Mice in Bion-M 1 space mission: training and selection

Area of Science:

• Space biology
• Physiology
• Animal models

Background:

• Russia's space biomedical research program resumed with the Bion-M 1 biosatellite mission.
• Mice were the primary animal model for studying spaceflight effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate cellular and molecular mechanisms of physiological adaptation to microgravity.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive training and selection program for mice in space research.

Main Methods:

• Utilized male C57/BL6 mice flown on Bion-M 1 and ground controls.
• Combined in vivo (e.g., blood pressure) and in vitro measurements.
• Implemented group housing adaptation and specialized paste diet training.

Main Results:

• Mice showed significant physiological disadaptation upon return to Earth's gravity.
• The training program effectively prepared mice for spaceflight and welfare.

Conclusions:

• The developed training program was successful for mice welfare and research.
• Male mice are suitable subjects for space biomedical research.