[Low-gravitational changes in the bone system].

This review surveys reported data and observations made by the present authors concerning the effect of real and simulated hypogravity on bones of man and various animals. Bone biomechanics and mechanisms of osteodystrophic changes in hypogravity are discussed. Based on published data about bone metabolism regulation, the concept of bone formation and degradation in normal gravity and hypogravity is advanced. The conclusion is made that hypogravity-induced changes obey regulation at different levels, with local mechanisms being predominant. It is emphasized that a detailed investigation of every component of this process may become an important contribution to space and clinical medicine.