The task consists of a literature review consolidating the evidence on the biological basis of emotional support and how IT relates to the levels and type of support system needed for individuals in…

The task consists of a literature review consolidating the evidence on the biological basis of emotional support and how IT relates to the levels and type of support system needed for individuals in confined and isolated environments. This review will include the evolutionary drive for humans to connect socially and the biological basis of human s need for social interaction (e.g., oxytocin and vasopressin systems). The literature review shall provide an understanding the biological evolution of emotions, including hormones and neurotransmitters associated with emotional support (e.g., oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine) among others, including possible SEX differences in the types of support systems. The investigator will characterize threats to the maintenance of these systems to the astronaut demographic under spaceflight constraints and consequences of these changes in the exploration mission environment. For example the pharmacodynamics that may result in changes to hormones related to emotional support (e.g., there is some evidence that bisphosphonates - a commonly used medication for maintaining bone health in astronauts - may suppress oxytocin). The literature review is expected to inform the extent to which an individual s biological composition and predispositions may be a factor important for selection, training as well as countermeasures that may maintain or enhance resiliency in the context of an exploration mission. The review shall also identify gold standard methods for monitoring these biological systems including how the identified measures and countermeasures can be implemented during exploration missions. The final report should include a summary of research recommendations. These recommendations should be listed in the priority. The results of this effort will help in planning and designing psychological support system requirements for missions. IT will also inform and possibly augment current ISS operations with the benefit to test proof of concept, feasibility and acceptability on the ISS, an analog for future exploration missions.