Researchers at the Bar Harbor-based Jackson Laboratory say experiments involving so-called "mighty mice" conducted aboard the International Space Station earlier this year could help NASA find ways to prevent muscle and bone loss in astronauts on long space flights.Mighty mice have been genetically engineered by the Lab for increased muscle growth, and lack a gene for a specific protein. The study found that those mice maintained their muscle mass, while normal mice lost both muscle weight and bone density.
A third group of mice which received a compound that inhibits the protein saw an increase in muscle mass and bone density.
Jackson Lab officials say the month-long experiments might also lead to a better understanding of muscle degeneration in the elderly, or immobile patients.
Maine astronaut Jessica Meir was one of the scientists who worked on the experiment aboard the I.S.S.