International Space Station mission includes Ottawa-based research

One of three astronauts aboard a Soyuz rocket, which blasted off this morning for the International Space Station, is planning to perform experiments on himself that could help rehab patients back on Earth.

Dr. Guy Trudel, director of the Bone and Joint Research Laboratoryat the University ofOttawa, is leading the bone marrow research from earth.

Many of the patients Trudel treats have decreased muscle and bone mass, as well as less strength, because of prolonged periods of immobility.

"This experience we had has lead us to look into astronauts," he said Tuesday on CBC radio's Ottawa Morning.

"When they're coming back from their space station stay for six months, they're actually presenting much of the same changes as our patients do."

Part of the mission

Over time, Trudel saidhe and a group of researchers focusing on the biology of rehabilitation have begun to "focus on the effect of microgravity or immobility on the bone marrow health."

The astronaut whom Trudel cannot name because of confidentiality issues will perform the experiments on himself, over the course of a 6-month mission.

"Astronauts are busy," said Trudel, "but it's part of their mandate, if you wish, to collaborate on various scientific experiments."

Participating in research has been more of a boonthan a bane for astronauts, said Trudel who points to new diet and exercise regimes which help "fight the effects" ofbeing in space.

"Nowadays, the astronauts come back from their stays much healthier than they did before."

Research tohelp variety of patients

Whether a patients immobility is caused by a long space flight or a serious accident,Trudelsaid he hopes this research will help ensure better treatment.

"We do at the rehab centre of the Ottawa Hospital treat people who have been in bed for a long time because of severe disease, be it a car crash, an industrial accident, severe burns or lots of time in intensive care."

The first research samples will head to Earth aboard a SpaceX capsule in May.