasible in 14 of 16 subjects. Data were analyzed (Tomtec) to quantify left ventricular (LV) and atrial (LA) volumes at end diastole and end systole, which significantly decreased at 1.8 Gz and increased at 0 Gz. While ejection fraction did not change with gravity, stroke volume was reduced by 16% at 1.8 Gz and increased by 20% at 0 Gz, but it was not significantly different from 1 Gz values with LBNP. RT3DE during parabolic flight is feasible and provides the basis for accurate quantification of LV and LA volume changes with gravity. As LBNP counteracted the increase of LV and LA volumes caused by changes in venous return, it may be effectively used for preventing cardiac dilatation during 0 Gz.

Regional difference of blood flow in anesthetized rats during reduced gravity induced by parabolic flight

To examine a hypothesis that change in regional blood flow due to decreased hydrostatic pressure gradient and redistribution of blood during reduced gravity (rG) is different between organs, changes in cerebrocortical blood flow (CBF) and blood flow in the temporal muscle (MBF) with exposure to rG were measured in anesthetized rats in head-up tilt and flat positions during parabolic flight. Carotid arterial pressure (CAP), jugular venous pressure (JVP), and abdominal aortic pressure were also measured simultaneously. In the head-up tilt group, CBF increased by 15 +/- 3% within 3 s of entry into rG and rapidly recovered during rG. MBF also increased, but the change was significantly greater than that of CBF. JVP increased by 1.8 +/- 0.5 mmHg, probably due to loss of hydrostatic pressure gradient, since the measuring point of JVP was 2-3 cm above the hydrostatic indifference point. CAP and abdominal aortic pressure increased by 16.7 +/- 2 and 7.7 +/- 2 mmHg, respectively, compared with the 1-G condition. Muscle vascular resistance [(CAP-JVP)/MBF] decreased on entry into rG, but no significant change was observed in cerebrocortical vascular resistance [(CAP-JVP)/CBF]. In the flat group, no significant change was observed in all the variables. The results indicate that arteriolar vasodilatation occurs in the temporal muscle but not in the cerebral cortex. Thus the blood flow control mechanism at the onset of rG is different between intra- and extracranial organs.

Modulation of endothelial and smooth muscle function by bed rest and hypoenergetic, low-fat nutrition

Prolonged microgravity alters the regulation of the peripheral vasculature. The influence of reduced food intake, as often observed in astronauts, on vascular function is unclear. In a randomized, four-phase, crossover study, the effect of simulated microgravity (13 days of bed rest), energetic restriction (-25%, fat reduced), and their combination on endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilation was compared with ambulatory control conditions. Using venous occlusion plethysmography, cumulative intra-arterial dose-response curves to endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine) and -independent (sodium nitroprusside) vasodilators were constructed in 10 healthy male volunteers before and on day 13 of each of the four intervention periods. Bed rest combined with normoenergetic nutrition impaired the dose-response to acetylcholine (ANOVA, P = 0.004) but not to sodium nitroprusside, whereas hypoenergetic diet under ambulatory conditions improved responses to acetylcholine (P = 0.044) and sodium nitroprusside (P < 0.001). When bed rest was combined with hypoenergetic diet, acetylcholine responses did not change. Similarly, under control conditions, no change was observed. Individual changes in the total cholesterol-to-HDL ratio were correlated with changes in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle relaxation. In conclusion, short-term bed rest impairs endothelium-dependent arterial relaxation in humans. A hypoenergetic, low-fat diet modulates serum lipids, improves endothelium-dependent and -independent relaxation, and may antagonize the unfavorable effects of simulated microgravity on endothelial function.

Simulated hypogravity impairs the angiogenic response of endothelium by up-regulating apoptotic signals

Health hazards in astronauts are represented by cardiovascular problems and impaired bone healing. These disturbances are characterized by a common event, the loss of function by vascular endothelium, leading to impaired angiogenesis. We investigated whether the exposure of cultured endothelial cells to hypogravity condition could affect their behaviour in terms of functional activity, biochemical responses, morphology, and gene expression. Simulated hypogravity conditions for 72 h produced a reduction of cell number. Genomic analysis of endothelial cells exposed to hypogravity revealed that proapoptotic signals increased, while antiapoptotic and proliferation/survival genes were down-regulated by modelled low gravity. Activation of apoptosis was accompanied by morphological changes with mitochondrial disassembly and organelles/cytoplasmic NAD(P)H redistribution, as evidenced by autofluorescence analysis. In this condition cells were not able to respond to angiogenic stimuli in terms of migration and proliferation. Our study documents functional, morphological, and transcription alterations in vascular endothelium exposed to simulated low gravity conditions, thus providing insights on the occurrence of vascular tissue dysregulation in crewmen during prolonged space flights. Moreover, the alteration of vascular endothelium can intervene as a concause in other systemic effects, like bone remodelling, observed in weightlessness.

Morin sulphates/glucuronides enhance macrophage function in microgravity culture system

BACKGROUND

The immune system changes significantly in astronauts during and after space flight. Although the mechanism has not been defined, it is reasonable to begin developing effective countermeasures to the physiological consequences of spaceflight, especially immunosuppression. Many studies have been published about the effect of flavonoids on immune modulation. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop whether flavonoids could be the effective countermeasures to the immunosuppression caused by microgravity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used a rotating wall vessel 3D (three-dimensional) culture system which recreates some of the culture conditions that occur during microgravity to study the effects of microgravity on the function of macrophages and assess the modulating effects of flavonoids on microgravity-induced macrophage dysfunction.

RESULTS

We demonstrated 65% and 80% reduction in mitogen-induced nitric oxide and cytokine production of 3D-cultured macrophages, compared to conventional two-dimensional (2D)-cultured cells. Moreover, the microgravity-induced macrophage dysfunction was not restored by transferring cells from 3D to 2D culture. However, the addition of morin sulphates/glucuronides in 3D culture compensated for the loss of macrophage function.

CONCLUSION

The result presented here suggests for the first time that an immune-modulatory strategy using flavonoid supplements such as morin would benefit the health of astronauts.

Modelled microgravity does not modify the yield of chromosome aberrations induced by high-energy protons in human lymphocytes

The aim was to evaluate the effect of modelled microgravity on radiation-induced chromosome aberrations (CAs). G0 peripheral blood lymphocytes were exposed to 60 MeV protons or 250 kVp X-rays in the dose range 0-6 Gy, and allowed to repair DNA damage for 24 h under either normal gravity or microgravity modelled by the NASA-designed rotating-wall bioreactor. Cells were then stimulated to proliferate by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) under normal gravity conditions and prematurely condensed chromosomes were harvested after 48 h. CAs were scored in chromosomes 1 and 2 by fluorescence in-situ hybridization. Proliferation gravisensitivity was examined by cell growth curves and by morphological evaluation of mitogen-induced activation. Cell replication rounds were monitored by bromodeoxyuridine labelling. Modelled microgravity markedly reduced PHA-mediated lymphocyte blastogenesis and cell growth. However, no significant differences between normal gravity and modelled microgravity were found in the dose-response curves for the induction of aberrant cells or total interchromosomal exchange frequency. Rotating-wall bioreactor-based microgravity reproduced space-related alterations of mitogen stimulation in human lymphocytes but did not affect the yield of CAs induced by low-linear energy transfer radiation.

Influence of 90-day simulated microgravity on human tendon mechanical properties and the effect of resistive countermeasures

While microgravity exposure is known to cause deterioration of skeletal muscle performance, little is known regarding its effect on tendon structure and function. Hence, the aims of this study were to investigate the effects of simulated microgravity on the mechanical properties of human tendon and to assess the effectiveness of resistive countermeasures in preventing any detrimental effects. Eighteen men (aged 25–45 yr) underwent 90 days of bed rest: nine performed resistive exercise during this period (BREx group), and nine underwent bed rest only (BR group). Calf-raise and leg-press exercises were performed every third day using a gravity-independent flywheel device. Isometric plantar flexion contractions were performed by using a custom-built dynamometer, and ultrasound imaging was used to determine the tensile deformation of the gastrocnemius tendon during contraction. In the BR group, tendon stiffness estimated from the gradient of the tendon force-deformation relation decreased by 58% (preintervention: 124 ± 67 N/mm; postintervention: 52 ± 28 N/mm; P < 0.01), and the tendon Young's modulus decreased by 57% postintervention ( P < 0.01). In the BREx group, tendon stiffness decreased by 37% (preintervention: 136 ± 66 N/mm; postintervention: 86 ± 47 N/mm; P < 0.01), and the tendon Young's modulus decreased by 38% postintervention ( P < 0.01). The relative decline in tendon stiffness and Young's modulus was significantly ( P < 0.01) greater in the BR group compared with the BREx group. Unloading decreased gastrocnemius tendon stiffness due to a change in tendon material properties, and, although the exercise countermeasures did attenuate these effects, they did not completely prevent them. It is suggested that the total loading volume was not sufficient to completely prevent alterations in tendon mechanical properties.

Residual heterogeneity of intra- and interregional pulmonary perfusion in short-term microgravity

We hypothesized that the perfusion heterogeneity in the human, upright lung is determined by nongravitational more than gravitational factors. Twelve and six subjects were studied during two series of parabolic flights. We used cardiogenic oscillations of O2/SF6 as an indirect estimate of intraregional perfusion heterogeneity ( series 1) and phase IV amplitude (P4) as a indirect estimate of interregional perfusion heterogeneity ( series 2). A rebreathing-breath holding-expiration maneuver was performed. In flight, breath holding and expiration were performed either in microgravity (0 G) or in hypergravity. Controls were performed at normal gravity (1 G). In series 1, expiration was performed at 0 G. Cardiogenic oscillations of O2/SF6 were 19% lower when breath holding was performed at 0 G than when breath holding was performed at 1 G [means (SD): 1.7 (0.3) and 2.3 (0.6)% units] ( P = 0.044). When breath holding was performed at 1.8 G, values did not differ from 1-G control [2.6 (0.8)% units, P = 0.15], but they were 17% larger at 1.8 G than at 1 G. In series 2, expiration was performed at 1.7 G. P4 changed with gravity ( P < 0.001). When breath holding was performed at 0 G, P4 values were 45 (46)% of control. When breath holding was performed at 1.7 G, P4 values were 183 (101)% of control. We conclude that more than one-half of indexes of perfusion heterogeneity at 1 G are caused by nongravitational mechanisms.

Independent metabolic costs of supporting body weight and accelerating body mass during walking

The metabolic cost of walking is determined by many mechanical tasks, but the individual contribution of each task remains unclear. We hypothesized that the force generated to support body weight and the work performed to redirect and accelerate body mass each individually incur a significant metabolic cost during normal walking. To test our hypothesis, we measured changes in metabolic rate in response to combinations of simulated reduced gravity and added loading. We found that reducing body weight by simulating reduced gravity modestly decreased net metabolic rate. By calculating the metabolic cost per Newton of reduced body weight, we deduced that generating force to support body weight comprises approximately 28% of the metabolic cost of normal walking. Similar to previous loading studies, we found that adding both weight and mass increased net metabolic rate in more than direct proportion to load. However, when we added mass alone by using a combination of simulated reduced gravity and added load, net metabolic rate increased about one-half as much as when we added both weight and mass. By calculating the cost per kilogram of added mass, we deduced that the work performed on the center of mass comprises approximately 45% of the metabolic cost of normal walking. Our findings support the hypothesis that force and work each incur a significant metabolic cost. Specifically, the cost of performing work to redirect and accelerate the center of mass is almost twice as great as the cost of generating force to support body weight.

"Modeled microgravity" affects cell response to ionizing radiation and increases genomic damage

The aim of this work was to assess whether "modeled microgravity" affects cell response to ionizing radiation, increasing the risk associated with radiation exposure. Lymphoblastoid TK6 cells were irradiated with various doses of gamma rays and incubated for 24 h in a modeled microgravity environment obtained by the Rotating Wall Vessel bioreactor. Cell survival, induction of apoptosis and cell cycle alteration were compared in cells irradiated and then incubated in 1g or modeled microgravity conditions. Modulation of genomic damage induced by ionizing radiation was evaluated on the basis of HPRT mutant frequency and the micronucleus assay. A significant reduction in apoptotic cells was observed in cells incubated in modeled microgravity after gamma irradiation compared with cells maintained in 1g. Moreover, in irradiated cells, fewer G2-phase cells were found in modeled microgravity than in 1g, whereas more G1-phase cells were observed in modeled microgravity than in 1g. Genomic damage induced by ionizing radiation, i.e. frequency of HPRT mutants and micronucleated cells, increased more in cultures incubated in modeled microgravity than in 1g. Our results indicate that modeled microgravity incubation after irradiation affects cell response to ionizing radiation, reducing the level of radiation-induced apoptosis. As a consequence, modeled microgravity increases the frequency of damaged cells that survive after irradiation.

A 3D analysis of hindlimb motion during treadmill locomotion in rats after a 14-day episode of simulated microgravity

This study describes the effect of simulated microgravity in rat on kinematics and electromyographic activity during treadmill locomotion. The analysis was performed in rats submitted to 14 days of hindlimb unloading (HU), in rats submitted to hindlimb unloading and then authorized to recover for 7 days (REC), and in aged-matched control rats (CON). Movements of the right hindlimb were measured with a 3D-optical analyzer (SAGA3 system) and five small infrared-reflective disks positioned on the skin, recorded by three CCD cameras. Results showed that HU rats exhibited hyperextensions at the end of the stance phase. By contrast, during the major part of the step, the ankle was less extended than CON. Possible origins of the changes are discussed. This leads to the question of how important is sensory input in the regulation of the locomotor pattern after HU. Data obtained in REC animals showed that 1 week of recovery allowed the restoration of a good locomotor performance. However, the limb motion remained abnormal, and at contrary to HU rats: higher extension during the step, except at push-off when the limb was in hyperflexion. We concluded that simulated microgravity involves a dual adaptive process: a first one during unloading, and a second one during the period of recovery, which is not a simple return to initial characteristics of the locomotor pattern.

[Changes in voltage-dependent calcium channel currents of vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from small mesenteric arteries of simulated weightless rats]

The aim of the present study was to examine the changes in the function of voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDC) of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) isolated from small mesenteric arteries of rats subjected to 1-week or 4-week simulated weightlessness. The whole-cell recording mode was used to record current densities and Ba(2+) was used as charge carrier. Curves and fitting parameters describing steady-state activation and inactivation characteristics of VDC were thus obtained. The inward currents recorded from the VSMCs of small mesenteric arteries were mainly the Ba(2+) currents through the long-lasting type VDC (L-VDC). Compared with that of the control rats, the L-VDC current density of VSMCs from small mesenteric arteries showed a trend toward a decrease in the rats after 1-week , while a significant decrease was observed in the rats after 4-week simulated weightlessness. However, there were no significant differences in the opening and closing rates of L-VDCs, the position of steady-state activation and inactivation curves, and in the parameters, V(0.5) and k, between either of the two groups and its respective control group. The membrane capacitance and the reversal potential of the VSMCs from the small mesenteric arteries of rats after simulated weightlessness also showed no significant changes. These findings suggest that the decreased function of the L-VDC in hindquarter VSMCs might be one of the electrophysiological mechanisms that mediate the depressed vasoreactivity and atrophic change in hindquarter arteries during adaptation to simulated weightlessness in rats.

Effects of deafferentation on the size and myosin phenotype of muscle fibers on stretching of the rat soleus muscle in conditions of gravitational unloading

The aim of the present work was to assess the contributions of the reflex and local components to preventing decreases in the size and changes in the ratio of fibers containing the slow and fast isoforms of myosin heavy chains during chronic stretching of a postural muscle in rats in conditions of gravitational unloading. A unilateral surgical deafferentation method was used. The results demonstrated that deafferentation of the hindlimb had no effect on preventing reductions in muscle fiber size in conditions of chronic muscle stretching in conditions of gravitational unloading. The results obtained from these experiments did not support the hypothesis that the predominant contribution to preventing the development of atrophic changes comes from activation of muscle afferents in chronic stretching of the unloaded muscle. Deafferentation of both suspended animals and those with normal motor activity led to increases in the proportion of soleus muscle fibers containing the slow isoforms of myosin heavy chain.

Use of a microgravity organ culture dish system to demonstrate the signal dampening effects of modeled microgravity during T cell development

Recently, we have shown that exposure of fetal thymus organ cultures (FTOC) to modeled microgravity (MMG) using a clinostat with a microgravity organ culture dish system (MOCDS) blocks T cell development in a manner independent of steroid stress hormones present in vivo. In this study, we describe the development of the MOCDS system, as well as its use in attempting to understand the mechanism by which T cell development is inhibited in MMG. We show that after MMG exposure FTOC exhibited a significant reduction in CD4+CD8+ double positive (DP) cell production, but those DP cells which remained expressed higher levels of the T cell receptor (TCR) associated molecule, CD3. Interestingly, CD4-CD8- double negative (DN) cells expressed lower levels of CD3 on their surface. DN, as well as immature single positive (ISP) cells, also expressed reduced levels of the IL-7 receptor alpha chain (CD127). These changes in CD3 and CD127 expression were concomitantly associated with an increased production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. We were also able to show that addition of an exogenous signal (anti-CD3epsilon monoclonal antibody) to these cultures effectively mitigated the MMG-induced effects, suggesting that MMG-exposure causes a signal dampening effect on developing thymocytes.

Neuromuscular adaptations to spaceflight are specific to postural muscles

The effects of microgravity were determined in muscles of differing function and myofiber-type composition. Rats were assigned either to a 10-day spaceflight mission or to ground-based control conditions. Following the experimental period, hindlimb muscles were obtained from both groups. Cytofluorescent techniques were used to examine neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) from both slow- and fast-twitch fibers. Histochemical procedures were employed to assess myofiber profiles (size and type). Results indicate that microgravity did not alter NMJ structure or myofiber profile in the tibialis anterior, a predominantly fast-twitch, nonpostural muscle. Similarly, the NMJs and myofibers of deep regions of the gastrocnemius, a locomotor muscle possessing a mixed fiber population, were unaffected by spaceflight. In contrast, both myofibers and NMJs of the soleus-a postural muscle-demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) plasticity following exposure to spaceflight. Moreover, NMJs of both fast- and slow-twitch myofibers displayed similar remodeling in that muscle. Our findings suggest that the deleterious effects of microgravity are most apparent among postural muscles, and are manifested both in myofibers and their synapses.

Magnetic levitation-based Martian and Lunar gravity simulator

Missions to Mars will subject living specimens to a range of low gravity environments. Deleterious biological effects of prolonged exposure to Martian gravity (0.38 g), Lunar gravity (0.17 g), and microgravity are expected, but the mechanisms involved and potential for remedies are unknown. We are proposing the development of a facility that provides a simulated Martian and Lunar gravity environment for experiments on biological systems in a well controlled laboratory setting. The magnetic adjustable gravity simulator will employ intense, inhomogeneous magnetic fields to exert magnetic body forces on a specimen that oppose the body force of gravity. By adjusting the magnetic field, it is possible to continuously adjust the total body force acting on a specimen. The simulator system considered consists of a superconducting solenoid with a room temperature bore sufficiently large to accommodate small whole organisms, cell cultures, and gravity sensitive bio-molecular solutions. It will have good optical access so that the organisms can be viewed in situ. This facility will be valuable for experimental observations and public demonstrations of systems in simulated reduced gravity.

Active hexose correlated compound enhances the immune function of mice in the hindlimb-unloading model of spaceflight conditions

Hindlimb unloading is a ground-based model that simulates some of the aspects of spaceflight conditions, including lack of load bearing on hindlimbs and a fluid shift to the head. It has been shown that treatment with active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) restores resistance to infection in mice maintained under hindlimb-unloading conditions. The present study was designed to clarify the mechanisms by which AHCC enhances resistance to infection in this model. We hypothesized that oral administration of AHCC will enhance the function of the immune system, which could lead to the increased resistance to infection observed in this model. AHCC or the excipient was orally administered to mice, and the function of the immune system was assessed in spleen and peritoneal cells isolated from those groups. The results of the present study showed that administration of AHCC for 1 wk before and throughout the second day of the hindlimb-unloading period enhanced the function of the immune system assessed by spleen cell proliferation and cytokine production in spleens and nitric oxide and cytokine production in peritoneal cells. These findings suggest that AHCC can be used as a potent immunoenhancer, especially in cases in which the immune system is suppressed by any condition, including diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus infection and cancer.

Simulated Weightlessness in the Design and Exploitation of a NMR-Compatible Bioreactor

Mammalian cells cultured in simulated weightlessness take advantage of a favorable environment, experiencing low shear stress and reduced turbulence. NMR spectroscopy allows the on-line noninvasive monitoring of cell growth and metabolism. With this in mind, we developed a novel bioreactor that fits into a NMR instrument and in which the simulated weightlessness conditions are obtained by a suitable medium and a flow-lift suspension. In detail, the gravitational vector acting on cells is counterbalanced by the hydrodynamic thrusts created by a bottom-up spiral flow of a fluid having increased density. We validate its efficiency (a) by calculating the main physical parameters as relative velocity, shear stress, and oxygen transport, and (b) by comparing the experimental results of growing a cell culture in the proposed bioreactor with those obtained using an established simulated weightlessness system (rotating wall vessel, NASA). As a test study we focused on the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in terms of cell viability and organization of their cytoskeleton.

Daily short-period gravitation can prevent functional and structural changes in arteries of simulated microgravity rats

This study was designed to clarify whether simulated microgravity-induced differential adaptational changes in cerebral and hindlimb arteries could be prevented by daily short-period restoration of the normal distribution of transmural pressure across arterial vasculature by either dorsoventral or footward gravitational loading. Tail suspension (Sus) for 28 days was used to simulate cardiovascular deconditioning due to microgravity. Daily standing (STD) for 1, 2, or 4 h, or +45° head-up tilt (HUT) for 2 or 4 h was used to provide short-period dorsoventral or footward gravitational loading as countermeasure. Functional studies showed that Sus alone induced an enhancement and depression in vasoconstrictor responsiveness of basilar and femoral arterial rings, respectively, as previously reported. These differential functional alterations can be prevented by either of the two kinds of daily gravitational loading treatments. Surprisingly, daily STD for as short as 1 h was sufficient to prevent the differential functional changes that might occur due to Sus alone. In morphological studies, the effectiveness of daily 4-h HUT or 1-h STD in preventing the differential remodeling changes in the structure of basilar and anterior tibial arteries induced by Sus alone was examined by histomorphometry. The results showed that both the hypertrophic and atrophic changes that might occur, respectively, in cerebral and hindlimb arteries due to Sus alone were prevented not only by daily HUT for 4 h but also by daily STD even for 1 h. These data indicate that daily gravitational loading by STD for as short as 1 h is sufficient to prevent differential adaptational changes in function and structure of vessels in different anatomic regions induced by a medium-term simulated microgravity.

Effects of diet and exposure to hindlimb suspension on estrous cycling in Sprague-Dawley rats

Various factors can disrupt the female reproductive cycle resulting in subfertility. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether physiological changes associated with exposure to hypogravity disrupt reproductive cycles. The hindlimb suspension (HLS) model was used to simulate the major physiological effects of hypogravity in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Also, to determine whether diet may influence reproductive results, rats were fed purified American Institute of Nutrition (AIN)-93G or chow diet. Rats (n = 9-11/group) subjected to HLS had lengthened estrous cycles due to prolonged diestrus, indicating hypoestrogenism. Interestingly, HLS rats fed AIN-93G but not chow diet had significantly reduced time spent in estrus and decreased plasma estradiol. Attenuation of hypoestrogenism in the chow-fed rats suggested that diet provided an exogenous source of estrogen. The mechanism involved in the disruption of estrous cycling remains to be determined. HLS increased urinary corticosterone (CORT) levels during the initial 4 days of HLS, suggesting that physiological responses to acute stress may be a potential mechanism in the disruption of estrous cycles. Higher basal urinary CORT was observed in rats fed chow vs. AIN-93G diet. HLS resulted in increased urinary CORT. However, two-way ANOVA indicated a significant HLS effect (P < 0.001) but no effect of HLS x diet effect on urinary CORT levels, suggesting that estrogenic activity associated with the chow diet did not enhance the stress response. The results of this study indicate that HLS, diet, and the combination of HLS and diet influence estrous cycling. This has important implications for future reproductive success in the hypogravity environment of space.

[Adaptive responses of the secretory cardiomyocytes of the right atrium during simulation of the long-term and repeated gravity by antiorthostatic suspension of rats]

Reactive changes in right atrium cardiomyocytes during antiorthostatic tail suspension of rats commonly used to simulate low gravity have been studied by electron microscopy and morphometry. A 14 day suspension proved to increase contractile and secreting activities of cardiomyocytes. At the same time, signs of depleted activity are observed in some cells. Elongation of the experiment to 30 days leads to development of adaptive compensatory responses and increases their secreting capacity. A 30 day return to normal orthostatic position does not completely restores the structure and functioning of cardiomyocytes and leads to accumulation of internal secretion. A repeated 14 day suspension to a certain extent facilitates cardiomyocyte adaptation to altered conditions as compared to a single exposure; apparently, secretion release decreases while its production is activated.

Experimental study of rat beta islet cells cultured under simulated microgravity conditions

To observe the effects of simulated microgravity on beta islet cell culture, we have compared the survival rates and the insulin levels of the isolated rat islet cells cultured at the micro- and normal gravity conditions. The survival rates of the cells cultured were determined by acridine orange-propidium iodide double-staining on day 3, 7 and 14. The morphology of the cells was observed by electron microscopy. Insulin levels were measured by radioimmune assays. Our results show that the cell number cultured under the microgravity condition is significantly higher than that under the routine condition (P<0.01). Some tubular structure, possibly for the transport of nutrients, were formed intercellularly in the microgravity cultured group on day 7 after the cultivation shown by transmission electron microscopy. There were also abundant secretion particles and mitochondria in the cytoplasma of the cells. Scanning electron microscopy showed there were holes formed between each islets, possibly the connecting points with the nutrients transport tubules. The microgravity cultured group also has the higher insulin levels in the media when compared with the control group (P< 0.01). Our results indicate that microgravity cultivation of islet cells has advantages over the routine culture methods.

Inverse dynamic investigation of voluntary trunk movements in weightlessness: a new microgravity-specific strategy

Present investigation faces the question of quantitative assessment of exchanged forces and torques at the restraints during whole body posture exercises in long-term microgravity. Inverse dynamic modelling and total angular momentum at the ankle joint were used in order to reconstruct movement dynamics at the restraining point, represented by the ankle joint. The hypothesis is that the minimisation of the torques at the interface point assumes a key role in movement planning in 0 g. This hypothesis would respond to an optimisation of muscles activity, a minimisation of energy expenditure and therefore an accurate control of body movement. Results show that the 0 g movement strategy adopted ensures that the integral of the net ankle moment between the beginning and the end of the movement is zero. This expected mechanical constraint is not satisfied when 0 g movement dynamics is simulated using terrestrial kinematics. This accounts for a significant imposed change of movement strategy. Particularly, the efficient compensation of the inertial effects of the segments in terms of total angular momentum at the ankle joint was evidenced. These results explain the exaggerated axial synergies, observed on kinematics and which moved centre of mass (CM) backward from its already backward initial positioning, as a tool for enhancing the compensation and achieving the desired minimisation of the torques exchanges at the restraints.

Parasympathetic heart rate modulation during parabolic flights

During parabolic flight short periods of microgravity and hypergravity are created. These changes influence cardiovascular function differently according to posture. During the 29th parabolic flight campaign of the European Space Agency (ESA), the electrocardiogram (ECG) was recorded continuously in seven healthy volunteers in two positions (standing and supine). Five different phases were differentiated: 1 g (1 g=9.81 m/s(2)) before and after each parabola, 1.8 g at the ascending leg of the parabola (hypergravity), 0 g at the apex, 1.6 g at the descending leg (hypergravity). We assessed heart rate variability (HRV) by indices of temporal analysis [mean RR interval (meanRR), the standard deviation of the intervals (SDRR), and the square root of the mean squared differences of successive intervals (rMSSD) and coefficient of variation (CV)]. In the supine position no significant differences were shown between different gravity phases for all HRV indices. In the standing position the 0 g phase showed a tendency towards higher values of meanRR compared to the control and to the other phases ( p=NS). SDRR, rMSSD and CV were significantly higher compared to control ( p<0.05). Significantly higher values for meanRR in the supine position at 1 g and hypergravity ( p<0.05) were found when compared to standing. SDRR was significantly higher at 0 g in the standing position compared to supine [95 (44) ms vs. 50 (15) ms; p<0.05] and lower in other phases. rMSSD and CV showed the same trend ( p=NS). We confirm that, during parabolic flights, position matters for cardiovascular measurements. Time domain indices of HRV during different gravity phases showed: (1) higher vagal modulation of the autonomic nervous system in microgravity, when compared with normo- or hypergravity in standing subjects; and (2) no differences in supine subjects between different g phases.

Effects of strength training, using a gravity-independent exercise system, performed during 110 days of simulated space station confinement

The efficacy of a resistance exercise paradigm, using a gravity-independent flywheel principle, was examined in four men subjected to 110 days of confinement (simulation of flight of international crew on space station; SFINCSS-99). Subjects performed six upper- and lower-body exercises (calf raise, squat, back extension, seated row, lateral shoulder raise, biceps curl) 2-3 times weekly during the confinement. The exercise regimen consisted of four sets of ten repetitions of each exercise at estimated 80-100% of maximal effort. Work was measured and recorded in each exercise session. Maximal voluntary isometric force in the calf press, squat and back extension, was assessed at three different joint angles before and after confinement. Overall, the training load (work) increased in all subjects (range 16-108%) over the course of the intervention. Maximal voluntary isometric force was unchanged following confinement. Although the perceived level of strain and comfort varied between exercises and among individuals, the results of the present study suggest this resistance exercise regimen is effective in maintaining or even increasing performance and maximal force output during long-term confinement. These findings should be considered in the design of resistance exercise hardware and prescriptions to be employed on the International Space Station.

Inertial shear forces and the use of centrifuges in gravity research. What is the proper control?

Centrifuges are used for 1 x g controls in space flight microgravity experiments and in ground based research. Using centrifugation as a tool to generate an Earth like acceleration introduces unwanted inertial shear forces to the sample. Depending on the centrifuge and the geometry of the experiment hardware used these shear forces contribute significantly to the total force acting on the cells or tissues. The inertial shear force artifact should be dealt with for future experiment hardware development for Shuttle and the International Space Station (ISS) as well as for the interpretation of previous space-flight and on-ground research data.

Effects of periodic weight support in a simulated weightless environment in preventing bone demineralisation

Anti Orthostatic Hypokinetic posture in rats by tail suspension for 15 days (d) simulates the deconditioning effects of weightlessness on the weight bearing bones. The present study evaluates the effects of daily 4 hour (h) weight support (WS) during simulated weightlessness (S-W) in preventing these changes. Adult male albino rats were divided into three groups as (i) Control (CON, n = 12), (ii) Hind limb unweighing by tail suspension for 15 d (HU, n = 18), (iii) HU with daily 4 h WS (4 HRWS, n = 11). After 15 d tibia from all the animals were removed and subsequently dried, ashed and then calcium content of the bones were determined. HU showed reductions in the water content by 35.8%, organic matrix by 12.2% and calcium content by 33.4% of tibia. 4 h WS during S-W resulted in complete prevention of water loss and organic matrix loss and partial prevention of the loss of calcium content. Calcium content of tibia in 4 HRWS remained 15.2% less as compared to CON. These findings indicate that 4 h WS is partially successful in preventing the demineralisation effects of S-W on weight bearing bone tibia.

Simulated microgravity culture system for a 3-D carcinoma tissue model

An in vitro organotypic culture model is needed to understand the complexities of carcinoma tissue consisting of carcinoma cells, stromal cells, and extracellular matrices. We developed a new in vitro model of carcinoma tissue using a rotary cell culture system with four disposable vessels (RCCS-4D) that provides a simulated microgravity condition. Solid collagen gels containing human pancreatic carcinoma NOR-P1 cells and fibroblasts or minced human pancreatic carcinoma tissue were cultured under a simulated microgravity condition or a static Ig condition for seven days. NOR-P1 cultures subjected to the simulated microgravity condition showed greater numbers of mitotic, cycling (Ki-67-positive), nuclear factor-kappa B-activating cells, and a lower number of apoptotic cells than were shown by cultures subjected to the static Ig condition. In addition, human pancreatic carcinoma specimens cultured under the simulated microgravity condition maintained the heterogeneous composition and cellular activity (determined by the cycling cell ratio and mitotic index) of the original carcinoma tissue better than static culture conditions. This new 3-D rotary cell culture system with four disposal vessels may be useful for in vitro studies of complex pancreatic carcinoma tissue.

Space flight nutrition research: platforms and analogs

Conducting research during actual or simulated weightlessness is a challenging endeavor, where even the simplest activities may present significant challenges. This article reviews some of the potential obstacles associated with performing research during space flight and offers brief descriptions of current and previous space research platforms and ground-based analogs, including those for human, animal, and cell-based research. This review is intended to highlight the main issues of space flight research analogs and leave the specifics for each physiologic system for the other papers in this section.

Yohimbine administration prevents over-responsiveness to epinephrine induced by simulated microgravity

BACKGROUND

Simulated microgravity produces sustained inhibition of sympathoneural release, turnover, and synthesis of norepinephrine (NE) and hypersensitization of beta-adrenergic pathways. These changes may explain the orthostatic intolerance experienced by astronauts returning from spaceflights.

HYPOTHESIS

Chronic administration of yohimbine would prevent the increase of beta-adrenergic hypersensitivity to epinephrine (Epi) induced by simulated microgravity.

METHODS

Eight healthy young subjects received 8 mg of yohimbine (an antagonist of alpha2adrenoceptors) orally twice a day during the simulated microgravity achieved through -6 degrees head-down bed rest (HDBR). The catecholamine-induced lipolysis was studied on isolated fat cells from subcutaneous adipose tissue before HDBR and on the fifth day of HDBR. Epi was infused at three graded rates (0.01, 0.02, and 0.03 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1) for 40 min each) before and at the end of the HDBR period. The effects of Epi on the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity-assessed by plasma NE levels and spectral analysis of systolic BP and heart rate variability-and on plasma levels of glycerol, non-esterified fatty acids, glucose, and insulin and on energy expenditure were evaluated.

RESULTS

Under yohimbine treatment, HDBR failed to modify urinary NE excretion and spectral variability of systolic BP in the mid-frequency range. The beta- and alpha-adrenergic sensitivity of fat cells were not modified by HDBR nor were plasma NE levels and spectral variability of systolic BP induced by Epi infusion. No alteration of Epi-induced changes in heart rate and systolic and diastolic BPs were observed after HDBR. Epi-induced increases in plasma glucose, insulin, glycerol, and non-esterified fatty acid levels as well as energy expenditure were also unmodified by HDBR. Only the Epi-induced plasma lactate level was increased by HDBR.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that the increase in the effects of Epi induced during microgravity could be attenuated by chronic administration of yohimbine. An explanation for this effect could be SNS activation brought about by the alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist properties of yohimbine.

The effect of simulated weightlessness on hypobaric decompression sickness

BACKGROUND

A discrepancy exists between the incidence of ground-based decompression sickness (DCS) during simulated extravehicular activity (EVA) at hypobaric space suit pressure (20-40%) and crewmember reports during actual EVA (zero reports). This could be due to the effect of gravity during ground-based DCS studies.

HYPOTHESIS

At EVA suit pressures of 29.6 kPa (4.3 psia), there is no difference in the incidence of hypobaric DCS between a control group and group exposed to simulated weightlessness (supine body position).

METHODS

Male subjects were exposed to a hypobaric pressure of 29.6 kPa (4.3 psi) for up to 4 h. The control group (n = 26) pre-oxygenated for 60 min (first 10 min exercising) before hypobaric exposure and walking around in the altitude chamber. The test group (n = 39) remained supine for a 3 h prior to and during the 60-min pre-oxygenation (also including exercise) and at hypobaric pressure. DCS symptoms and venous gas emboli (VGE) at hypobaric pressure were registered.

RESULTS

DCS occurred in 42% in the control and in 44% in simulated weightlessness group (n.s.). The mean time for DCS to develop was 112 min (SD +/- 61) and 123 min (+/- 67), respectively. VGE occurred in 81% of the control group subjects and in 51% of the simulated weightlessness subjects (p = 0.02), while severe VGE occurred in 58% and 33%, respectively (p = 0.08). VGE started after 113 min (+/- 43) in the control and after 76 min (+/- 64) in the simulated weightlessness group.

CONCLUSIONS

No difference in incidence of DCS was shown between control and simulated weightlessness conditions. VGE occurred more frequently during the control condition with bubble-releasing arm and leg movements.

Effect of human head flexion on the control of peripheral blood flow in microgravity and in 1 g

This study evaluated, in six healthy subjects, whether head flexion, which stimulates the vestibular system and the tonic neck receptors, interferes with cardiovascular regulation. Arterial parameters were measured continuously using a pulsed Doppler ultrasound probe during parabolic flights with subjects either in the supine craned-head position (control) or in the supine anterior neck flexion bent-neck position. Exposure to 0 g induced a fluid shift towards the head (stroke volume +8%, P<0.05). Compared to the control situation the mean (SD) blood flow in the femoral artery decreased [ -10 (9)% vs +1 (10)%; P<0.05], and the ratio cerebral artery:femoral artery blood flow ( : ) increased [+8 (14)% vs -4 (7)%; P<0.05], in the bent-neck position. Thus, neck flexion without otolith loading (subject in 0 g) favoured cerebral perfusion during the exposure to 0 g. The return to 1 g, even in the supine position, induced a fluid shift towards the lower limbs. From 0 to 1 g, reduced less [ +6 (8)% vs -1 (8)%; P<0.05], and the : decreased more [-11 (9)% vs 0 (10)%; P<0.05], in the bent-neck position than in the control position. Thus the redistribution of peripheral blood flow in response to the fluid shift towards the legs was less efficient in the bent-neck position. In 0 g environment the passive flexion of the neck (neck receptor stimulation only) increased resistance in the femoral artery [ R(fa) +20 (21)%; P<0.05] and reduced the [-15(10)%; P<0.07] which increased the redistribution of flow towards the brain [; +12 (7)%; P<0.07]. This response was of lower amplitude when both otoliths and neck muscle were stimulated (neck flexion in 1 g) [ R(fa)+9 (7)%, P<0.05; -9 (12), NS; : 0 (12), NS]. We suggest that otolith and neck muscle stimulation (by neck flexion) trigger opposite vascular effects in response to a fluid shift towards the legs.

Endoscopic surgery in weightlessness: the investigation of basic principles for surgery in space

BACKGROUND

Performing a surgical procedure in weightlessness, also called 0-gravity (0-g), has been shown to be no more difficult than in a 1-g environment if the requirements for the restraint of the patient, operator, surgical hardware, are observed. The performance of laparoscopic and thorascopic procedures in weightlessness, if feasible, would offer several advantages over the performance of an open operation. Concerns about the feasibility of performing minimally invasive procedures in weightlessness have included impaired visualization from the absence of gravitational retraction of the bowel (laparoscopy) or thoracic organs (thoracoscopy) as well as obstruction and interference from floating debris such as blood, pus, and irrigation fluid. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of performing laparoscopic and thorascopic procedures and the degree of impaired surgical endoscopic visualization in weightlessness.

METHODS

From 1993 to 2000, laparoscopic and thorascopic procedures were performed on 10 anesthetized adult pigs weighing approximately 50 kg in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Microgravity Program using a modified KC-135 airplane. The parabolic simulation system for advanced life support was used in this project, and 20 to 40 parabolas were used for laparoscopic or thorascopic investigation, each containing approximately 30 s of 0-g alternating with 2-g pullouts. The animal model was restrained in the supine position on a floor-level Crew Medical Restraint System, and the abdominal cavity was insufflated with carbon dioxide. The intraabdominal and intrathoracic anatomy was visualized in the 1-g, 0-g, and 2-g periods of parabolic flight. Bleeding was created in the animals, and the behavior of the blood in the abdominal and thoracic cavities was observed. In the thoracic cavity, gas insufflation and mechanical retraction was used at times unilaterally to decrease pulmonary ventilation enough to increase the thoracic domain.

RESULTS

Visualization was improved in laparoscopy, from tethering of the bowel by the elastic mesentery, and from the strong tendency for debris and blood to adhere to the abdominal wall because of surface tension forces. The lack of adequate thoracic domain made thorascopy more difficult. Fluid in the thoracic cavity did not impair visualization because the fluid at 0-g does not loculate posteriorly, but disperses along the thoracic wall and mediastinal reflections.

CONCLUSIONS

Performing minimally invasive procedures instead of open surgical procedures in a weightless environment has theoretical advantages, especially in the ability to prevent cabin atmosphere contamination from surgical fluids (blood, pus, irrigation). Visualization will become more important and practical as the endoscopic hardware is miniaturized from its current form, as endoscopic technology becomes more advanced, and as more surgically capable medical crew officers are present in future long-duration space exploration missions.

[Effect of upright tilt on venous hemodynamics in rat after three-week tail suspension]

The aim of this work was to know if the venous tone measured in vivo in rat was decreased after 3-week tail suspension, a ground-based model to simulate the effects of microgravity. Arterial and venous pressure measurements during upright tilt did not show any cardiovascular deconditioning. A longer period of tail suspension appears to be necessary to induce changes in venous tone.

The use of suspension models and comparison with true weightlessness: "a resumé"

The topics for this workshop were selected to illustrate the manner in which particular physiological and biochemical phenomena can be assessed using specific animal model systems. Our speakers presented data which offer comparisons of experiments in earthside laboratories with experiments using subjects which have experienced weightlessness in response to orbital flight. In addition, there have been speculative assertions that the earthside experiments mimic or simulate responses which one may expect to see with exposure to micro or zero gravity conditions. The topics focused on at least three areas that appear to be amenable to earthside investigations; in addition, they serve as primary areas for flight experimentation. As the result of animal and human exposures to microgravity experienced during orbital space flight, there is ample evidence of pathophysiological functional and structural alterations in muscle, bone, cardiovascular and related body fluid shift responses. This Animal Model Workshop represents the first of a series of sessions planned for further meetings of the IUPS Commission on Gravitational Physiology.

Clinostats and bioreactors

The environment created on Earth within a clinostat or Rotating Wall Vessel (RWV) bioreactor is often referred to as "simulated microgravity". Both devices utilize constant reorientation to effectively nullify cumulative sedimentation of particles. Neither, however, can fully reproduce the concurrent lack of structural deformation, displacement of intercellular components and/or reduced mass transfer in the extracellular fluid that occur in actual weightlessness. Parameters including density, viscosity, and even container geometry must each be considered to determine the overall gravity-dependent effects produced by either a clinostat or the RWV bioreactor; in addition, the intended application of these two devices differs considerably. A state of particle "motionlessness" relative to the surrounding bulk fluid, which is nearly analogous to the extracellular environment encountered under weightless conditions, can theoretically be achieved through clinorotation. The RWV bioreactor, on the other hand, while similarly maintaining cells in suspension as they continually "fall" through the medium under 1 g conditions, can also purposefully induce a perfusion of nutrients to and waste from the culture. A clinostat, therefore, is typically used in an attempt to reproduce the quiescent, unstirred fluid conditions achievable on orbit; while the RWV bioreactor ideally creates a low shear, but necessarily mixed, fluid environment that is optimized for suspension culture and tissue growth. Other techniques for exploring altered inertial environments, such as freefall, neutral buoyancy and electromagnetic levitation, can also provide unique insight into how gravity affects biological systems. Ultimately, all underlying biophysical principles thought to give rise to gravity-dependent physiological responses must be identified and thoroughly examined in order to accurately interpret data from flight experiments or ground-based microgravity analogs.

Power spectral analysis imperfectly informs changes in sympathetic traffic during acute simulated microgravity

The purpose of this study was to investigate the value of frequency-domain analysis of autonomic rhythms as a simple, non-invasive technique for the study of immediate neural adjustments to simulated microgravity. We continuously recorded the electrocardiogram, non-invasive beat-by-beat arterial pressure, and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) during 5-min periods of controlled frequency breathing (15 breaths.min-1) with subjects (n = 10) in supine, and 10 degrees head-down tilt positions. We estimated changes in fluid volume with lower leg circumference measurements. We analyzed data in the frequency domain with fast Fourier-based power spectral analysis, and calculated the ratio of normalized low-to-respiratory frequency RR-interval spectral power as an index of sympathetic activity. Head-down tilt significantly reduced lower leg volume, MSNA, and MSNA oscillations at the respiratory frequency (p < 0.05). Head-down tilt did not change RR-interval, arterial pressure, or their power spectra (p > 0.05). We conclude that non-invasive frequency-domain estimates do not adequately reveal subtle changes in sympathetic traffic during acute, simulated microgravity.

Artificial gravity as a countermeasure in long-duration space flight

Long-duration exposure to weightlessness results in bone demineralization, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular deconditioning, altered sensory-motor control, and central nervous system reorganizations. Exercise countermeasures and body loading methods so far employed have failed to prevent these changes. A human mission to Mars might last 2 or 3 years and without effective countermeasures could result in dangerous levels of bone and muscle loss. Artificial gravity generated by rotation of an entire space vehicle or of an inner chamber could be used to prevent structural changes. Some of the physical characteristics of rotating environments are outlined along with their implications for human performance. Artificial gravity is the centripetal force generated in a rotating vehicle and is proportional to the product of the square of angular velocity and the radius of rotation. Thus, for a particular g-level, there is a tradeoff between velocity of rotation and radius. Increased radius is vastly more expensive to achieve than velocity, so it is important to know the highest rotation rates to which humans can adapt. Early studies suggested that 3 rpm might be the upper limit because movement control and orientation were disrupted at higher velocities and motion sickness and chronic fatigue were persistent problems. Recent studies, however, are showing that, if the terminal velocity is achieved over a series of gradual steps and many body movements are made at each dwell velocity, then full adaptation of head, arm, and leg movements is possible. Rotation rates as high as 7.5-10 rpm are likely feasible. An important feature of the new studies is that they provide compelling evidence that equilibrium point theories of movement control are inadequate. The central principles of equilibrium point theories lead to the equifinality prediction, which is violated by movements made in rotating reference frames.

[Analysis and improvement consideration of the current human experimental models of humoral regulation in microgravity]

The main differences between physiological effects of microgravity in spaceflight and simulated microgravity on humans appeared in the circulation of the low pressure side, in humoral and electrolyte metabolism. For a further understanding of the physiological effects of microgravity, some improvement of the current human experimental models are needed. It is possible to choose more adequate models closer to the situation in microgravity through measuring cardiovascular parameters, fluid regulation and renal excretion variables under head-up tilt (HUT) plus lower body positive pressure condition, or under head-down tilt (HDT) plus upper body negative pressure in various angles and pressure levels.

Effects of three days of dry immersion on muscle sympathetic nerve activity and arterial blood pressure in humans

The present study was performed to determine how sympathetic function is altered by simulated microgravity, dry immersion for 3 days, and to elucidate the mechanism of post-spaceflight orthostatic intolerance in humans. Six healthy men aged 21-36 years old participated in the study. Before and after the dry immersion, subjects performed head-up tilt (HUT) test to 30 degrees and 60 degrees (5 min each) with recordings of muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA, by microneurography), electrocardiogram, and arterial blood pressure (Finapres). Resting MSNA was increased after dry immersion from 23.7+/-3.2 to 40.9+/-3.0 bursts/min (p<0.005) without significant changes in resting heart rate (HR). MSNA responsiveness to orthostasis showed no significant difference but HR response was significantly augmented after dry immersion (p<0. 005). A significant diastolic blood pressure fall at 5th min of 60 degrees HUT was observed in five orthostatic tolerant subjects despite enough MSNA discharge after dry immersion. A subject suffered from presyncope at 2 min after 60 degrees HUT. He showed gradual blood pressure fall 10 s after 60 degrees HUT with initially well-maintained MSNA response and then with a gradually attenuated MSNA, followed by a sudden MSNA withdrawal and abrupt blood pressure drop. In conclusion, dry immersion increased MSNA without changing MSNA response to orthostasis, and resting HR, while increasing the HR response to orthostasis. Analyses of MSNA and blood pressure changes in orthostatic tolerant subjects and a subject with presyncope suggested that not only insufficient vasoconstriction to sympathetic stimuli, but also a central mechanism to induce a sympathetic withdrawal might play a role in the development of orthostatic intolerance after microgravity exposure.

Plasma myostatin-immunoreactive protein is increased after prolonged bed rest with low-dose T3 administration

It has been hypothesized that myostatin, a newly identified member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) family of proteins, acts as a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. Because bed rest induced muscle atrophy results from a decreased rate of muscle protein synthesis, we hypothesized that circulating levels of myostatin would be increased following prolonged bed rest. Twelve men (age, 35.8 +/- 4.6 yr; height, 175.7 +/- 2.3 cm; weight, 74.8 +/- 3.5 kg; mean +/- SE) were confined to bed for 25 days at 6 degrees head-down tilt while receiving triiodothyronine (T3; 50 micrograms/day) to accelerate protein loss. Total lean body and appendicular skeletal muscle mass were determined by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) before and after the bed rest period. Plasma myostatin-immunoreactive protein was measured in blood samples obtained after an overnight fast 5 days prior to, and on the 25th day of bed rest. Lean body mass decreased an average 2.2 kg (p < 0.0001). Appendicular skeletal muscle accounted for a majority of the lean body mass loss. On day 25 of bed rest, plasma myostatin-immunoreactive protein was 12% higher (p = 0.01) than measured at baseline. These data support the idea that myostatin regulates muscle growth in humans and that it may be a novel target for interventions aiming to reduce space flight induced muscle atrophy.

[The development of the syndrome of congestive parenchymatous organs under conditions of short-term hypokinesia]

Five series of head-down (-10 degrees to -30 degrees, up to 18 hr) tilt tests were performed with participation of 65 healthy male subjects. The ultrasonic technique was used to investigate the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney, and the main abdominal vessels, i.e. aorta in the abdomen and superior mesenteric artery, interior caval, portal, and splenic veins. A few hours of HDT already brought about a complex of load-deprivation reflexes (the syndrome of stagnant parenchymal organs) characterized by a prolonged venous congestion in the abdominal organs-vessels system, increases in sizes and blood filling of the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney, and the main arteries and veins in this hemodynamic region. This was the first time when increases in pancreas including its head, body and tail, and the abdominal blood vessels were quantified at the beginning of adaptation to HDT. The load-deprivation reflexes arising in this period were hemodynamic by nature. Considering the significant functional strain of the abdominal organs and vessels and particularly the limited control of excessive blood flow towards the pancreas and kidneys, there is a good reason to look into the ways to improve the existing countermeasures against the consequences of immobilization for humans both in general clinic and preventive medicine, and in short- and long-term space missions.