Optimizing human performance in extreme environments through precision medicine: From spaceflight to high-performance...

Area of Science:

• Extreme environment physiology
• Human performance optimization
• Molecular biology

Background:

• Individuals in extreme environments operate near human performance limits.
• Small margins for error impact execution, risk, safety, health, and survival.
• Enhanced preparation, training, fitness, and medical care are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a systems approach to precision medicine (PM) in extreme environments.
• To contextualize inputs, processes, and outputs for clinical practice.
• To focus on molecular dynamics while acknowledging physiologic and behavioral phenotypes.

Main Methods:

• Overview of a systems approach to PM.
• Focus on molecular dynamics and functionally characterized molecular networks.
• Demonstration of principles for guiding PM application.

Main Results:

• Precision medicine is uniquely suited for extreme operations due to molecular analysis depth.
• PM enables precision countermeasures matched to individual phenotypes and environments.
• Analysis of molecular network efficiency reveals incremental gains/losses impacting health and performance.

Conclusions:

• A systems approach to PM provides a framework for clinicians in extreme environments.
• Understanding molecular dynamics is key to optimizing health and performance.
• Practical considerations for molecular profiling and countermeasures are highlighted.