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Space, Gravity and the Physiology of Aging: Parallel or Convergent Disciplines? A Mini-Review
Gerontology, 10/26/09

Vernikos J et al. – The abnormal physiology that manifests itself in healthy humans during their adaptation to the microgravity of space has all the features of accelerated aging. The mechano–skeletal and vestibulo–neuromuscular stimuli which are below threshold in space, result in an overall greater than 10–fold more rapid onset and time course of muscle and bone atrophy in space and the development of balance and coordination problems on return to Earth than occur with aging. Similarly, the loss of functional capacity of the cardiovascular system that results in space and continuous bed rest is over 10 times faster than in the course of aging. Deconditioning in space from gravity deprivation has brought attention to the medical hazards of deconditioning on Earth from gravity withdrawal as in sedentary aging.