Responsible Center: NASA ARC
Grant Monitor: Griko, Yuri
Center Contact: 650-604-0519
Yuri.V.Griko@nasa.gov
Unique ID: 15529
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Solicitation / Funding Source: 2021 Space Biology NNH21ZDA001N-SBAS E.11: Animal Studies
Grant/Contract No.: 80NSSC23K0774
Project Type: Ground
Flight Program:
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No. of Post Docs: 1
No. of PhD Candidates: 0
No. of Master's Candidates: 0
No. of Bachelor's Candidates: 0
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No. of PhD Degrees: 1
No. of Master's Degrees: 0
No. of Bachelor's Degrees: 1
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| Space Biology Element: |
(1) Animal Biology: Vertebrate
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| Space Biology Cross-Element Discipline: |
(1) Musculoskeletal Biology
(2) Neurobiology
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| Space Biology Special Category: |
None |
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| Task Description: |
In this proposed work, we will evaluate the separate and combined effects of simulated space radiation and lunar gravity on the muscular, skeletal, and central nervous systems over the short- and longer-term. Moreover, we will assess whether these effects differ by biological sex. This work will be accomplished by studying male and female rats of an age (in rat years) comparable to that of the astronaut corps and exposing them simultaneously to simulated galactic cosmic rays (Galactic Cosmic Rays simulation: GCRsim) at Brookhaven National Laboratory and extended 20% partial weight-bearing to mimic lunar gravity. Animals will be assessed after completing 28 days of partial weight-bearing to assess short-term effects of these exposures and several months later to assess longer-term effects with recovery. This will include a variety of functional, molecular, and histological assessments assessing bone, muscle, and brain.
This project is aligned with recommendations listed in the Decadal Survey, specifically: AH2) Preservation and reversibility of bone structure and strength; AH5) understanding underlying mechanisms regulating net skeletal muscle protein balance and protein turnover during states of unloading and recovery; and AH9) Investigate the effects of prolonged reduced gravity on task completion; B2) Conduct integrated translational research in which long-duration missions are simulated specifically for the purpose of studying the interrelationships among individual functioning and cognitive performance.
Deliverables: This proposal will provide new data on the sex-specific effects of combined lunar gravity and galactic cosmic ray exposure on Central Nervous System (CNS) and musculoskeletal health to help us prepare more effectively for future extended lunar missions. |
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| Research Impact/Earth Benefits: |
This project will provide valuable insights the impact of reduced muscle loading (as would occur here on Earth when using crutches or a walker) on longer term motor function, including muscle, skeletal, and brain health and cognition. It will also evaluate the effects of radiation exposure on muscle, skeletal, and brain health and cognition, which could have relevance to patients being treated with radiotherapy for various cancers or being inadvertently exposed to radiation (in an industrial exposure or accident). Moreover, it will evaluate the effect of these two stressors together, which is certainly not an uncommon situation in patients who are debilitated while receiving radiotherapy for neoplastic disease. |
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