A scientist in the United States aims to live underwater for 100 days to learn how the body responds to prolonged immersion. data reported by a major U.S. publication notes that this effort could advance a unique biological study.
At the University of South Florida, professor Joseph Dituri has embarked on an unconventional experiment. Since early March, he has been living beneath the sea under high-pressure conditions and intends to stay at depth for the full 100 days.
Dituri remarked on the project, saying they would explore biomedical engineering and biology while enjoying the process. this upbeat outlook frames the scientific work ahead [citation: University of South Florida].
Throughout the experiment a medical team will regularly descend to monitor Dituri’s health. Blood samples will be taken, ultrasounds performed, and electrocardiograms recorded. Dituri will also participate in psychosocial and psychological assessments to understand the effects of isolation and confinement over extended periods [citation: University of South Florida].
University officials indicate that findings from this experience could suggest that underwater living helps reduce aging related diseases. Preliminary observations from the study show that cells exposed to higher pressure doubled in number within five days, hinting at cellular responses worth deeper investigation [citation: University of South Florida].
The venture follows a prior milestone activity by the same project team, which celebrated a record associated with extended underwater duration and a synchronized underwater kiss as part of earlier demonstrations [citation: University of South Florida].