SPECIAL SESSION: Following the Question: From Bedrest to Outer Space and Beyond

Description/Overview: Clinical observation often reveals observable patterns which when carefully described may lead to a continuous program of research over decades. The progression and development of findings from multiple studies involving the adaptation of skeletal muscle as well as brain trauma will be discussed, initially beginning with the effects of prolonged bedrest on the development atrophy and its reversal by exercise. These findings will then be applied to experiments during manned spaceflight and recovery of skeletal muscle and exercise capacity following return to gravity as well as to other clinical conditions. Recent studies of the influence of modern warfare and the toxic effects of military relevant heavy metals along with successful interventions to mitigate the secondary effects of blast induced traumatic brain injury will also be discussed.