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Coherence between Brain Cortical Function and Neurocognitive Performance during Changed Gravity Conditions
Published on: May 23, 2011
Central command and metaboreflex cardiovascular responses to sustained handgrip during microgravity.
Lars L Karlsson1, Stéphanie Montmerle, Malin Rohdin
1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. lars.karlsson@ki.se
Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology
|April 23, 2009
Summary
Spaceflight alters heart rate responses to exercise stimuli. Central command effects on heart rate decreased, but metaboreflex responses remained unchanged, suggesting microgravity impacts cardiovascular regulation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Space Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Understanding cardiovascular adaptations to microgravity is crucial for astronaut health.
- Previous research indicates altered autonomic responses during spaceflight.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of short-duration space flight on autonomic cardiovascular regulation.
- To differentiate responses to central command, mechanoreceptors, and metaboreceptors during microgravity.
Main Methods:
- Four subjects underwent tests including rest, sustained handgrip (SHG), and post-exercise circulatory occlusion (PECO) before and during space flight.
- Heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses were analyzed to assess autonomic control.
- Distinctions were made between central command/mechanoreceptor and metaboreceptor stimulation.
Main Results:
- The heart rate response to central command/mechanoreceptor stimulation was significantly reduced in-flight (P=0.01).
- Metaboreflex responses for both heart rate and mean arterial pressure were not significantly altered during space flight.
- The attenuated heart rate response was attributed to baroreflex adjustments.
Conclusions:
- Short-term space flight alters the heart rate response to central command, likely due to baroreflex modifications.
- Central processing of metaboreflex inputs appears unaffected by microgravity.
- Weight-bearing muscle metaboreflex inputs may be enhanced in microgravity.
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