Systemic metabolic interaction

The focus of the Systemic Metabolic Interaction work group is on the research of adaptation mechanisms of human skeletal muscles in response to various physiological stress and environmental scenarios. The aim is to better understand the adaptation procedures of the muscles at the functional, structural and regulatory levels, taking into account the interactions with other systems such as the circulatory system and the energy and nutrient balance. One specific focus is also on a better understanding of the interactions between muscles and bones as a functional unit.

Mechanophsiology

Muscles and bones are living tissue that requires permanent stress. In weightlessness in space, the relief of muscles and bones quickly leads to tissue breakdown and thus to a risk for long-term missions. Bed rest studies have proven the effectiveness of certain training programs, but the training on the space station is still not 100% effective. A detailed understanding of the tissue mechanics of muscles and bones depending on gravity and physical strain is still lacking. The biomechanics group hopes to close this gap with targeted experiments using computer-supported models. The topic has many points of contact with research into the degradation processes of the musculoskeletal system in old age.

Training & Countermeasures

The Training & Countermeasures work group develops and tests targeted training interventions that should maintain, restore or even increase the functionality of the human locomotive system. Further methods focus on the cardiovascular system and the psychological and operational performance of humans in space.