Indian astronaut works on understanding how human body loses muscle in zero gravity
The research aims to uncover how spaceflight conditions disrupt skeletal muscle development and function. Using 3D skeletal muscle tissue chips, the study simulates the impact of microgravity on muscle cells, revealing troubling changes: muscle fibers become 25.8 per cent thinner and 23.7 per cent shorter, with a 66.3 per cent drop in force generation."These findings could unlock new therapeutic strategies," Isro officials had said earlier. The focus is on key molecular regulators like MyoD1 and MyoG, which play crucial roles in muscle cell growth and repair. Insights from this research could help astronauts maintain muscle strength during long-duration missions and inform treatments for age-related muscle loss and immobility-induced wasting back on Earth.Shukla's mission, part of the privately operated Axiom-4 (Ax-4) spaceflight, includes several other advanced experiments. advertisementA Telemetric Health AI initiative combines ultrasound scans with biometric data to monitor cardiovascular and balance systems in real time. Such systems could revolutionise remote diagnostics and care, particularly in underserved areas on Earth.Another standout project is PhotonGrav, which uses a brain-computer interface headset to track neural activity through cerebral blood flow. The research explores the possibility of thought-controlled spacecraft systems and may someday aid in neurorehabilitation therapies for stroke survivors or individuals with limited mobility.India's participation in Ax-4 is part of a broader international effort, with over 60 experiments from 31 countries. India, through Isro, has contributed seven carefully selected studies to the mission.Shukla's role symbolises India's deeper foray into human space research—one that merges space exploration with high-impact health innovation.As India sets its sights on future lunar and interplanetary missions, Shukla's work aboard the ISS could shape not only how astronauts survive space, but how millions of people thrive on Earth.- EndsTune InMust Watch
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