American scientists concluded that visual impairment as a result of prolonged exposure to microgravity may be associated with changes in the volume of cerebrospinal fluid. The corresponding press release is published on the EurekAlert website!
vision as a result of prolonged exposure to microgravity may be associated with changes in the volume of cerebrospinal fluid. The corresponding press release is published on the EurekAlert! Website.
Yesterday The impact of microgravity conditions on the health of astronauts is a priority in research on the International Space Station (ISS). Previous studies have shown that staying in space can suppress the production of T-lymphocytes in the human body, lead to dermatitis, as well as visual impairment, in particular its acuity. At the same time, the reasons for such changes have not been sufficiently studied. So, until now it was believed that the deterioration of vision during long (about six months) flights into space can be associated with an excessive blood flow to the brain.
In the new work, scientists from the University of Miami examined participants in seven long-term and nine short-term missions to the ISS using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). According to the hypothesis, structural changes (flattening of the eyeballs, inflammation of the optic nerve) in the optic analyzer of astronauts are associated with cerebrospinal fluid, or cerebrospinal fluid. It is a clear liquid that circulates between the brain and spinal cord and prevents mechanical damage.
The results showed that, compared with participants in short-term missions, the astronauts from the experimental group after the flight significantly increased the volume of cerebrospinal fluid around the optic nerve and in the ventricles of the brain. At the same time, flattening of the eyeballs and inflammation of the optic nerve were observed. Changes in other structures, such as the volume of the gray and white matter of the brain, were not recorded. According to scientists, the data obtained will help in the development of preventive measures for such violations.
Details of the study will be presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America on November 28.
