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Physiological principles of vestibular function on earth and in spacePhysiological mechanisms underlying vestibular function have important implications for our ability to understand, predict, and modify balance processes during and after spaceflight. The microgravity environment of space provides many unique opportunities for studying the effects of changes in gravitoinertial force on structure and function of the vestibular system. Investigations of basic vestibular physiology and of changes in reflexes occurring as a consequence of exposure to microgravity have important implications for diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders in human beings. This report reviews physiological principles underlying control of vestibular processes on earth and in space. Information is presented from a functional perspective with emphasis on signals arising from labyrinthine receptors. Changes induced by microgravity in linear acceleration detected by the vestibulo-ocular reflexes. Alterations of the functional requirements for postural control in space are described. Areas of direct correlation between studies of vestibular reflexes in microgravity and vestibular disorders in human beings are discussed.
Document ID
20040172745
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Minor, L. B.
(The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, Maryland 21203-6402, United States)
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
March 1, 1998
Publication Information
Publication: Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Volume: 118
Issue: 3 Pt 2
ISSN: 0194-5998
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: R01 DC02390
CONTRACT_GRANT: P60 DC00979
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
Non-NASA Center
Review, Tutorial
NASA Discipline Neuroscience
Review

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