MYOTENDINOUS AND NEUROMUSCULAR ADAPTATION TO LONG-TERM SPACEFLIGHT (SARCOLAB)
Research Area: Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems
Expedition(s): 29-ongoing
Principal Investigator(s): ● Paolo Cerretelli, National Research Council, IBFM, Milan, Italy
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
Myotendinous and Neuromuscular
Adaptation to Long-term Spaceflight
(Sarcolab) investigates the adaptation
and deterioration of the soleus, or calf
muscle, where it joins the Achilles
tendon, which links it to the heel and
carries loads from the entire body.
Muscle fiber samples are taken from
crew members before and after flight,
and analyzed for changes in structural
and chemical properties. MRI and
ultrasound tests and electrode
stimulation are conducted to help
assess muscle and tendon changes
caused by microgravity exposure.
EARTH BENEFITS
By improving the understanding of the mechanisms behind loss of muscle mass in space and
developing appropriate and effective countermeasures to any adverse effects, we can also
draw conclusions and get insights into certain muscular conditions on Earth. An adaptation of
countermeasures originally developed for in-space use by astronauts, or newly developed
ground-based countermeasures, could be used within rehabilitation of patients affected by
such medical conditions.
SPACE BENEFITS
By improving the understanding of the mechanisms behind loss of muscle mass in space, we in
turn can develop more effective countermeasures for the crews, whether pharmacological,
dietary or exercise-based in order to alleviate such adverse effects and hence improve/maintain
the health and performance of our astronauts in orbit.
RESULTS
No results are available yet as the investigation is still ongoing.
This investigation is ongoing and additional results are pending publication.
Ultrasound scan of subject’s calf muscle utilizing the Muscle
Atrophy Research and Exercise System. ESA image.