Strategy for Research in Space Biology and Medicine in the New Century

Construction of the international space station, scheduled to start in late 1998, ushers in a new era for laboratory sciences in space. This is especially true for space life sciences, which include not only the use of low gravity as an experimental parameter to study fundamental biological processes but also the study of the serious physiological changes that occur in astronauts as they remain in space for increasingly longer missions.This book addresses both of these aspects and provides a comprehensive review of ground-based and space research in eleven disciplines, ranging from bone physiology to plant biology. It also offers detailed, prioritized recommendations for research during the next decade, which are expected to have a considerable impact on the direction of NASA's research program. The volume is also a valuable reference tool for space and life scientists.Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1 Introduction2 Cell Biology3 Developmental Biology4 Plants, Gravity, and Space5 Sensorimotor Integration6 Bone Physiology7 Skeletal Muscle8 Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems9 Endocrinology10 Immunology11 Radiation Hazards12 Behavioral Issues13 Setting Priorities in Research14 Programmatic and Policy IssuesAppendix A Acronyms and AbbreviationsAppendix B GlossaryAppendix C WorkshopsAppendix D Committee Biographies