Application of the Kidney Essence-Sea of Marrow-Eye Axis theory,from the perspective of biomechanical imbalance,in spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome
Liu Shiyu
Zhang Yihang
Liu Xinmin
Zhang Ganlin
Abstract：Spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome(SANS)is among the predominant health risks of prolonged space missions,with biomechanical disequilibrium considered a pivotal mechanism driving its onset and progression.This biomechanical imbalance is intrinsically linked—structurally,physiologically,and pathologically—to the Kidney Essence-Sea of Marrow-Eye System Axis,a theoretical framework in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)describing the functional interconnection among the kidney,brain,and visual system.Thus,investigating this axis in the context of SANS from a biomechanical perspective may provide novel insights into prevention and management strategies.From the TCM standpoint,the pathogenesis of SANS reflects a functional dysharmony of the Kidney-Brain-Eye Axis,rooted in Shen Jing(Kidney Essence)deficiency,with insufficiency of the Sea of Marrow as a pivotal link,meridian obstruction as the pathway disturbance,and ocular system atony as the external manifestation.Therapeutic principles emphasize addressing both root causes and secondary manifestations,integrating tonification with dispersion,and combining internal and external modalities.Core treatment strategies include tonifying the kidney and replenishing essence,nourishing the marrow to enhance vision,dredging meridians to regulate Qi,and invigorating blood circulation while promoting diuresis to mitigate fluid retention.
Keywords：spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome(SANS)biomechanical imbalanceKidney Essence-Brain Marrow Sea-Optic System axisaerospace medicineTraditional Chinese Medicine
Publication Date：2025-08-25
Online Publishing Date：2025-09-26(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：5( 343-347 )