NASA Pushes Back Against Bone and Muscle Loss in Astronauts

NASA signed two patent agreements with GRoK Technologies on Monday to help advance biotechnology innovations that could improve the health of astronauts working long-term at the International Space Station (ISS). Astronauts who live in space for months at a time often pay a price with reduced bone density and muscle mass.

NASA's new partnership with GRoK aims to develop breakthroughs in biomedicine, product testing and improve treatments for people suffering from musculoskeletal pain.

One study surveyed 13 astronauts who reported an average bone density loss of 14% during their stays at the ISS, according to Space.com.  Three astronauts lost 30% of their bone density — comparable to an elderly woman with osteoporosis. Read more...