Title:
Integrated RNA Sequencing to Understand Skeletal Muscle Atrophy During Bed Rest
Agreement Number:
25HLSDM5
Agreement Value:
$74,475.00
Agreement Date:
Jul 10, 2025 - Jul 15, 2026
Description:
The loss of skeletal muscle mass and function is a major public health concern, reducing quality of life and independence for many individuals. Both on Earth and during spaceflight, muscle unloading leads to atrophy, loss of strength, and glucose intolerance. The project aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms driving muscle atrophy during unloading and inactivity, such as prolonged bed rest, using advanced RNA-sequencing technologies. Furthermore, the research team will also investigate the underlying protective effects of an exercise countermeasure. By performing long-read RNA-seq analyses on a well-characterized cohort of participants, they will generate valuable scientific knowledge that could pave the way for new treatments to prevent or combat muscle atrophy and weakness. These findings will not only help astronauts stay healthy during space missions but also benefit people on Earth who experience muscle loss due to immobilization, critical illnesses, or chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.
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:
Trois-Rivières, Quebec, CA G9A 5H7
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q2-00082
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
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.