NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
The lung in spaceThe lung is exquisitely sensitive to gravity, which induces gradients in ventilation, blood flow, and gas exchange. Studies of lungs in microgravity provide a means of elucidating the effects of gravity. They suggest a mechanism by which gravity serves to match ventilation to perfusion, making for a more efficient lung than anticipated. Despite predictions, lungs do not become edematous, and there is no disruption to, gas exchange in microgravity. Sleep disturbances in microgravity are not a result of respiratory-related events; obstructive sleep apnea is caused principally by the gravitational effects on the upper airways. In microgravity, lungs may be at greater risk to the effects of inhaled aerosols.
Document ID
20050240521
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Prisk, G. Kim
(University of California--San Diego 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0931, United States)
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
September 1, 2005
Publication Information
Publication: Clinics in chest medicine
Volume: 26
Issue: 3
ISSN: 0272-5231
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
Review
NASA Discipline Cardiopulmonary
Non-NASA Center

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available