Towards space tourism with a stress-related neurobiogenetic markers and countermeasures approach: a simulation with short-term Head-down Tilt bed rest
Progetto 4.1 Abstract Head Down Tilt (HDT) bed rest is widely used in space sciences as a spaceflight research analog on Earth to mimics stress-related
effects caused by microgravity. Here a short-term version of HDT bed rest will be used to simulate spaceflight effects over acute
stress-related behavioral responses and countermeasures with a neurobiogenetic approach. Although the understanding of the
effects of genetic variance and sex hormones on stress has grown, and multiple mechanisms have been found to affect brain
structure and function during stress, insight into the interactions between genetic, sex hormones and environmental factors remains
limited or null, especially with regards to microgravity-like effects and their countermeasures. Investigating these interactions is
crucial for obtaining a complete understanding of adaptation mechanisms leading to individual variations in stress-related responses
during space travel. The purpose of this project is thus to unravel the role of genetic variations in adaptation responses during
short-term HDT bed rest coupled with the study of gender-related differences. Moreover, a focus on countermeasures will be added
to show whether exercise and nutrition may modulate this interaction. In particular, we will dwell on the investigation of the effects
of two genetic variants (ADRA2B and CB1 respectively), and gender differences (e.g., via sex hormones) on different stress-related
behavioral responses such as cognitive-affective flexibility (indexed by Affective Working Memory performance), Interoceptive ability
(measured via heartbeat perception) and Perceived Stress pre-, during and post- HDT bed rest. In addition, the role of exercise
sessions and nutrition supplements (e.g., vitamin E) will be considered as potential compensation mechanisms when facing an acute
stress condition. Our project will be designed as a new start point for further investigation into the role of genetic variations and sex
hormones in adaptation to space and their interactions with exercise and nutrition. Given the use of a short-term HDT bed rest
condition, this neurobiogenetic behavioral investigation will ultimately have long range benefits to the selection and training of
potential new private space travelers.