Title:
Cutaneous sensitivity of the Human Foot Sole following 60 day Head Down Bed Rest with Countermeasures
Agreement Number:
23HLSHANA2
Agreement Value:
$199,536.00
Agreement Date:
Jul 9, 2023 - Sep 30, 2026
Description:
Decreased foot sole skin input significantly reduces lower limb muscle activity, affecting balance and navigation in our environment. The research team has shown that short duration space flight alters the sensitivity of these foot sole skin receptors. These changes were significantly correlated to deficits in balance control. The current Head Down Bed Rest model isolates the impact of body unloading as a mechanism for these sensory changes. The research team aims to understand how the unloading triggers changes in skin feedback and whether countermeasures will reduce or eliminate these changes. This work will have a major impact on astronaut health and mobility and has significant implications for healthy aging 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:
Guelph, Ontario, CA N1G 2W1
Reference Number:
003-2023-2024-Q2-00002
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Amendment Date
Jul 16, 2025
Recipient's Legal Name:
University of Guelph
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.