E F F E C T S O F M I C R O G R AV I T Y

ON BONE DENSITY

-Affan Nadeem Qazi

 MOTIVE FOR THE EQUIPMENT
 The rationale for pursuing the development of the "Microgravity Bone Density Stimulator" stems from
the fact that there is currently no commercially available device tailored to the intricacies of mitigating
bone density loss in astronauts during extended space missions. Existing equipment primarily focuses
on general physical exercise, failing to provide the specific mechanical loading required for osteogenesis

 By creating a device that introduces controlled vibrations to stimulate this process and replicate the
mechanical forces akin to weight-bearing activities on Earth, we address a critical aspect of bone health
unique to the microgravity environment
 INTRODUCTION

1. Space travelers have been known to experience severe bone loss at a rate of 1–1.5% per
month(M. Stavnichuk., et al(2020)), which is only partially responsive to non-
pharmacological countermeasures

2. Pharmacological treatments, such as anti-resorptive bisphosphonates, reduce bone loss in-

flight, but may interfere with the slow and often incomplete post-flight recovery . Thus,
microgravity-induced bone loss is a significant and unresolved health risk for space travelers

3. Weightlessness during space flight results in calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K deficiency,
increases urinary calcium excretion, decreases intestinal calcium absorption, and increases
serum calcium level
 REASON FOR LOSS OF BONE DENSITY

Increased
calcium release
Increased from bones Decreased 1,25
calcium dihydroxyvitaminD
excretion circulation
Decreased
parathyroid
hormones

Increased osteocyte
apoptosis

Impaired
osteoblast
Credits: Google photos function
A N A LY S I S O F D ATA
(M. Stavnichuk., et al(2020)
A N A LY S I S O F D ATA ( I N F L I G H T )
(M. Stavnichuk., et al(2020)
 CONCLUSIONS
 Spaceflight-related changes in bone density were skeletal-site-dependent, with bone gain
reported in the skull and cervical vertebrae, no change in the thorax and upper limbs, and
progressive bone loss in lumbar spines, pelvis, and lower limbs.

 Biochemical markers of bone resorption increased robustly within 11 [9,13] days to 113%
[108, 117] above pre-flight levels, while bone formation markers increased slowly at a rate of
6% [5, 7] per month. (M. Stavnichuk., et al(2020))

 Post-flight, resorption markers decreased exponentially at a rate that was faster after longer
duration missions, while formation markers increased linearly at 84% [39, 129] per month.
(M. Stavnichuk., et al(2020))
 DESIGN IDEA FOR A DEVICE
 Mechanical Loading: The device generates controlled vibrations that are transmitted to the astronaut's
body. These vibrations create mechanical loading on the bones, simulating the forces experienced
during weight-bearing activities on Earth.
 Osteogenesis Stimulation: Mechanical loading, as generated by the vibrations, triggers a biological
response in bone cells. Specifically, it stimulates a process known as osteogenesis, which is the
formation of new bone tissue
 Muscle Engagement: In addition to targeting bones, the vibrations also engage muscles. This helps
astronauts maintain muscle strength and coordination, which are essential for mobility and gait.

 Parts
Vibration Platform:
Foot Pads: (having sensors)
Adjustable Settings: (for vibration frequency and intensity).
Safety Harness: (To prevent unintended movement and ensure safety).
Monitoring System:
 R E S E A R C H PA P E R S R E F E R E N C E D

1. A systematic review and meta-analysis of bone loss in space travelers

2. Dissociation of Bone Resorption and Formation in Spaceflight and Simulated Microgravity:

Potential Role of Myokines and Osteokine.

3. Microgravity-Related Changes in Bone Density and Treatment Options: A Systematic

Review

Thankyou!!