Echocardiographic Assessment of Cardiovascular Changes in Long Term Space Flight

Among the most serious of the risks identified by NASA in the area of cardiovascular alterations are serious dysrhythmias and the development of orthostatic intolerance. Prolonged exposure to microgravity may lead to a reduction in cardiac performance, particularly during times of stress and that undiagnosed cardiovascular disease may manifest during long missions. The PI and colleagues have worked closely with NASA and NSBRI over the last six years to optimize use of ultrasound in the space program as an investigative modality, addressing fundamental cardiovascular problems in need of countermeasures development. We propose the following specific aim:

To continue our ongoing study of the magnitude and predictors of LV mass regression following acute volume and pressure unloading as a ground-based analog for manned spaceflight. This work will continue to focus on patients undergoing aortic valve surgery, but exploit recent knowledge of the roles of cytokines and integrins involved in cardiac hypertrophy and regression as well as emerging technologies such as gene chip analysis.

This work will be closely focused on risks and critical questions identified by the Cardiovascular Alterations Team as described in the Bioastronautics Critical Path Road Map Baseline Document. If successful, this project will enhance assessment of cardiac function during long duration missions and potentially suggest cytokine promoters or signal transduction pathways that could be targeted for cardiac atrophy countermeasures. In addition, we will continue to provide the facilities of our Core laboratory for access by investigators throughout the NASA and NSBRI programs in need of assistance in acquiring or analyzing ultrasonic data.