and quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and assays of biomarkers of bone metabolism. In
addition to pre- and post-flight measurements, these results are compared to data from 18
astronauts who flew ISS missions and who exercised using an early model resistance exercise
device called the interim resistance exercise device and 11 ISS astronauts who exercised using
the newer Advanced Resistance Exercise Device (ARED). Findings indicate that the ARED
provided significant lessening of bone loss compared with the older device, although some
post-flight decreases in the femur neck and hip remained. The combination of ARED and
bisphosphonate lessen the expected decline in essentially all indices of altered bone physiology
during spaceflight. Losses in bone mineral density of the spine, hip, and pelvis, as well as
measurements of fall and stance bone strength of the hip, bone resorption markers, and
urinary calcium show that the combination of exercise plus an antiresoptive drug may be useful
for protecting bone health during long-duration spaceflight.
PUBLICATION(S)
Leblanc AD, Matsumoto T, Jones JA, et al. Bisphosphonates as a supplement to exercise to
protect bone during long-duration spaceflight. Osteoporosis International. July
2013;27(7):2105-2114. doi: 10.1007/s00198-012-2243-z.
This investigation is ongoing and additional results are pending publication.