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Published on: August 22, 2025
Static and dynamic vestibulo-cervico-ocular responses after prolonged exposure to microgravity
L N Kornilova1, S V Sagalovitch, V V Temnikova
1RF SRC-Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia. Kornil_imbp@pike.pike.ru
Summary
Astronauts returning from space missions experienced altered vestibular function, including increased eye movements and suppressed otolith responses, impacting balance and coordination during readaptation to Earth's gravity.
Area of Science:
- Space Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Vestibular System Research
Background:
- Prolonged microgravity exposure significantly impacts human physiological systems.
- The vestibular system, crucial for balance and spatial orientation, is particularly sensitive to altered gravitational environments.
- Understanding post-flight vestibular changes is vital for astronaut health and mission safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate vestibular function changes in astronauts after long-duration spaceflight.
- To assess static and dynamic vestibular responses, including otolith-cervico-ocular reflex and vestibulo-cervico-ocular responses.
- To analyze spontaneous oculomotor activity and vestibular reactivity during readaptation to Earth's gravity.
Main Methods:
- Studied 13 Russian cosmonauts on days 1-2, 4-5, and 8-9 post-flight after 126-195 days on the ISS.
- Utilized videooculography (VOG) and electrooculography (EOG) for simultaneous recording of eye movements.
- Assessed static torsional otolith-cervico-ocular reflex, dynamic vestibulo-cervico-ocular responses, vestibular reactivity, and spontaneous oculomotor activity.
Main Results:
- Increased spontaneous oculomotor activity (e.g., nystagmus, square wave jerks) observed with the head in a vertical position.
- Suppressed otolith function indicated by reduced or absent torsional eye counter-rolling during static head inclinations.
- Increased vestibular reactivity shown by a lowered threshold and heightened intensity of vestibular nystagmus during head yaw movements.
Conclusions:
- Post-microgravity exposure leads to significant alterations in vestibular function, including heightened oculomotor activity and impaired otolith responses.
- Readaptation to Earth's gravity involves complex vestibular changes, with suppressed otolith function often correlating with exaggerated vestibular reactivity.
- Individual variability in recovery patterns highlights the need for personalized readaptation strategies for astronauts.
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