Eyeing the Stars: Unraveling Neuro-Ocular Effects of Microgravity on Space Travelers
Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Faculty
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
James Isaac Kay - Graduate Natalie Brattain - Junior Zechariah Frantz - Junior
Lead Presenter's Name
Natalie Brattain
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Christine Walck
Abstract
During spaceflight and exposure to microgravity environments, a fluid shift towards the head leads to heightened pressure on the brain, subsequently instigating changes in eye structure and vision. Emerging evidence suggests that the adaptation of the eye to these conditions may vary between men and women. Our objective is to investigate this phenomenon and determine whether the observed gender disparity in SANS prevalence is indeed attributable to inherent biological differences or if it is influenced by external factors such as mission selection criteria. We will employ a head-down tilt bed setup to simulate the effects of gravity on the human body. We will monitor vital signs and measure intraocular pressure (IOP) to evaluate physiological responses under various gravitational conditions. We will simulate microgravity conditions by tilting the bed to a negative 12-degree angle. Participants will maintain this position for up to one hour while we record their vital signs and conduct IOP measurements. At the one-hour mark, we will introduce lower body negative pressure (LBNP) equivalent to 22 mmHg to the participants' legs. The outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying SANS and help elucidate any gender differences in susceptibility to these effects.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Eyeing the Stars: Unraveling Neuro-Ocular Effects of Microgravity on Space Travelers
During spaceflight and exposure to microgravity environments, a fluid shift towards the head leads to heightened pressure on the brain, subsequently instigating changes in eye structure and vision. Emerging evidence suggests that the adaptation of the eye to these conditions may vary between men and women. Our objective is to investigate this phenomenon and determine whether the observed gender disparity in SANS prevalence is indeed attributable to inherent biological differences or if it is influenced by external factors such as mission selection criteria. We will employ a head-down tilt bed setup to simulate the effects of gravity on the human body. We will monitor vital signs and measure intraocular pressure (IOP) to evaluate physiological responses under various gravitational conditions. We will simulate microgravity conditions by tilting the bed to a negative 12-degree angle. Participants will maintain this position for up to one hour while we record their vital signs and conduct IOP measurements. At the one-hour mark, we will introduce lower body negative pressure (LBNP) equivalent to 22 mmHg to the participants' legs. The outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying SANS and help elucidate any gender differences in susceptibility to these effects.