Skeletal muscle signaling response to sprint exercise in men and women

Reduced-exertion high-intensity interval training (REHIT): a feasible approach for improving health and fitness?

In recent years, research investigating the dose-response to sprint interval training (SIT) has provided evidence that the number and duration of repetitions in a SIT session can be reduced whilst preserving the beneficial health-related adaptations. Together this research has led to the development of protocols involving minimal doses of SIT: regularly performing just two or three 20-30 s all-out sprints in a 10 min training session has been shown to elicit beneficial metabolic and cardiovascular adaptations. These SIT protocols, which we originally termed "reduced-exertion high-intensity interval training" (or REHIT), have the potential to remove many of the common barriers associated with other SIT protocols, as well as with HIT and aerobic exercise. Here, we critically review the evidence on the efficacy, feasibility and acceptability, and effectiveness of REHIT for improving health and fitness.

AMPK and PGC-α following maximal and supramaximal exercise in men and women: a randomized cross-over study

We tested the hypothesis that AMPK activation and peroxisome proliferator gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α) expression are not augmented as exercise intensity (power output) increases from maximal to supramaximal intensities and conducted an exploratory analysis comparing AMPK activation and PGC-1α expression in males and females. Seventeen (n = 9 males; n = 8 females) recreationally active, healthy, young individuals volunteered to participate in the current study. Participants completed work matched interval exercise at 100% (Max) and 133% (Supra) of peak work rate (WRpeak). Intervals were 1 min in duration and participants were prescribed 6 and 8 intervals of Max and Supra, respectively, to equate external work across protocols. PGC-1α mRNA expression and activation of AMPK (p-ACC) were examined in muscle biopsy samples. Interval WR (watts; W), intensity (%WRpeak) and average HR (bpm), blood lactate (mmol/L) and rating of perceived exertion were all higher (all p < 0.05) in Supra. Fatigue was greater (p < 0.05) in Supra. PGC-1α mRNA expression significantly increased after exercise in Max (p < 0.01) and Supra (p < 0.01), but was not significantly different (p = 0.71) between intensities. A main effect of time (Pre - 0 h) (p < 0.01) was observed for p-ACC; however, no effect of intensity (p = 0.08) or interaction (p = 0.97) was observed. No significant effects of time (p = 0.05) intensity (p = 0.42), or interaction (p = 0.97) were observed for p-AMPK (Thr172). Exploratory sex analysis demonstrated a main effect of sex for p-ACC (greater p-ACC in males; p < 0.05) but not for p-AMPK or PGC-1α expression. Our results confirm that AMPK-PGC-1α signalling is not augmented following supramaximal exercise and provide novel data demonstrating a decrease in AMPK activation (p-ACC) in females compared to men. Trial registration: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/U7PX9.

Sex differences in insulin regulation of skeletal muscle glycogen synthase and changes during weight loss and exercise in adults

OBJECTIVE

The authors sought to understand sex differences in muscle metabolism in 73 older men and women.

METHODS

Body composition, VO2max, and insulin sensitivity (M) by 3-hour hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp with vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were measured.

RESULTS

Women had lower body weight, VO2max, and fat-free mass than men. Men had lower M, lower change (insulin minus basal) in muscle glycogen synthase (GS) activity, and lower change in AKT protein expression than women. M was associated with the change (insulin-basal) in GS activity and the change in AKT protein expression. Sex differences (n = 60) were tested with 6-month weight loss or 3×/week aerobic exercise training. The postintervention minus preintervention change (insulin-basal) (∆∆) in GS activity (fractional, independent, total) was higher in men than women in the weight loss group and ∆∆ in GS fractional activity was higher in women than men in the aerobic exercise group. In all participants, ∆∆ in GS fractional and independent activities was related to ∆∆ in AKT expression and glycogen content.

CONCLUSIONS

Sex differences in insulin sensitivity may be explained at the cellular muscle level, and to improve skeletal muscle insulin action in older adults, it may be necessary to recommend different behavioral strategies depending on the individual's sex.

Fast regulation of the NF-κB signalling pathway in human skeletal muscle revealed by high-intensity exercise and ischaemia at exhaustion: Role of oxygenation and metabolite accumulation

The NF-κB signalling pathway plays a critical role in inflammation, immunity, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and muscle metabolism. NF-κB is activated by extracellular signals and intracellular changes in Ca2+, Pi, H+, metabolites and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). However, it remains unknown how NF-κB signalling is activated during exercise and how metabolite accumulation and PO2 influence this process. Eleven active men performed incremental exercise to exhaustion (IE) in normoxia and hypoxia (PIO2:73 mmHg). Immediately after IE, the circulation of one leg was instantaneously occluded (300 mmHg). Muscle biopsies from m. vastus lateralis were taken before (Pre), and 10s (Post, occluded leg) and 60s after exercise from the occluded (Oc1m) and free circulation (FC1m) legs simultaneously together with femoral vein blood samples. NF-κB signalling was activated by exercise to exhaustion, with similar responses in normoxia and acute hypoxia, as reflected by the increase of p105, p50, IKKα, IκBβ and glutathione reductase (GR) protein levels, and the activation of the main kinases implicated, particularly IKKα and CaMKII δD, while IKKβ remained unchanged. Postexercise ischaemia maintained and stimulated further NF-κB signalling by impeding muscle reoxygenation. These changes were quickly reverted at the end of exercise when the muscles recovered with open circulation. Finally, we have shown that Thioredoxin 1 (Trx1) protein expression was reduced immediately after IE and after 1 min of occlusion while the protein expression levels of glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1) and thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) remained unchanged. These novel data demonstrate that exercising to exhaustion activates NF-κB signalling in human skeletal muscle and regulates the expression levels of antioxidant enzymes in human skeletal muscle. The fast regulation of NF-κB at exercise cessation has implications for the interpretation of published studies and the design of new experiments.

Factors Influencing AMPK Activation During Cycling Exercise: A Pooled Analysis and Meta-Regression

BACKGROUND

The 5' adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a cellular energy sensor that is activated by increases in the cellular AMP/adenosine diphosphate:adenosine triphosphate (ADP:ATP) ratios and plays a key role in metabolic adaptations to endurance training. The degree of AMPK activation during exercise can be influenced by many factors that impact on cellular energetics, including exercise intensity, exercise duration, muscle glycogen, fitness level, and nutrient availability. However, the relative importance of these factors for inducing AMPK activation remains unclear, and robust relationships between exercise-related variables and indices of AMPK activation have not been established.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this analysis was to (1) investigate correlations between factors influencing AMPK activation and the magnitude of change in AMPK activity during cycling exercise, (2) investigate correlations between commonly reported measures of AMPK activation (AMPK-α2 activity, phosphorylated (p)-AMPK, and p-acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (p-ACC), and (3) formulate linear regression models to determine the most important factors for AMPK activation during exercise.

METHODS

Data were pooled from 89 studies, including 982 participants (93.8% male, maximal oxygen consumption [[Formula: see text]] 51.9 ± 7.8 mL kg^-1 min^-1). Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to determine relationships between effect sizes for each of the primary outcome markers (AMPK-α2 activity, p-AMPK, p-ACC) and factors purported to influence AMPK signaling (muscle glycogen, carbohydrate ingestion, exercise duration and intensity, fitness level, and muscle metabolites). General linear mixed-effect models were used to examine which factors influenced AMPK activation.

RESULTS

Significant correlations (r = 0.19-0.55, p < .05) with AMPK activity were found between end-exercise muscle glycogen, exercise intensity, and muscle metabolites phosphocreatine, creatine, and free ADP. All markers of AMPK activation were significantly correlated, with the strongest relationship between AMPK-α2 activity and p-AMPK (r = 0.56, p < 0.001). The most important predictors of AMPK activation were the muscle metabolites and exercise intensity.

CONCLUSION

Muscle glycogen, fitness level, exercise intensity, and exercise duration each influence AMPK activity during exercise when all other factors are held constant. However, disrupting cellular energy charge is the most influential factor for AMPK activation during endurance exercise.

Sex Comparison of Knee Extensor Size, Strength, and Fatigue Adaptation to Sprint Interval Training

ABSTRACT

Bagley, L, Al-Shanti, N, Bradburn, S, Baig, O, Slevin, M, and McPhee, JS. Sex comparison of knee extensor size, strength, and fatigue adaptation to sprint interval training. J Strength Cond Res 35(1): 64-71, 2021-Regular sprint interval training (SIT) improves whole-body aerobic capacity and muscle oxidative potential, but very little is known about knee extensor anabolic or fatigue resistance adaptations, or whether effects are similar for men and women. The purpose of this study was to compare sex-related differences in knee extensor size, torque-velocity relationship, and fatigability adaptations to 12-week SIT. Sixteen men and 15 women (mean [SEM] age: 41 [±2.5] years) completed measurements of total body composition assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, quadriceps muscle cross-sectional area (CSAQ) assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, the knee extensor torque-velocity relationship (covering 0-240°·s-1) and fatigue resistance, which was measured as the decline in torque from the first to the last of 60 repeated concentric knee extensions performed at 180°·s-1. Sprint interval training consisted of 4 × 20-second sprints on a cycle ergometer set at an initial power output of 175% of power at V̇o2max, 3 times per week for 12 weeks. Quadriceps muscle cross-sectional area increased by 5% (p = 0.023) and fatigue resistance improved 4.8% (p = 0.048), with no sex differences in these adaptations (sex comparisons: p = 0.140 and p = 0.282, respectively). Knee extensor isometric and concentric torque was unaffected by SIT in both men and women (p > 0.05 for all velocities). Twelve-week SIT, totaling 4 minutes of very intense cycling per week, significantly increased fatigue resistance and CSAQ similarly in men and women, but did not significantly increase torque in men or women. These results suggest that SIT is a time-effective training modality for men and women to increase leg muscle size and fatigue resistance.

Physiological sex differences affect the integrative response to exercise: acute and chronic implications

NEW FINDINGS

What is the topic of this review? We review sex differences within physiological systems implicated in exercise performance; specifically, how they integrate to determine metabolic thresholds and fatigability. Thereafter, we discuss the implications that these sex differences might have for long-term adaptation to exercise. What advances does it highlight? The review collates evidence from recent physiological studies that have investigated sex as a biological variable, demonstrating that the physiological response to equivalent 'dosages' of exercise is not the same in males and females; thus, highlighting the need to research diversity in physiological responses to interventions.

ABSTRACT

The anatomical and physiological differences between males and females are thought to determine differences in the limits of human performance. The notion of studying sex as a biological variable has recently been emphasized in the biosciences as a vital step in enhancing human health. In this review, we contend that the effects of biological sex on acute and chronic responses must be studied and accounted for when prescribing aerobic exercise, much like any intervention targeting the optimization of physiological function. Emerging evidence suggests that the response of physiological systems to exercise differs between males and females, potentially mediating the beneficial effects in healthy and clinical populations. We highlight evidence that integrative metabolic thresholds during exercise are influenced by phenotypical sex differences throughout many physiological systems. Furthermore, we discuss evidence that female skeletal muscle is more resistant to fatigue elicited by equivalent dosages of high-intensity exercise. How the different acute responses affect the long-term trainability of males and females is considered, with discussion about tailoring exercise to the characteristics of the individual presented within the context of biological sex. Finally, we highlight the influence of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones on physiological responses to exercise in females. Sex is one of many mediating influences on the outcomes of exercise, and with careful experimental designs, physiologists can advance the collective understanding of diversity in physiology and optimize outcomes for both sexes.

Sex and fiber type independently influence AMPK, TBC1D1, and TBC1D4 at rest and during recovery from high-intensity exercise in humans

Women and men present different metabolic responses to exercise, yet whether this phenomenon results from differences in fiber type (FT) composition or other sex-specific factors remains unclear. Therefore, our aim was to examine the effects of sex and FT independently on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), Tre-2/BUB2/CDC1 domain family (TBC1D)1, and TBC1D4 in response to acute exercise. Segregated pools of myosin heavy chain (MHC) I and MHC IIa fibers were prepared from vastus lateralis biopsies of young trained men and women at rest and during recovery (0 min, 45 min, 90 min, or 180 min) from high-intensity interval exercise (6 × 1.5 min at 95% maximum oxygen uptake). In resting MHC I vs. IIa fibers, AMPKα2, AMPKγ3, and TBC1D1 were higher and TBC1D4 expression was lower in both sexes, along with higher phospho (p)-TBC1D1^Ser660 and lower p-TBC1D4^Thr642. Women expressed higher ACC than men in MHC IIa fibers and higher AMPKβ1, AMPKβ2, TBC1D1, and TBC1D4 in both FTs. Immediately after exercise, p-AMPKα^Thr172 increased only in MHC IIa fibers, whereas p-ACC^Ser221 increased in both FTs, with no change in p-TBC1D1^Ser660 or p-TBC1D4^Thr642. During recovery, delayed responses were observed for p-AMPKα^Thr172 in MHC I (45 min), p-TBC1D4^Thr642 in both FTs (45 min), and p-TBC1D1^Ser660 (180 min). FT-specific phosphorylation responses to exercise were similar between men and women. Data indicate that sex and FT independently influence expression of AMPK and its substrates. Thus failing to account for sex or FT may reduce accuracy and precision of metabolic protein measurements and conceal key findings.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This investigation is the first to compare muscle fiber type (FT)-specific analysis of proteins between the sexes, providing comprehensive data on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), Tre-2/BUB2/CDC1 domain family (TBC1D)1, and TBC1D4 before and in the hours following high-intensity interval exercise (HIIT). Expression and phosphorylation of specific AMPK isoforms, ACC, TBC1D1, and TBC1D4 were shown to be FT dependent, sex dependent, or both, and TBC1D1 showed an unexpected delay in FT-dependent phosphorylation in the time period following HIIT.

Molecular regulation of human skeletal muscle protein synthesis in response to exercise and nutrients: a compass for overcoming age-related anabolic resistance

Skeletal muscle mass, a strong predictor of longevity and health in humans, is determined by the balance of two cellular processes, muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and muscle protein breakdown. MPS seems to be particularly sensitive to changes in mechanical load and/or nutritional status; therefore, much research has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms that underpin this cellular process. Furthermore, older individuals display an attenuated MPS response to anabolic stimuli, termed anabolic resistance, which has a negative impact on muscle mass and function, as well as quality of life. Therefore, an understanding of which, if any, molecular mechanisms contribute to anabolic resistance of MPS is of vital importance in formulation of therapeutic interventions for such populations. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the mechanisms that underpin MPS, which are broadly divided into mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)-dependent, mTORC1-independent, and ribosomal biogenesis-related, and describes the evidence that shows how they are regulated by anabolic stimuli (exercise and/or nutrition) in healthy human skeletal muscle. This review also summarizes evidence regarding which of these mechanisms may be implicated in age-related skeletal muscle anabolic resistance and provides recommendations for future avenues of research that can expand our knowledge of this area.

High-Intensity Exercise and Mitochondrial Biogenesis: Current Controversies and Future Research Directions

It is well established that different types of exercise can provide a powerful stimulus for mitochondrial biogenesis. However, there are conflicting findings in the literature, and a consensus has not been reached regarding the efficacy of high-intensity exercise to promote mitochondrial biogenesis in humans. The purpose of this review is to examine current controversies in the field and to highlight some important methodological issues that need to be addressed to resolve existing conflicts.

Sex-based differences in resting MAPK, androgen, and glucocorticoid receptor phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle

PURPOSE

To determine if there is differential expression and phosphorylation of the androgen receptor (AR), glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in skeletal muscle at rest between males and females.

METHODS

Ten college-aged males (mean ± SD; age = 22 ± 2.4 yrs, ht = 175 ± 7 cm, body mass = 84.1 ± 11.8 kg) and ten females (mean ± SD; age = 20 ± 0.9 yrs; ht = 169 ± 7 cm; body mass = 67.1 ± 8.7 kg) reported to the laboratory following an overnight fast. Resting muscle biopsies were collected from the vastus lateralis and analyzed for total and phosphorylated GR (ser134, ser211, and ser226), total and phosphorylated AR (ser81, ser213, ser515, ser650), and total and phosphorylated MAPK (ERK, JNK, p38) via western blotting. A phosphorylation index (PI) was calculated to determine phosphorylated receptor expression after accounting for differences in total receptor content.

RESULTS

Males had more total AR compared to females (+42 ± 4%; p < 0.001). Females had higher phosphorylation of ARser81 (+87 ± 11%; p = 0.001) and ser515 (+55 ± 13%; p = 0.019). However, when the phosphorylated ratios were corrected for differences in total AR expression (i.e. our PI), the overall phosphorylation at these sites were similar between sexes (ser515, males = 100% vs females 92%; ser81, males = 100% vs females = 107%). pGRser134 was higher in males compared to females (+50 ± 15%; p = 0.016). Phospho-p38 was higher in females compared to males (+5050 ± 16%; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

At rest, ARs and GRs are differentially phosphorylated at some, but not all sites when comparing males and females. Differential regulation of phosphorylated AR, GR, and p38 between males and females may have implications for the degree of muscle adaptations observed following resistance or endurance training.

Acute Anaerobic Exercise Affects the Secretion of Asprosin, Irisin, and Other Cytokines - A Comparison Between Sexes

Objective: The new adipokine, which is asprosin, affects glucose release from the liver to the blood, and thus, influences exercise metabolism. This is the first study assessing whether single anaerobic exercise affects asprosin secretion in women and men.

Methods: 10 men and 10 women (aged 21.64 ± 1.22 and 22.64 ± 1.49, respectively) performed a single 20-s bicycle sprint. Blood samples were collected before exercise and in the 3′, 15′, 30′, and 60′ of recovery, and 24 h after competition.

Results: Only in women did asprosin (P = 0.001) (15′, 30′, 60′, and 24 h after exercise) and irisin (P < 0.001) (15′, 30′, and 60′) concentrations increase. Leptin, however, decreased (P = 0.001) at 3′, 15′, and 30′ in women. There was an increase in interleukin-6 (P < 0.001) at 3′, 15′, 30′, and 60′ of recovery in men, at 15′, 30′, 60′, and 24 h of recovery in women, along with a simultaneous decrease in interleukin-1β (P < 0.001) at 15′, 30′, and 60′ of recovery in men, and at 15′ and 30′ of recovery in women (r = -0.35, P < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between asprosin and adiponectin and a negative one between asprosin and leptin. The increase in irisin concentration at 30′ of recovery was positively correlated with the increase in asprosin concentration and percentage fat content, while being negatively correlated with total and lean body mass (LBM).

Conclusion: The single anaerobic effort induced an increase in asprosin and irisin secretion while reducing leptin secretion in women. Adipocytokine concentration changes are inter-related. Regardless of sex, anaerobic efforts induce anti-inflammatory effects.

Research into the Health Benefits of Sprint Interval Training Should Focus on Protocols with Fewer and Shorter Sprints

Over the past decade, it has been convincingly shown that regularly performing repeated brief supramaximal cycle sprints (sprint interval training [SIT]) is associated with aerobic adaptations and health benefits similar to or greater than with moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). SIT is often promoted as a time-efficient exercise strategy, but the most commonly studied SIT protocol (4–6 repeated 30-s Wingate sprints with 4 min recovery, here referred to as ‘classic’ SIT) takes up to approximately 30 min per session. Combined with high associated perceived exertion, this makes classic SIT unsuitable as an alternative/adjunct to current exercise recommendations involving MICT. However, there are no indications that the design of the classic SIT protocol has been based on considerations regarding the lowest number or shortest duration of sprints to optimise time efficiency while retaining the associated health benefits. In recent years, studies have shown that novel SIT protocols with both fewer and shorter sprints are efficacious at improving important risk factors of noncommunicable diseases in sedentary individuals, and provide health benefits that are no worse than those associated with classic SIT. These shorter/easier protocols have the potential to remove many of the common barriers to exercise in the general population. Thus, based on the evidence summarised in this current opinion paper, we propose that there is a need for a fundamental change in focus in SIT research in order to move away from further characterising the classic SIT protocol and towards establishing acceptable and effective protocols that involve minimal sprint durations and repetitions.

Superior Intrinsic Mitochondrial Respiration in Women Than in Men

Sexual dimorphism is apparent in humans, however, to date no studies have investigated mitochondrial function focusing on intrinsic mitochondrial respiration (i.e., mitochondrial respiration for a given amount of mitochondrial protein) and mitochondrial oxygen affinity (p50_mito) in relation to biological sex in human. A skeletal muscle biopsy was donated by nine active women, and ten men matched for maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max) and by nine endurance trained men. Intrinsic mitochondrial respiration, assessed in isolated mitochondria, was higher in women compared to men when activating complex I (CI_P) and complex I+II (CI+II_P) (p < 0.05), and was similar to trained men (CI_P, p = 0.053; CI+II_P, p = 0.066). Proton leak and p50_mito were higher in women compared to men independent of VO_2max. In conclusion, significant novel differences in mitochondrial oxidative function, intrinsic mitochondrial respiration and p50_mito exist between women and men. These findings may represent an adaptation in the oxygen cascade in women to optimize muscle oxygen uptake to compensate for a lower oxygen delivery during exercise.

Anaerobic Exercise-Induced Activation of Antioxidant Enzymes in the Blood of Women and Men

Objective: Physical exercise changes redox balance in the blood. The study aim is to determine gender-related differences in enzymatic antioxidant defense [superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] during the initial period following anaerobic exercise and 24 h after its completion.

Methods: Young, non-training participants (10 women and 10 men) performed a single anaerobic exercise, which was a 20-s maximal cycling sprint test. Blood was collected before and after completing the anaerobic exercise, i.e., after 3, 15, 30, and 60 min and after 24 h. Lactate concentration, and the superoxide dismutase, CAT, and GPx activity were determined. The results were adapted to the changes in plasma volume.

Results: Anaerobic exercise induced a significant increase in lactate concentration, similar among both sexes. Anaerobic exercise evokes identical changes in the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the blood plasma of women and men, which is dependent on anaerobic capacity. In the early phase of restitution, the activity of antioxidant enzymes decreases; 24 h after anaerobic exercise, GPx activity in the blood plasma of women and men is higher than before the exercise.

Conclusion: There are no gender-related differences concerning changes in plasma antioxidant activity after anaerobic exercise. Depending on the antioxidant enzyme, changes of activity differ in time after the end of the anaerobic exercise.

Skeletal muscle signaling, metabolism, and performance during sprint exercise in severe acute hypoxia after the ingestion of antioxidants

The aim of this study was to determine if reactive oxygen species (ROS) could play a role in blunting Thr¹⁷²-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-α phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle after sprint exercise in hypoxia and to elucidate the potential signaling mechanisms responsible for this response. Nine volunteers performed a single 30-s sprint (Wingate test) in two occasions while breathing hypoxic gas ([Formula: see text] = 75 mmHg): one after the ingestion of placebo and another following the intake of antioxidants (α-lipoic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E), with a randomized double-blind design. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained before, immediately after, and 30- and 120-min postsprint. Compared with the control condition, the ingestion of antioxidants resulted in lower plasma carbonylated proteins, attenuated elevation of the AMP-to-ATP molar ratio, and reduced glycolytic rate (P < 0.05) without significant effects on performance or V̇o₂ The ingestion of antioxidants did not alter the basal muscle signaling. Thr¹⁷²-AMPKα and Thr^184/187-transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) phosphorylation were not increased after the sprint regardless of the ingestion of antioxidants. Thr²⁸⁶-CaMKII phosphorylation was increased after the sprint, but this response was blunted by the antioxidants. Ser⁴⁸⁵-AMPKα1/Ser⁴⁹¹-AMPKα2 phosphorylation increased immediately after the sprints coincident with increased Akt phosphorylation. In summary, antioxidants attenuate the glycolytic response to sprint exercise in severe acute hypoxia and modify the muscle signaling response to exercise. Ser⁴⁸⁵-AMPKα1/Ser⁴⁹¹-AMPKα2 phosphorylation, a known mechanism of Thr¹⁷²-AMPKα phosphorylation inhibition, is increased immediately after sprint exercise in hypoxia, probably by a mechanism independent of ROS.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The glycolytic rate is increased during sprint exercise in severe acute hypoxia. This study showed that the ingestion of antioxidants before sprint exercise in severe acute hypoxia reduced the glycolytic rate and attenuated the increases of the AMP-to-ATP and the reduction of the NAD⁺-to-NADH.H⁺ ratios. This resulted in a modified muscle signaling response with a blunted Thr²⁸⁶-CaMKII but similar AMP-activated protein kinase phosphorylation responses in the sprints preceded by the ingestion of antioxidants.

Effect of maximal-intensity exercise on systemic nitro-oxidative stress in men and women

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to test the hypotheses: (1) there is a negative correlation between protein and lipid oxidative damage following maximal-intensity exercise, and oxygen uptake and work intensity (%VO2max) at the respiratory compensation point (RCP) in women and men; (2) nitro-oxidative stress following maximal-intensity exercise results from the intensification of anaerobic processes and muscle fibre micro-damage.

METHODS

Study participants comprised 20 women (21.34±1.57 years) and 20 men (21.97±1.41 years) who performed a treadmill incremental test (IT); VO2max: 45.08 ± 0.91 and 57.38 ± 1.22 mL kg-1 min-1 for women and men, respectively. The oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) concentration and creatine kinase (CK) as well as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity were measured in the blood serum, and total antioxidative capacity (TAC) and lactate concentration (Lac) were determined in blood plasma before and after IT.

RESULTS

After the IT, increases in ox-LDL, 3-NT, CK, and LDH were seen in both groups (P < 0.05). After the IT, an increase in the TAC was only observed in women (P < 0.05). The post-exercise-induced increase in Lac was significantly higher in men than in women. Only in the group of women was a positive correlation (P < 0.05) between the post-exercise increase in TAC and changes in CK activity and LDH found.

CONCLUSIONS

The gain of ox-LDL and 3-NT following maximal-intensity exercise is independent of VO2max, oxygen consumption and exercise intensity at RCP. This increase of ox-LDL and 3-NT is indicative of similar lipid and protein damage in women and men. A significant increase in TAC in women following maximal-intensity exercise is the result of muscle fibre micro-injuries.

The effect of exercise-intensity on skeletal muscle stress kinase and insulin protein signaling

Background

Stress and mitogen activated protein kinase (SAPK) signaling play an important role in glucose homeostasis and the physiological adaptation to exercise. However, the effects of acute high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) and sprint interval exercise (SIE) on activation of these signaling pathways are unclear.

Methods

Eight young and recreationally active adults performed a single cycling session of HIIE (5 x 4 minutes at 75% W_max), SIE (4 x 30 second Wingate sprints), and continuous moderate-intensity exercise work-matched to HIIE (CMIE; 30 minutes at 50% of W_max), separated by a minimum of 1 week. Skeletal muscle SAPK and insulin protein signaling were measured immediately, and 3 hours after exercise.

Results

SIE elicited greater skeletal muscle NF-κB p65 phosphorylation immediately after exercise (SIE: ~40%; HIIE: ~4%; CMIE; ~13%; p < 0.05) compared to HIIE and CMIE. AS160^Ser588 phosphorylation decreased immediately after HIIE (~-27%; p < 0.05), and decreased to the greatest extent immediately after SIE (~-60%; p < 0.05). Skeletal muscle JNK (~42%; p < 0.05) and p38 MAPK (~171%; p < 0.05) phosphorylation increased, and skeletal muscle Akt^Ser473 phosphorylation (~-32%; p < 0.05) decreased, to a similar extent immediately after all exercise protocols. AS160^Ser588 phosphorylation was similar to baseline three hours after SIE (~-12%; p > 0.05), remained lower 3 hours after HIIE (~-34%; p < 0.05), and decreased 3 hours after CMIE (~-33%; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Despite consisting of less total work than CMIE and HIIE, SIE proved to be an effective stimulus for the activation of stress protein kinase signaling pathways linked to exercise-mediated adaptation of skeletal muscle. Furthermore, post-exercise AS160^Ser588 phosphorylation decreased in an exercise-intensity and post-exercise time-course dependent manner.

Exercise training comprising of single 20-s cycle sprints does not provide a sufficient stimulus for improving maximal aerobic capacity in sedentary individuals

Purpose

Sprint interval training (SIT) provides a potent stimulus for improving maximal aerobic capacity (\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max), which is among the strongest markers for future cardiovascular health and premature mortality. Cycling-based SIT protocols involving six or more ‘all-out’ 30-s Wingate sprints per training session improve \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max, but we have recently demonstrated that similar improvements in \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max can be achieved with as few as two 20-s sprints. This suggests that the volume of sprint exercise has limited influence on subsequent training adaptations. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine whether a single 20-s cycle sprint per training session can provide a sufficient stimulus for improving \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max.

Methods

Thirty sedentary or recreationally active participants (10 men/20 women; mean ± SD age: 24 ± 6 years, BMI: 22.6 ± 4.0 kg m⁻², \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max: 33 ± 7 mL kg⁻¹ min⁻¹) were randomised to a training group or a no-intervention control group. Training involved three exercise sessions per week for 4 weeks, consisting of a single 20-s Wingate sprint (no warm-up or cool-down). \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max was determined prior to training and 3 days following the final training session.

Results

Mean \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max did not significantly change in the training group (2.15 ± 0.62 vs. 2.22 ± 0.64 L min⁻¹) or the control group (2.07 ± 0.69 vs. 2.08 ± 0.68 L min⁻¹; effect of time: P = 0.17; group × time interaction effect: P = 0.26).

Conclusion

Although we have previously demonstrated that regularly performing two repeated 20-s ‘all-out’ cycle sprints provides a sufficient training stimulus for a robust increase in \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${\dot{\text{V}}\text{O}}_{ 2} { \hbox{max} }$$\end{document}V˙O2max, our present study suggests that this is not the case when training sessions are limited to a single sprint.

Changes in Non-Enzymatic Antioxidants in the Blood Following Anaerobic Exercise in Men and Women

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare changes in total oxidative status (TOS), total antioxidative capacity (TAC) and the concentration of VitA, VitE, VitC, uric acid (UA), reduced (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in blood within 24 hours following anaerobic exercise (AnEx) among men and women.

Methods

10 women and 10 men performed a 20-second bicycle sprint (AnEx). Concentrations of oxidative stress indicators were measured before AnEx and 3, 15 and 30 minutes and 1 hour afterwards. UA, GSH and GSSH were also measured 24 hours after AnEx. Lactate and H⁺ concentrations were measured before and 3 minutes after AnEx.

Results

The increase in lactate and H⁺ concentrations following AnEx was similar in both sexes. Changes in the concentrations of all oxidative stress indicators were significant and did not differ between men and women. In both sexes, TOS, TAC, TOS/TAC and VitA and VitE concentrations were the highest 3 minutes, VitC concentration was the highest 30 minutes, and UA concentration was the highest 1 hour after AnEx. GSH concentration was significantly lower than the initial concentration from 15 minutes to 24 hour after AnEx. GSSG concentration was significantly higher, while the GSH/GSSG ratio was significantly lower than the initial values 1 hour and 24 hour after AnEx.

Conclusions

With similar changes in lactate and H⁺ concentrations, AnEx induces the same changes in TAC, TOS, TOS/TAC and non-enzymatic antioxidants of low molecular weight in men and women. Oxidative stress lasted at least 24 hours after AnEx.

Physiological and molecular responses to an acute bout of reduced-exertion high-intensity interval training (REHIT)

PURPOSE

We have previously shown that 6 weeks of reduced-exertion high-intensity interval training (REHIT) improves VO2max in sedentary men and women and insulin sensitivity in men. Here, we present two studies examining the acute physiological and molecular responses to REHIT.

METHODS

In Study 1, five men and six women (age: 26 ± 7 year, BMI: 23 ± 3 kg m(-2), VO2max: 51 ± 11 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) performed a single 10-min REHIT cycling session (60 W and two 20-s 'all-out' sprints), with vastus lateralis biopsies taken before and 0, 30, and 180 min post-exercise for analysis of glycogen content, phosphorylation of AMPK, p38 MAPK and ACC, and gene expression of PGC1α and GLUT4. In Study 2, eight men (21 ± 2 year; 25 ± 4 kg·m(-2); 39 ± 10 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) performed three trials (REHIT, 30-min cycling at 50 % of VO2max, and a resting control condition) in a randomised cross-over design. Expired air, venous blood samples, and subjective measures of appetite and fatigue were collected before and 0, 15, 30, and 90 min post-exercise.

RESULTS

Acutely, REHIT was associated with a decrease in muscle glycogen, increased ACC phosphorylation, and activation of PGC1α. When compared to aerobic exercise, changes in VO2, RER, plasma volume, and plasma lactate and ghrelin were significantly more pronounced with REHIT, whereas plasma glucose, NEFAs, PYY, and measures of appetite were unaffected.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these data demonstrate that REHIT is associated with a pronounced disturbance of physiological homeostasis and associated activation of signalling pathways, which together may help explain previously observed adaptations once considered exclusive to aerobic exercise.

Variable inflammation and intramuscular STAT3 phosphorylation and myeloperoxidase levels after downhill running

Individual responses in creatine kinase (CK) release after eccentric exercise are divergent. This study aimed to identify whether this could be related to selected humoral or intramuscular inflammatory factors. Twenty-three subjects were divided into non-exercising (n = 5) and downhill run (DHR; n = 18) groups (12 × 5 min, 10% decline at 15 km/h). Blood samples were analyzed for white blood cell differential count, CK, myoglobin, tumor necrosis factor-α, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-10. Muscle biopsies were analyzed for signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3), IκBα, and myeloperoxidase (MPO). DHR participants clustered as early (DHR1) recovery, biphasic response (DHR2), or classic delayed exaggerated CK response (DHR3), with a delayed CK peak (4784 ± 1496 U/L) on day 4. For DHR1 and DHR2, CK peaked on day 1 (DHR1: 1198 ± 837 U/L) or on day 1 and day 4 (DHR2: 1583 ± 448 U/L; 1878 ± 427 U/L), respectively. Immediately post-DHR, IL-6 increased in DHR2 and DHR3 whereas IL-10 increased in all DHR groups. STAT3 signaling increased for DHR1 and DHR2 at 4 h, but MPO at day 2 only in DHR2. Objective cluster analysis uncovered a group of subjects with a characteristic biphasic CK release after DHR. The second elevation was related to their early cytokine response. The results provide evidence that early responses following eccentric exercise are indicative of later variation.

Critical role for free radicals on sprint exercise-induced CaMKII and AMPKα phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle

The extremely high energy demand elicited by sprint exercise is satisfied by an increase in O2 consumption combined with a high glycolytic rate, leading to a marked lactate accumulation, increased AMP-to-ATP ratio, and reduced NAD(+)/NADH.H(+) and muscle pH, which are accompanied by marked Thr(172) AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-α phosphorylation during the recovery period by a mechanism not fully understood. To determine the role played by reactive nitrogen and oxygen species (RNOS) on Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation in response to cycling sprint exercise, nine voluntary participants performed a single 30-s sprint (Wingate test) on two occasions: one 2 h after the ingestion of placebo and another after the intake of antioxidants (α-lipoic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E) in a double-blind design. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained before, immediately postsprint, and 30 and 120 min postsprint. Performance and muscle metabolism were similar during both sprints. The NAD(+)-to-NADH.H(+) ratio was similarly reduced (84%) and the AMP-to-ATP ratio was similarly increased (×21-fold) immediately after the sprints. Thr(286) Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylations were increased after the control sprint (with placebo) but not when the sprints were preceded by the ingestion of antioxidants. Ser(485)-AMPKα1/Ser(491)-AMPKα2 phosphorylation, a known inhibitory mechanism of Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation, was increased only with antioxidant ingestion. In conclusion, RNOS play a crucial role in AMPK-mediated signaling after sprint exercise in human skeletal muscle. Antioxidant ingestion 2 h before sprint exercise abrogates the Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation response observed after the ingestion of placebo by reducing CaMKII and increasing Ser(485)-AMPKα1/Ser(491)-AMPKα2 phosphorylation. Sprint performance, muscle metabolism, and AMP-to-ATP and NAD(+)-to-NADH.H(+) ratios are not affected by the acute ingestion of antioxidants.

Changes in spatial memory and BDNF expression to simultaneous dietary restriction and forced exercise

Previous literature suggests that learning and memory formation can be influenced by diet and exercise. In the current study, we investigated the combined effects of forced swimming exercise (FSE) and every other day fasting (EODF) on spatial memory formation and on the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of Wistar male rats. The radial arm water maze (RAWM) paradigm was used to assess changes in learning and memory formation, whereas ELISA assay was used to measure BDNF protein levels. The FSE and/or EODF were simultaneously instituted for 6 weeks. Results show that FSE improved learning, short-term as well as long-term memory formation, and significantly increased BDNF protein in the hippocampus (p<0.05). However, EODF had no effect on either spatial learning and memory formation or the levels of hippocamapal BDNF protein (p>0.05). In addition, EODF did not modulate beneficial effect of swimming exercise on cognitive function (p>0.05). Thus exercise enhanced, while EODF did not affect spatial learning and memory formation.

Increased oxidative stress and anaerobic energy release, but blunted Thr172-AMPKα phosphorylation, in response to sprint exercise in severe acute hypoxia in humans

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a major mediator of the exercise response and a molecular target to improve insulin sensitivity. To determine if the anaerobic component of the exercise response, which is exaggerated when sprint is performed in severe acute hypoxia, influences sprint exercise-elicited Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation, 10 volunteers performed a single 30-s sprint (Wingate test) in normoxia and in severe acute hypoxia (inspired Po(2): 75 mmHg). Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained before and immediately after 30 and 120 min postsprint. Mean power output and O(2) consumption were 6% and 37%, respectively, lower in hypoxia than in normoxia. O(2) deficit and muscle lactate accumulation were greater in hypoxia than in normoxia. Carbonylated skeletal muscle and plasma proteins were increased after the sprint in hypoxia. Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation was increased by 3.1-fold 30 min after the sprint in normoxia. This effect was prevented by hypoxia. The NAD(+)-to-NADH.H(+) ratio was reduced (by 24-fold) after the sprints, with a greater reduction in hypoxia than in normoxia (P < 0.05), concomitant with 53% lower sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) protein levels after the sprint in hypoxia (P < 0.05). This could have led to lower liver kinase B1 (LKB1) activation by SIRT1 and, hence, blunted Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation. Ser(485)-AMPKα(1)/Ser(491)-AMPKα(2) phosphorylation, a known negative regulating mechanism of Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation, was increased by 60% immediately after the sprint in hypoxia, coincident with increased Thr(308)-Akt phosphorylation. Collectively, our results indicate that the signaling response to sprint exercise in human skeletal muscle is altered in severe acute hypoxia, which abrogated Thr(172)-AMPKα phosphorylation, likely due to lower LKB1 activation by SIRT1.