Periodic Report Summary - OTOLITH (Theoretical and experimental study of vestibular otolith function towards treatment of associated equilibrium disorders)
This project encompasses the study of the otolith system which is the human gravity detector. Based on the combination of experts from Berlin, Kiev, Moscow and Antwerp, it was our goal to further elaborate on the reflexes generated by the otolith system during different conditions (rotation, centrifugation, dry immersion). The theoretical approach of Prof. Kondrachuk in combination with experimental data obtained in the lab of Prof. Clarke played a key role in the project outline. However, early and unforeseen retirement of Prof. Clarke from Berlin, without a replacement from his lab, in combination with an unexpected serious and non-resolving health problem of another key person of the project are 'force majeure' that jeopardised the whole project so much that the initial goals and work packages could not be achieved. Inevitably, the project under its current form had to be terminated. The topic however remains very unique and unravelled. A new project will be written and in due time submitted for funding.