University of Waterloo
The Space Environment Causes Acceleration of Vascular Aging: Roles of Hypogravity, Nutrition and Radiation. — Astronauts are returning to Earth with a 35% reduction in elasticity, equivalent to more than 30-40 years of aging, in their carotid arteries. Inflight ultrasound imaging and blood sampling in baseline and during glucose tolerance testing will be conducted to monitor effects of hypogravity and increased radiation. The novel results that will come from this research can provide insight into mechanisms to protect vascular health in astronauts through appropriate exercise and, or nutritional modifications and give guidance to the population on Earth to adopt physically active lifestyles with appropriate nutrition that will enhance the quality of life as we age.