ABSTRACT
This chapter provides description of techniques of on-ground microgravity simulation based on animal models such as hindlimb unloading, casting, and denervation. It is well known that exposure to microgravity leads to notable restrictions in general movement and mechanical loading in astronauts. One of the problems with spaceflight experiments is that opportunities to carry them out are expensive and rare. With ground-based models, there are no limitations related to number of animals. In the past, varieties of mammalian species, including monkeys, dogs, and rabbits, were used for research purposes. Nowadays, different immobilization techniques are widely used for the simulation of mechanical unloading. Immobilization itself can be combined with dietary or pharmaceutical intervention. Non-invasive methods such as casting, bandaging, and injection of Clostridium botulinum toxin have become more popular in the recent years.
