Computational modeling of heart failure in microgravity transitions

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Space Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Space tourism is expanding, increasing exposure of individuals with underlying health conditions to microgravity.
• Previous research on microgravity's physiological effects primarily studied healthy astronauts.
• The impact of microgravity on heart failure pathophysiology remains largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of microgravity exposure on cardiopulmonary function in patients with heart failure.
• To simulate microgravity's impact on heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a controlled, lumped mathematical model of the cardiopulmonary system.
• Simulated the transition into microgravity conditions.
• Analyzed hemodynamic responses in a heart failure model.

Main Results:

• Microgravity exposure led to increased cardiac output.
• Simulations showed an undesirable rise in left atrial pressure in heart failure patients.
• This indicates a heightened risk for pulmonary edema development.

Conclusions:

• Mathematical modeling provides insight into spaceflight risks for individuals with heart failure.
• Elevated left atrial pressure suggests potential complications during space missions.
• Findings highlight the need for further research into cardiovascular adaptation in space for diverse health profiles.