Mice on MARS: Simulated gravity prevents musculoskeletal deterioration in space

Japan takes its new centrifuge mouse habitat for a spin, showing for the first time that simulated gravity protects muscle and bone mass
Published in Physics
Mice on MARS: Simulated gravity prevents musculoskeletal deterioration in space
Like

Japanese scientists recently revealed a pioneering system for investigating how mice respond to microgravity and simulated gravity. Their Multiple Artificial-gravity Research System (MARS) has now provided the first evidence that simulated gravity could prevent musculoskeletal wastage during spaceflight.

The team, led by the Dai Shiba of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), created mouse habitats to fit JAXA’s gravity-simulating centrifuge aboard the ISS, and housing for the trips to/from earth. In MARS’ first mission, twelve mice were kept under conditions of microgravity or earth-like simulated gravity. After 35 days, the mice that experienced microgravity showed decreases in femur bone density and leg muscle mass. In comparison, the mice kept in simulated gravity maintained normal physical health.

This study, published in Scientific Reports, highlights MARS’ potential to benefit our understanding of how microgravity and simulated gravity interacts with life.

Please sign in or register for FREE

If you are a registered user on Research Communities by Springer Nature, please sign in