Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 12, 2026

Exploring the Effects of Spaceflight on Mouse Physiology using the Open Access NASA GeneLab Platform
Published on: January 13, 2019
Review of microgravity's impact on cardiovascular and nervous systems in space exploration
Asma A Alzaabi1,2, Fatema M Alzaabi3,4, Raqshan Wajih Siddiqui5,6
1RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. asma.binhumaidan@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Microgravity induces cardiovascular adaptations, including fluid shifts, cardiac remodeling, and autonomic changes. Acute responses involve increased preload and stroke volume, while chronic adaptations include cardiac atrophy, vascular remodeling, and autonomic impairment, contributing to post-flight orthostatic intolerance. These changes raise concerns for long-term astronaut health. Understanding these adaptations is crucial for developing countermeasures to mitigate spaceflight-related cardiovascular risks and may offer insights applicable to terrestrial medicine.
Related Concept Videos
Regulation of the Cardiovascular System
The regulation of the cardiovascular system involves the autonomic nervous system (ANS), baroreceptors, and chemoreceptors, ensuring that heart rate and blood pressure are appropriately modulated in response to varying physiological demands.
The ANS comprises two main divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The sympathetic nervous system enhances...
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's...
Overview of the Cardiovascular System
Heart
The heart is the central pump of the cardiovascular system that circulates blood throughout the body. It comprises two atria receiving the blood and two ventricles pumping blood out of the heart. Their rhythmic contractions, called heartbeats, ensure that blood flow remains continuous.
Blood Vessels
Blood...
Psychoneuroimmunology: Cardiovascular Disease
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
Neural Regulation of Blood Pressure
Baroreceptor Reflex
Baroreceptors, located in the carotid sinuses and aortic arch, detect changes in blood pressure. When blood pressure rises, these stretch-sensitive receptors...

