Metabolic and endocrine studies: the second manned Skylab mission

This study conducted on the crewmembers of Skylab 3 was designed to evaluate the endocrinological adaption resulting from extend exposure to a space flight environment by identifying changes in hormonal and associated fluid and electrolyte parameters. The three men served as their own controls and were on a constant dietary intake. Complete metabolic collections were performed beginning 21 d before the flight, continuing throughout the flight, for 18 d postflight. Changes in fluid and electrolyte balance have been correlated with weight loss, changes in the excretion of aldosterone, vasopressin, and fluid compartments. Inter-individual variability was demonstrated in most experimental indices measured; however, statistically significant patterns have emerged which include: decreases in body weight and ADH, increases in plasma renin activity, and elevations in urinary catecholamines, aldosterone and cortisol concentrations. Urinary sodium was increased in flight but potassium was only slightly changed. Total body exchangeable K was slightly decreased in all three of the crewmen. Total body water and extracellular fluid were decreased postflight in almost all cases. The measured changes are consistent with the prediction that a relative increase in thoracic blood volume upon transiton to the zero gravity environment is interpretated as a true volume expasion resulting in a net fluid loss. This, in association with other factors, ultimately results in a reduction in intravascular volume leading to an increase in renin and a secondary aldosteronism. Once these compensatory mechanisms are effective in reestablishing positive water balance, the crewemn are considered to be essentially adapted to the space environment. Although the physiological cost of this adaptation must reflect the electrolyte deficit and perhaps other factors, it is assumed that the compensated state is adequate for the demands of the environment; however, this new homeostatic set is not believed to be without physiological cost and could, except with proper precautions, reduce the functional reserve of exposed individuals.