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Space analogue studies in AntarcticaMedical research has been carried out on the Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions (ANARE) for 50 years. As an extension of this program collaborative Australian/United States research on immunology, microbiology, psychology and remote medicine has produced important data and insight on how humans adapt to the stress of extreme isolation, confinement and the harsh environment of Antarctica. An outstanding analogue for the isolation and confinement of space missions (especially planetary outposts), ANARE has been used as an international research platform by Australia and the United States since 1993. Collaborative research has demonstrated a lowered responsiveness of the immune system under the isolation and confinement of Antarctic winter-over; a reduction of almost 50% in T cell proliferation to mitogen phytohaemogglutinin, as well as changes in latent herpesvirus states and the expansion of the polyclonal latent Epstein-Barr virus infected B cell populations. Although no clinically significant disease has been found to result from these immune changes, research is currently assessing the effects of psychological factors on the immune system. This and associated research performed to date and its relevance to both organisations is discussed, and comment made on possible extensions to the program in both medical and other fields.
Document ID
20040088983
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Lugg, D.
(Antarctic Division Kingston, Australia)
Shepanek, M.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
April 1, 1999
Publication Information
Publication: Acta astronautica
Volume: 44
Issue: 7-12
ISSN: 0094-5765
Subject Category
Behavioral Sciences
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Center HQS
NASA Discipline Space Human Factors

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