[Microgravity and development of the mammals: problems results prospects].

Abstract The author reviews results of 20-yr in-space and laboratory investigations into the effects of hypergravity (2 g) and hypokinesia (immobilization, suspension, water deprivation). It was found out that the compensatory and adaptive potentials of mammalians (Wistar rats) in microgravity are sufficient to let proceed pregnancy, and activate anabolic processes associated with fetus growth and water-salt homeostasis maintenance. In a number of aspects effects of microgravity on the mother-fetus systems appear to be less significant than of various factors on Earth including the conventional models of microgravity. In all types of experiments, fetus state was determined by mother's well-being, compensatory and adaptive potentials. Under the disadvantageous conditions, survival of fetus cost dramatic shifts in mother's organism. Outlined is a long-range program of research on the problem and feasibility of an experiment in which mammalians will pass the overall life cycle in space flight.