Mar. 18, 2016

Microgravity helping the rehabilitation of bedridden patients
MARROW studies the mechanisms behind the effects of immobility. Its subjects are astronauts living on the International Space Station (ISS). On Earth, discoveries will be used to combat the effects of physical inactivity and improve the rehabilitation of bedridden patients, those with reduced mobility, and seniors.

Immobility and blood cell production
Microgravity in space, like prolonged bed rest on Earth, affects the bone marrow and the blood cells it produces. When mobility decreases, the adipose cells in the bone marrow increase, affecting the production of blood cells, including red and white blood cells.
• The decrease in red blood cells—known as anemia—leads to physical limitations, such as weakness and fatigue, and cognitive slowing. In the long term, it is associated with decreased quality of life and early death.
• One of the functions of white blood cells is to defend the body from infections. If their functioning is impaired, the body is more vulnerable to infections. Poor white blood cell function is also linked with increased sensitivity to radiation, which may have consequences for astronauts, who are exposed to high radiation levels in space.

Where do astronauts come in?
Ten astronauts will be taking part in the study. Before and after their respective flights, they will undergo magnetic resonance scans of the lower spine. In addition, before, during and after their stay on the ISS, blood and breath samples will be collected.