Kilimanjaro Summit

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of oral nicotinamide riboside (NR) on altitude tolerance, team cohesion, cardiopulmonary function, sleep, and measures of aging.  This study also served as a Mars analogue mission, with further applications to military training and operations in hypobaric hypoxia field conditions.

LOCATION: Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

DATE: August 2016

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS:

Bruce Johnson, Ph.D., Mayo Clinic

Michael A Schmidt, Ph.D., Advanced Pattern Analysis & Countermeasures Group

EXPEDITION LEADER:

Conrad Anker

Measures

Test days:

  • Demographic/ Medical History and Personality Questionnaires
  • Echocardiogram
  • Lung Function Testing
  • Exhaled Nitric Oxide
  • Bioimpedance
  • Submaximal Exercise- Step test
  • Cognitive Function
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG), Photoplethysmography (PPG), respiratory belt and video camera assessed heart rates and respiratory rates (Phillips Vital Signs)
  • Gut Microbiome (30 days prior to expedition, baseline in Africa and before departure home)
  • Blood sampling

Daily:

  • Altitude Adaptation Questionnaire
  • Sleep Quality Assessment
  • Monitoring Day and Night Time Pulse Oximetry
  • Assessment of hydration
  • Tracking Body Composition
  • Tracking Energy Expenditure
  •  Team cohesion