Muscle and Bone Metabolism

Training in simulated gravity with two participants on DLR´s short-arm human centrifuge
On DLR´s short-arm human centrifuge new training methods in simulated gravity are investigated as a potential countermeasure to maintain human health during long-term space missions and on Earth.

On the one hand, the human body is capable of outstanding performance, and on the other hand, prolonged physical inactivity leads to functional impairment of the skeletal and muscular system (deconditioning), metabolic disorders such as obesity and insulin resistance, and an increased risk of heart disease. These processes are not only problematic on Earth, but especially during space travel.

The department ‘Muscle and Bone Metabolism’ tries to identify the mechanisms of physical degradation processes at an early stage, to better understand them, and to develop appropriate countermeasures. Research into the biomechanics and mechanophysiology of muscles and bones is crucial to understanding the physiological effects of muscle contractions and physical activity. In-depth analyzes of organ-specific metabolism and its systemic interactions as well as the combination of this knowledge with genetic models form the basis for targeted interventions. Non-invasive methods and examinations, including on old people and patients, help to distinguish the proportion of immobilization-related changes from those primarily caused by age or illness.

From the knowledge gained, we derive countermeasures in the area of physical training and nutrition in order to maintain the physical fitness of astronauts but also to improve the health and quality of life of people in old age and people with various medical conditions. Our research follows a translational approach that extends from the cellular to the organismic level.

Working group

Translational metabolism research (Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Dominik Pesta)

  • Clinical and translational aspects of energy metabolism, tissue-specific mitochondrial function, euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp test, biospecimen management
  • Studies on the effect of changed gravity conditions (e.g. short-arm centrifugation) on performance and trainability

Teams

Mechanophysiology (Prof. Dr. med. Jörn Rittweger)

  • Biomechanical testing, tissue mechanics modeling, technology development, data management

Training and countermeasures (PD Dr. rer. nat. Jochen Zange)

  • Training studies, musculoskeletal imaging, development of training countermeasures

Contact

Prof. Dr. med. Jörn Rittweger

Head of Muscle and Bone Metabolism | Professor of Space Physiology, University of Cologne
German Aerospace Center
Institute of Aerospace Medicine
Muscle and Bone Metabolism
Linder Höhe, 51147 Cologne

Prof. Dr. Dominik Pesta

Deputy Head of Muscle and Bone Metabolism
German Aerospace Center
Institute of Aerospace Medicine
Muscle and Bone Metabolism
Linder Höhe, 51147 Cologne
Germany