Title:
Determining the mechanism of bone loss in space
Agreement Number:
19FATORB13
Agreement Value:
$99,990.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 27, 2020 - Mar 31, 2023
Description:
Studies on spaceflights lasting more than one year have shown that, due to weightlessness, astronauts on long missions may lose as much as twenty percent of their bone mass, which leads to a significant increase in risk of fracture and other complications.
Following the previous work and discovery in bone-resorbing osteoclasts and in optimizing bone cell culture in simulated microgravity, the present project aims to determine the molecular mechanism behind bone loss in astronauts. The main objectives include the grow of osteoclasts on bone surfaces in simulated microgravity, comparison of the osteoclasts grown in static culture to those in simulated microgravity, and the direct measurement of osteoclast morphology, ultrastructure, differentiation, fusion and bone-resorbing activity.
In addition to engaging trainees' in discovery-based microgravity research and developing novel bone cell micro carriers, this work will identify potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of osteoporosis in astronauts and in patients on Earth.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Toronto, Ontario, CA M5S 1A7
Reference Number:
003-2020-2021-Q1-04452
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
The amount allocated covers more than one fiscal year.
Late Disclosure
Recipient's Legal Name:
Governing Council of the University of Toronto
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.