Neurophysiological adaptations to spaceflight and simulated microgravity. Issue 2 (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buoite Stella, Alex; Ajčević, Miloš; Furlanis, Giovanni; Manganotti, Paolo
• Is Part Of: Clinical neurophysiology. Volume 132:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 498
• Page End: 504
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: Neurophysiology -- Nerve -- Corticospinal excitability -- Space physiology -- Microgravity -- Bed rest; BOLD Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent -- EEG Electroencephalography -- ERD Event-Related Desynchronization -- ERP Event-Related Potentials -- fMRI Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging -- HDBR Head Down Bed Rest -- HRV Heart rate variability -- ICC Intrinsic Connectivity Contrast -- MEP Motor Evoked Potential -- RC Recruitment Curves -- SEP Somatosensory Evoked Potential -- TMS Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; Neurophysiology -- Periodicals; Electroencephalography -- Periodicals; Electromyography -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; 612.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2020.11.033
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1388-2457

Abstract

Highlights: Space and space analogues induce central and peripheral neurophysiological adaptations. Neurophysiological assessment is important in gravitational medicine. Findings may be translated into clinical practice for casting and immobilization. Abstract: Changes in physiological functions after spaceflight and simulated spaceflight involve several mechanisms. Microgravity is one of them and it can be partially reproduced with models, such as head down bed rest (HDBR). Yet, only a few studies have investigated in detail the complexity of neurophysiological systems and their integration to maintain homeostasis. Central nervous system changes have been studied both in their structural and functional component with advanced techniques, such as functional magnetic resonance (fMRI), showing the main involvement of the cerebellum, cortical sensorimotor, and somatosensory areas, as well as vestibular-related pathways. Analysis of electroencephalography (EEG) led to contrasting results, mainly due to the different factors affecting brain activity. The study of corticospinal excitability may enable a deeper understanding of countermeasures' effect, since greater excitability has been shown being correlated with better preservation of functions. Less is known about somatosensory evoked potentials and peripheral nerve function, yet they may be involved in a homeostatic mechanism fundamental to thermoregulation. Extending the knowledge of such alterations during simulated microgravity may be useful not only for space exploration, but for its application in clinical conditions and for life on Earth, as well.