My research takes place at the University of Florida's Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology. Within it is the Neuromotor Behavior Lab run by Dr. Rachael Seidler. I have had to pleasure to be a part of this lab for over 1 year and have committed nearly 580 hours as of May 2024.

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My project is focused on how elevated levels of carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) affect astronauts when they are up in the International Space Station. The consequences of a hypercapnic environment underscore negative alterations in crucial physiological processes in the central nervous system (CNS). Notably, in glymphatic exchange between the cerebrospinal fluid and interstitial fluid as well as in the development of ophthalmic abnormalities such as optic disc edema in astronauts, contributing to Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS). These effects translate to astronauts and can negatively affect their mental and physical health while aboard the ISS, leading NASA to put a focus toward understanding the glymphatic system and SANS. I will be utilizing physiological measures (heart rate, blood pressure, etc.), MRI scans, cognitive tests, and ultrasound images. With this knowledge, we will better understand how the brain’s neurocognitive and neurophysiological functions are affected by elevated CO2 levels.

 

I will gather participants for two eight-hour sessions to compare participants experiencing a hypercapnic environment against their typical ambient gas experienced on Earth. MRI scans, cognitive tests (Defense Automated Neurobehavioral Assessment (DANA)), and ultrasound imaging of the optic nerve will be analyzed in order to examine their glymphatic function and other processes within the CNS.  

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