The impact of cardiovascular deconditioning in space: A review

Abstract

Cardiovascular deconditioning in microgravity presents a significant challenge for astronauts on extended space missions. As astronauts contend with microgravity complexities, such as altered fluid distribution, reduced cardiac output, and vascular adaptations, understanding the multifaceted influence of ANP becomes vital for developing precise interventions. The findings are from various research approaches, including human analog studies, murine models, aquatic models, and primate studies. Human analog studies, utilizing methods like bedrest head-down techniques, lower body positive pressure, and parabolic flights, offer valuable insights into potential countermeasures by simulating microgravity conditions. Further, the studies involving aquatic models and primates contribute additional layers of complexity, enriching our understanding of cardiovascular changes in biological systems more analogous to humans. Ground studies, integrating lower body positive pressure and Gz centrifugation, establish controlled environments to simulate gravity-like conditions, refining potential countermeasures. Space flight simulations subject individuals to varying gravitational forces, replicating real-world space mission conditions. Current countermeasures, including fluid intake protocols, negative pressure breathing maneuvers, and innovative technologies like the Countermeasure Evaluation and Validation System (CEVIS), are reviewed as cutting-edge approaches to address cardiovascular deconditioning. The forward-looking perspective envisions the future of cardiovascular deconditioning research, emphasizing the development of personalized interventions tailored to individual responses, advanced exercise protocols, and the exploration of novel technologies such as artificial gravity generators.