Abstract
Microgravity, confinement, isolation, and immobilization are just some of the features astronauts have to cope with during space missions. Consequently, long-duration space travel can have detrimental effects on human physiology. Although research has focused on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal system in particular, the exact impact of spaceflight on the human central nervous system remains to be determined. Previous studies have reported psychological problems, cephalic fluid shifts, neurovestibular problems, and cognitive alterations, but there is paucity in the knowledge of the underlying neural substrates. Previous space analogue studies and preliminary spaceflight studies have shown an involvement of the cerebellum, cortical sensorimotor, and somatosensory areas and the vestibular pathways. Extending this knowledge is crucial, especially in view of long-duration interplanetary missions (e.g., Mars missions) and space tourism. In addition, the acquired insight could be relevant for vestibular patients, patients with neurodegenerative disorders, as well as the elderly population, coping with multisensory deficit syndromes, immobilization, and inactivity.
Highlights
Microgravity, confinement, isolation, and immobilization are just some of the features astronauts have to cope with during space missions
Half a century of manned spaceflight has taught us that space travel can have detrimental effects on human physiology
We will here give a concise overview of the current knowledge of the effect of microgravity on the brain, based on actual spaceflight as well as parabolic flight studies assessed with electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging, complemented with results from dry immersion and headdown bed rest space analogues
Summary
Half a century of manned spaceflight has taught us that space travel can have detrimental effects on human physiology. We will here give a concise overview of the current knowledge of the effect of microgravity on the brain, based on actual spaceflight as well as parabolic flight studies assessed with electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging, complemented with results from dry immersion and headdown bed rest space analogues. Only one study has reported MRI-based findings related to actual spaceflight This one case study has shown a decreased intrinsic (functional) connectivity in a vestibular-related cortical area, i.e. the right insula [15], underlying the effect of gravitational and vestibular deprivation. EEG studies have reported microgravity effects on (electro)cortical activity to be task-dependent Combining EEG and MRI would improve spatio-temporal resolution
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