Hypertension and physical exercise: The role of oxidative stress

Physical exercise in hypertensive heart disease: From the differential diagnosis to the complementary role of exercise

Arterial hypertension (AH) is one of the most common pathologic conditions and uncontrolled AH is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality. AH chronically causes myocardial and arterial remodelling with hemodynamic changes affecting the heart and other organs, with potentially irreversible consequences leading to poor outcomes. Therefore, a proper and early treatment of AH is crucial after the diagnosis. Beyond medical treatment, physical exercise also plays a therapeutic role in reducing blood pressure, given its potential effects on sympathetic tone, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and endothelial function. International scientific societies recommend physical exercise among lifestyle modifications to treat AH in the first stages of the disease. Moreover, some studies have also shown its usefulness in addition to drugs to reduce blood pressure further. Therefore, an accurate, personalized exercise prescription is recommended to optimize the prevention and treatment of hypertension. On the other hand, uncontrolled AH in athletes requires proper risk stratification and careful evaluation to practice competitive sports safely. Moreover, the differential diagnosis between hypertensive heart disease and athlete's heart is sometimes challenging and requires a careful and comprehensive interpretation in order not to misinterpret the clinical findings. The present review aims to discuss the relationship between hypertensive heart disease and physical exercise, from diagnostic tools to prevention and treatment strategies.

Beneficial effects of swimming and pomegranate juice in rats with hypertension: A possible role of serum adropin

Hypertension, characterized by persistent and uncontrolled high blood pressure, is one of the most common significant causes of mortality worldwide. Lifestyle modifications such as exercise and antioxidant intake have showed beneficial effects on hypertensive conditions. Adropin and endothelin-1 (ET-1) have important vasoregulatory functions in the endothelium. However, the underlying mechanisms linking exercise- and/or antioxidant intake-mediated improvement of hypertension are not fully understood. In this study, it was hypothesized that swimming exercise and pomegranate juice (PJ) (as an antioxidant) administration might have protective effects on hypertension development and possible involvements of serum adropin and ET-1. To test the hypothesis, the rats with hypertension, induced by Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, were subjected to swimming exercise and received PJ for 8 weeks. Weekly systolic and diastolic pressures, serum concentrations of adropin and ET-1, and oxidant/antioxidant parameters in various tissues were measured. The obtained data show that swimming exercise leads to complete protection against hypertension within the 8-week duration, whereas the PJ administration causes an ameliorative effect. In addition, the combination of swimming exercise and PJ administration do not have additive effects in protection against hypertension. Notably, the 8-week swimming exercise restores the diminished serum adropin concentration in rats with hypertension to the control level. Serum adropin significantly correlated with systolic and diastolic pressures, depending on swimming exercise, but not PJ administration. Serum ET-1 concentration inconsistently fluctuates in response to Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, swimming exercise, and PJ intake. In addition, swimming exercise and/or PJ administration lead to a complete normalization in liver malondialdehyde concentrations of rats with hypertension, whereas these interventions cause slight or no improvements in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione in the heart, liver, and kidney. In conclusion, 8-week swimming exercise modulates hypertension, possibly by influencing adropin concentration and oxidative stress.

Lowering blood pressure by exercise: investigating the effect of sweating

High blood pressure (hypertension), is a common medical condition, affecting millions of people and is associated with significant health risks. Exercise has been suggested to manage hypertension by inducing sweating and the corresponding loss of sodium and water from the body.Thus, a variety of epidemiological and clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the relationship between sweating and exercise-induced blood pressure reduction and its impacts on hypertension. The mechanisms underlying exercise-induced blood pressure reduction are complex and still not fully understood. However, several pathways have been suggested, including the loss of sodium and water through sweat, a decrease in peripheral resistance, and an improvement in endothelial function in the blood vessels. The decrease in sodium and water content in the body associated with sweating may result in a reduction in blood volume and thus a decrease in blood pressure. Moreover, the reduction in peripheral resistance is thought to be mediated by the activation of the nitric oxide synthase pathway and the release of vasodilators such as prostacyclin and bradykinin, which lead to vasodilation and, thus, a reduction in blood pressure. In conclusion, exercise-induced sweating and consequent sodium and water loss appear to be a reliable biological link to the blood pressure-reducing effects of exercise in hypertensive individuals. Additionally, the mechanisms underlying exercise-induced blood pressure reduction are complex and involve several biological pathways in the cardiovascular system. Therefore, understanding the role of sweat production in blood pressure management is important for developing effective exercise interventions to prevent and manage hypertension.

High-intensity interval training mitigates the progression of periodontitis and improves behavioural aspects in rats

AIM

To investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on periodontitis (PD) progression and behavioural outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight Wistar rats were divided into four groups: non-trained (NT); non-trained with PD; HIIT with PD; and HIIT. The HIIT protocol, involving daily treadmill sessions, spanned 8 weeks, with PD induced by ligature after the 6th week. Behavioural tests were conducted to assess anxiety and memory. Post euthanasia, we evaluated the systemic inflammatory profile and oxidative stress markers in the hippocampus and amygdala. A morphological evaluation and elemental composition analysis of the mandibular alveolar bone were performed.

RESULTS

PD exacerbated alveolar bone level, bone surface damage and alterations in calcium and phosphorus percentages on the bone surface (p < .05), while HIIT attenuated these changes (p < .05). HIIT improved systemic inflammatory markers altered by PD (tumour necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-10, TNF-α/IL-10 and IL-1β/IL-10 ratios, p < .05). PD animals exhibited lower total antioxidant capacity and levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in the amygdala and hippocampus, respectively (p < .05). HIIT maintained these parameters at levels similar to those in NT animals. HIIT improved anxiety and memory outcomes altered by PD (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

HIIT attenuates systemic inflammation, anxiety and memory outcomes promoted by PD.

Resistance Training in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Review on Its Effectiveness in Controlling Risk Factors

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), a term encompassing various disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, includes coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is primarily due to the development of atherosclerotic plaques that disrupt blood flow, oxygenation, and nutrient delivery to the myocardium. Risk factors contributing to CAD progression include smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), dyslipidaemia, and obesity. While aerobic exercise (AE) has shown promising results in controlling CVD risk factors, the impact of resistance training (RT) has not been extensively investigated. This review aims to describe the effects of RT on CVD risk factors based on studies retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Both isometric and isotonic RT have been found to decrease systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure, or mean arterial pressure, with SBP showing a more significant reduction. Hypertensive patients engaging in RT alongside a calorie-restricted diet demonstrated significant improvements in blood pressure. RT is associated with increased nitric oxide bioavailability, sympathetic modulation, and enhanced endothelial function. In type-2 DM patients, 8-12 weeks of RT led to improvements in fasting blood glucose levels, insulin secretion, metabolic syndrome risk, and glucose transporter numbers. Combining AE with RT had a more significant impact in reducing insulin resistance and enhancing blood glucose compared to performing exercises separately. It also significantly decreased total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein within 12 weeks of application. However, improvements are considered insignificant when lipid levels are already low to normal at baseline. The administration of RT resulted in weight loss and improved body mass index, with more pronounced effects seen when combining AE with RT and a calorie-restricted diet. Considering these results, the administration of RT, either alone or in combination with AE, proves beneficial in rehabilitating CAD patients by improving various risk factors.

Deciphering MMP9's dual role in regulating SOD3 through protein-protein interactions

Although the collagenase enzyme activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) is well-documented, its non-enzymatic functions remain less understood. The interaction between intracellular superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) and MMP9 is known, with SOD1 suppressing MMP9. However, the mechanism by which MMP9, a secretory protein, influences the extracellular antioxidant superoxide dismutase-3 (SOD3) is not yet clear. To explore MMP9's regulatory impact on SOD3, we employed human embryonic kidney-293 cells, transfecting them with MMP9 overexpresssion and catalytic-site mutant plasmids. Additionally, MMP9 overexpressing cells were treated with an MMP9 activator and inhibitor. Analyses of both cell lysates and culture medium provided insights into MMP9's intracellular and extracellular regulatory roles. In-silico analysis and experimental approaches like proximal ligation assay and co-immunoprecipitation were utilized to delineate the protein-protein interactions between MMP9 and SOD3. Our findings indicate that activated MMP9 enhances SOD3 levels, a regulation not hindered by MMP9 inhibitors. Intriguingly, catalytically inactive MMP9 appeared to reduce SOD3 levels, likely due to MMP9's binding with SOD3, leading to their proteolytic degradation. This MMP9 influence on SOD3 was consistent in both intracellular and extracellular environments, suggesting a parallel in MMP9-SOD3 interactions across these domains. Ultimately, this study unveils a novel interaction between MMP9 and SOD3, highlighting the unique regulatory role of catalytically inactive MMP9 in diminishing SOD3 levels, contrasting its usual upregulation by active MMP9.

In vitro, ex vivo and in vivo antihypertensive evaluation of enzymatic hydrolysates of Californian red worm (Eisenia fetida) proteins

Hypertension is an important risk factor concomitant with cardiovascular disease (CVD) states, which is why we set out to evaluate Californian red worm hydrolysates on antihypertensive activity both in vitro, ex vivo, using rabbit aortic rings and in vivo using hypertensive induced rats. The worms were manually separated, washed with water, purged for 4 h with 4 % sodium bicarbonate, sacrificed with 7 % saline, and finally washed with drinking water. The in vitro antihypertensive capacity was performed by measuring angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition; for the ex vivo assays, rabbit aorta was used to measure relaxation; for the in vivo assays, rats with induced hypertension were used to perform acute (hypotension) and chronic assays, using captopril as a control in all assays. With respect to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition, the EC50 value of the worm hydrolysate was found to be 358 ppm; with respect to the analysis in aortic rings, it was found that the mechanisms of action of the hydrolysate are endothelium-dependent, presenting a maximum relaxation of 35 %. With respect to the in vivo assays, the hypotensive test showed that the hydrolysate can reduce blood pressure by up to 32 % in only 2 h, while the chronic analysis showed that the hydrolysate at 150 ppm did not present statistically significant differences with the control (captopril) during the 15 days of analysis. The Red Californian earthworm hydrolysate presents bioactive compounds identified with antihypertensive activities in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo in different isolated and animal models. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the hydrolysate to be used as an alternative in the treatment and prevention of hypertension, and it can be implemented in functional foods or nutraceutical foods. Antihypertensive peptides, particularly those that inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), hold significant importance in medical research, specifically in the context of cardiovascular disease treatment, particularly hypertension. The focus on these peptides and the potential implications of their results in medical research can be summarized through several key points: 1) Mechanisms of Action-Antihypertensive peptides function by inhibiting ACE or renin, crucial enzymes in blood pressure regulation. 2)Alternatives to Synthetic Drugs, 3) Additional Health Benefits, and various other factors.

Uncovering the mechanism of Naoxintong capsule against hypertension based on network analysis and in vitro experiments

Naoxintong capsule (NXT) is a clinical drug for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, but its pharmacological mechanism against hypertension remains unclear. Data concerning the compounds and targets of NXT were obtained from the TCMSP and DrugBank, whereas data concerning hypertension-related genes were obtained from DisGeNET. The network was analyzed and established by STRING and Cytoscape, and function enrichment was analyzed by GO and KEGG analysis. Molecular docking was performed to analyze the interaction between ingredients and targets, cellular activity was evaluated by MTT assay, and RT-qPCR and western blot were used to evaluate the expressions of related genes. The results showed that 146 active therapeutic components can target hypertension-related genes, and we found that core genes were mainly involved in the metabolism of lipids, lipopolysaccharides, the inflammatory signaling pathway, and the oxidative stress pathway. In addition, there was high affinity between the components of NXT and targets of hypertension, where the former can increase cell viability and reduce the expressions of NOX4, MCP-1, BAX, TNF-α and IL-1β. Moreover, NXT inhibited the expressions of IL-6 and Fis1, as well as increased the expression of MCL-1. These results revealed the active compounds, hypertension targets, signaling pathways, and molecular mechanisms of NXT for treating hypertension, offering references for the clinical application of NXT and the treatment of hypertension.

Atractylenolide II ameliorates myocardial fibrosis and oxidative stress in spontaneous hypertension rats

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a well-recognized risk factor for cardiovascular, which is also a critical factor in causing myocardial fibrosis (MF).

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to explore the effect of Atractylenolide II (ATL-II) on MF and oxidative stress in spontaneous hypertension rats (SHR).

METHODS

The body weight of rats after injection of ATL-II was quantitatively analyzed. The left ventricular function of SHR was evaluated by Echocardiographic. HE staining, Masson trichrome staining, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and immunofluorescence was applied to investigate the effects of ATL-II on MF. RT qPCR was used to detect the Collagen I, α-SMA, Fibronectin, and Vimentin mRNA expression levels in myocardial slices. The effect ATL-II on cardiomyocyte apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and western blot. An immunohistochemistry assay was conducted to detect α-SMA protein and TGF-β1 protein. The contents of H2O2, GSH-PX, SOD, and MDA were measured by colorimetry.

RESULTS

ATL-II could dose-dependently improve the BW of SHRs (P< 0.05) and enhance myocardial function. Moreover, ATL-II effectively reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis in SHRs. Alternatively, ATL-II could inhibit the Collagen I, α-SMA, Fibronectin, and Vimentin mRNA and protein expression levels in SHRs. ATL-II could ameliorate oxidative stress by improving the activities of SOD and GSH-PX and lowering the contents of H2O2 and MDA in ATL-II-treated SHRs, which reach about 80%.

CONCLUSION

ATL-II could exert an inhibiting effect on MF and oxidative stress in SHRs. Hence, ATL-II may hold promise for the treatment of MF and oxidative stress in Spontaneous Hypertension.

Alleviation of Angiotensin II-Induced Vascular Endothelial Cell Injury Through Long Non-coding RNA TUG1 Inhibition

BACKGROUND

Hypertension damages endothelial cells, causing vascular remodelling. It is caused by Ang II-induced endothelial cell (EC) destruction. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNAs) are emerging regulators of endothelium homeostasis. Injured endothelium expresses lncRNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (TUG1), which may mediate endothelial cell damage, proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy and contribute to cardiovascular disease. However, uncertainty surrounds the function of lncRNA TUG1, on arterial endothelium cell damage.

OBJECTIVE

This research aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of lncRNA TUG1 in vascular endothelial cell injury.

METHOD

A microarray analysis of lncRNA human gene expression was used to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) cultures. The viability, apoptosis, and migration of Ang II-treated HUVECs were then evaluated. In order to investigate the role of lncRNA TUG1 in hypertension, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and RNA-FISH were used to examine the expression of TUG1 in SHR mice.

RESULTS

Ang II-activated HUVECs and SHR rats' abdominal aortas highly express the lncRNA TUG1. LncRNA TUG1 knockdown in HUVECs could increase cell viability, reduce apoptosis, and produce inflammatory factors. In SHR rat abdominal aortas, lncRNA TUG1 knockdown promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis. HE spotting showed that lncRNA TUG1 knockdown improved SHR rats' abdominal aorta shape. lncRNA TUG1 knockdown promotes miR-9- 5p, which inhibits CXCR4 following transcription. The lncRNA TUG1/miR-9-5p/CXCR4 axis and vascular cell injury were also examined. MiR-9-5p silencing or CXCR4 overexpression lowered cell survival, apoptosis, and lncRNA TUG1-induced IL-6 and NO expression.

CONCLUSION

lncRNA TUG1 suppression could reduce Ang II-induced endothelial cell damage by regulating and targeting miR-9-5p to limit CXCR4 expression and open new vascular disease research pathways.

Influence of Physical Activity during Pregnancy on Maternal Hypertensive Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Gestational hypertension is a notable concern with ramifications for maternal and fetal health. Preemptive measures, including physical activity (PA), are crucial. There is a pressing need for comprehensive investigations into the impact of various forms of PA on hypertensive disorders. A systematic review and meta-analysis (CRD42022372468) following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was performed. Our review exclusively considered randomized clinical trials (RCTs) between 2010 and 2023, using the following databases: EBSCO, including Academic Search Premier, Education Resources Information Center, PubMed/MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, and OpenDissertations; Clinicaltrials.gov; Web of Science; Scopus; the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). The primary outcome was hypertensive disorders occurring during pregnancy (14 studies). Diagnosed preeclampsia (15 studies) and blood pressure levels were also examined (17 studies). PA during pregnancy was significantly associated with a reduced risk of hypertensive disorders (RR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.30, 0.66). The data also indicate a positive correlation between PA during pregnancy and both systolic (MD = -2.64, 95% CI = -4.79, -0.49) and diastolic (MD = -1.99, 95% CI = -3.68, -0.29) blood pressure levels. The relationship between PA and the incidence of diagnosed preeclampsia did not demonstrate a statistically significant association (RR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.59, 1.11; p = 0.20). Random effects were used for all analyses. PA during pregnancy promises to improve maternal health by reducing the risk of gestational hypertension and positively affecting systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

The effect of ellagic acid on the metabolic syndrome: A review article

Objective

(s): Metabolic syndrome is a collection of metabolic abnormalities that includes hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity. Ellagic acid is found in various fruits and vegetables. It has been reported to have several pharmacological properties, such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, chemopreventive, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, and antidiabetic. Our current study aims to shed light on the probable efficiency of ellagic acid in managing metabolic syndrome and its complications.

Materials and methods

To prepare the present review, the databases or search engines utilized included Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, and relevant articles have been gathered with no time limit until March 2023.

Results

Several investigations indicated that ellagic acid could be a potent compound for the treatment of many disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia by various mechanisms, including increasing insulin secretion, insulin receptor substrate protein 1 expression, regulating glucose transporter 4, triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), attenuating tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and oxidative stress in related tissues. Furthermore, ellagic acid ameliorates mitochondrial function, upregulates uncoupling protein 1 (found in brown and white adipose tissues), and regulates blood levels of nitrate/nitrite and vascular relaxations in response to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside.

Conclusion

Ellagic acid can treat or manage metabolic syndrome and associated complications, according to earlier studies. To validate the beneficial effects of ellagic acid on metabolic syndrome, additional preclinical and clinical research is necessary.

Regular exercise delays microvascular endothelial dysfunction by regulating antioxidant capacity and cellular metabolism

Aging is the basis for several unfavorable conditions, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). In this sense, regular physical activity (regular PA) has been proven to delay cellular aging and prevent endothelial dysfunction related to CVDs. Despite numerous studies involving athletes, little is known about cellular and molecular mechanisms of regular PA among master athletes. The present study aimed at evaluating the effects of regular PA on local microcirculatory functions in elderly athletes as compared to age-matched sedentary controls. Moreover, molecular/epigenetic mechanisms (nitric oxide, oxidative stress, PGC-1α, SIRT1 and miR29) were also assessed. The results of the present study showed that regular PA significantly increased local blood flow in post-ischemia and post-heating conditions, as well as NO plasma concentrations, denoting a better endothelial function/microcirculatory efficiency. Moreover, athletes presented a greater plasma antioxidant and increased transcriptional levels of the metabolism regulator PGC-1α. Finally, regular PA enhanced plasma level of SIRT1 and miR29, suggested as epigenetic regulators of redox balance and cellular metabolism. In addition, stimulated local blood flow was directly related to plasma antioxidant capacity, and SIRT1 and miR29 levels. Overall, our data confirm the beneficial effects of regular PA on the cardiovascular profile in elderly athletes and shed light on molecular signals involved in the positive adaptations to exercise.

Aging, oxidative stress and degenerative diseases: mechanisms, complications and emerging therapeutic strategies

Aging accompanied by several age-related complications, is a multifaceted inevitable biological progression involving various genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The major factor in this process is oxidative stress, caused by an abundance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). ROS and RNS pose a threat by disrupting signaling mechanisms and causing oxidative damage to cellular components. This oxidative stress affects both the ER and mitochondria, causing proteopathies (abnormal protein aggregation), initiation of unfolded protein response, mitochondrial dysfunction, abnormal cellular senescence, ultimately leading to inflammaging (chronic inflammation associated with aging) and, in rare cases, metastasis. RONS during oxidative stress dysregulate multiple metabolic pathways like NF-κB, MAPK, Nrf-2/Keap-1/ARE and PI3K/Akt which may lead to inappropriate cell death through apoptosis and necrosis. Inflammaging contributes to the development of inflammatory and degenerative diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and retinopathy. The body's antioxidant systems, sirtuins, autophagy, apoptosis, and biogenesis play a role in maintaining homeostasis, but they have limitations and cannot achieve an ideal state of balance. Certain interventions, such as calorie restriction, intermittent fasting, dietary habits, and regular exercise, have shown beneficial effects in counteracting the aging process. In addition, interventions like senotherapy (targeting senescent cells) and sirtuin-activating compounds (STACs) enhance autophagy and apoptosis for efficient removal of damaged oxidative products and organelles. Further, STACs enhance biogenesis for the regeneration of required organelles to maintain homeostasis. This review article explores the various aspects of oxidative damage, the associated complications, and potential strategies to mitigate these effects.

Tracking Biomarker Responses to Exercise in Hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Strong evidence is evolving that physical exercise prevents hypertension and reduces blood pressure in patients with pre- and manifest HTN. Yet, identifying and confirming the effectiveness of exercise are challenging. Herein, we discuss conventional and novel biomarkers such as extracellular vesicles (EVs) which may track responses to HTN before and after exercise.

RECENT FINDINGS

Evolving data shows that improved aerobic fitness and vascular function as well as lowered oxidative stress, inflammation, and gluco-lipid toxicity are leading biomarkers considered to promote HTN, but they explain only about a half of the pathophysiology. Novel biomarkers such as EVs or microRNA are providing additional input to understand the complex mechanisms involved in exercise therapy for HTN patients. Conventional and novel biomarkers are needed to fully understand the integrative "cross-talk" between tissues to regulate vasculature physiology for blood pressure control. These biomarker studies will lead to more specific disease markers and the development of even more personalized therapy in this field. However, more systematic approaches and randomized controlled trials in larger cohorts are needed to assess exercise effectiveness across the day and with different exercise types.

Oxidative balance score inversely associated with the prevalence and incidence of metabolic syndrome: analysis of two studies of the Korean population

Background

Pro-oxidant/antioxidant imbalances leading to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Oxidative Balance Score (OBS), a comprehensive measure of exposure to pro- and anti-oxidants, represents an individual's total oxidative balance. This study aimed to evaluate the association between OBS and MetS using two large datasets.

Methods

We analyzed data from 2,735 adults older than 19 years from the 2021 Korean National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (KNHANES) and 5,807 adults aged 40-69 years from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). In each dataset, OBS was categorized into sex-specific tertiles (T).

Results

In KNHANES, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for prevalent MetS in T3, compared to T1, were 0.44 (0.29-0.65) in men and 0.34 (0.23-0.50) in women after adjusting for confounders. In KoGES, the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for incident MetS in T3, compared to T1, were 0.56 (0.48-0.65) in men and 0.63 (0.55-0.73) in women after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusion

OBS appears to be inversely related to MetS, which suggests that adopting lifestyle behaviors that decrease oxidative stress could be an important preventive strategy for MetS.

Exercise Effects on Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients with Cardiometabolic Risk Factors

Left ventricular (LV) remodeling is a dynamic process, which is characterized by changes in ventricular size, shape, and wall thickness, thus altering myocardial geometry and function, and is considered as a negative prognostic factor in patients with heart failure (HF). Hypertension, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and obesity are strongly correlated with the development and the progression of LV remodeling, LV hypertrophy, and LV systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction. Indeed, the beneficial impact of exercise training on primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been well-established. Recent studies have highlighted that exercise training enhances functional capacity, muscle strength and endurance, cardiac function, and cardiac-related biomarkers among patients with established coronary artery disease (CAD) or HF, thus substantially improving their cardiovascular prognosis, survival rates, and need for rehospitalization. Therefore, in this review article, we discuss the evidence of LV remodeling in patients with cardiometabolic risk factors, such as hypertension, T2D, and obesity, and also highlight the current studies evaluating the effect of exercise training on LV remodeling in these patients.

Management of Hypertension With Non-pharmacological Interventions: A Narrative Review

Hypertension (HTN) is a condition that affects nearly half of the adult population in the United States. HTN is the elevation of blood pressure (BP) 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Untreated high blood pressure may increase the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and other serious complications. BP over 180/120 mm Hg with end-organ damage is called a hypertensive emergency. Despite advancements in medicine and treatment options, the global burden of HTN has been increasing due to the advancing age of the population and an increasing prevalence of obesity. Non-pharmacological management of HTN has gained prominence worldwide due to its additional benefits and positive impact on the overall health of individuals, having almost no side effects and reducing the financial burden of medication expenses. This article has compiled studies like systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials and reviewed the role of non-pharmacological management of HTN, including lifestyle modifications like exercise, weight loss, dietary interventions like dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet, low sodium diet, limiting alcohol consumption, smoking cessation and stress management to help control blood pressure. However, non-pharmacological interventions should be initiated in an early phase, and for proper management of HTN, we may need to include both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. This article explored and integrated various studies to highlight the role of non-pharmacological interventions to manage HTN. We also examined the need for more research studies for strategies to alleviate morbidity and mortality associated with HTN.

Effects of Turmeric Concentrate on Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress in Healthy Volunteers; an Exploratory Study

Purpose

Evidence suggests that turmeric intake can improve antioxidant defense, blood pressure (BP), ageing and gut microbiota. The effects of turmeric concentrate (curcumin) intake on cardiovascular risk factors and exercise induced oxidative stress were investigated.

Methods

A randomized placebo-controlled study was performed to assess the effects of turmeric extract in healthy volunteers before and after a 30 min exercise bout. Participants (n=22) were given either turmeric concentrate or placebo supplements. Anthropometry, BP, pulse wave velocity (PWV), biomarkers of oxidative stress, perceived exertion and lipid peroxidation were assessed.

Results

In the turmeric group, the expected BP response to exercise following turmeric was blunted and the increase was not significant compared to basal values followed by a decrease in final BP and PWV values. There were no significant differences in all baseline parameters between the placebo and the curcumin groups (P>0.05). A significant increase was observed in urinary antioxidant power (P=0.031) and total polyphenol levels (P=0.022) post turmeric intervention. The distance ran by the participants taking turmeric was significantly longer (P=0.005) compared to basal value. Those who took the placebo did not show significant changes.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that turmeric concentrate intake can reduce BP and improve antioxidant, anti-inflammatory status and arterial compliance. Turmeric may improve exercise performance and ameliorates oxidative stress. Larger studies are warranted to validate these findings and test more cardiovascular risk factors.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Ameliorates Sperm Parameters in Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice Testes by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a member of apolipoprotein (apo) family and plays critical role in lipid metabolism. In this study, the relationship between abnormal lipid metabolism caused by ApoE-deficient and male reproduction was investigated. The effect of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy on 7-month-old ApoE-knockout male mice was assessed subsequently. Mice were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group (WT), ApoE (- / -) group (AP-CON), and ApoE (- / -) plus HBO group (AP-HBO), which received HBO treatment. We found that ApoE knockout caused a decrease in male reproductive capacity due to the reduced total sperm motility, progressive motility (PR), and lower blastocyst formation rate. HBO treatment could accelerate serum lipoprotein metabolism including LDL, T-CHO, and TG and semen quality. As a result, fertilization and blastocyst formation of AP-HBO group were higher than that of AP-CON, proving positive therapeutic effect. Mechanism exploration found that HBO treatment ameliorated the testicular microenvironment by attenuating inflammatory factor production and oxidative stress, eventually improved the sperm motility. Collectively, our study provided more evidences of HBO treatment for improving the semen quality of patients with abnormal lipid metabolism caused by ApoE-deficient.

Effects of chronic core training on serum and erythrocyte oxidative stress parameters in amputee football players

Objective: The positive impact of aerobic exercise on blood oxidative stress parameters is well documented. However, the effect of core exercises on these parameters in amputee football players (AF) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of core exercises on blood oxidative stress parameters in this population. Methods: Experimental method was adopted in the study. Eleven elite AF players participated in the study. The participants were divided randomly into two groups a core exercise group (CEG) and a control group (CG). Blood measurements were taken before and after the 8-week core exercise program. Blood measurements included erythrocyte Total Oxidant Status (eTOS), erythrocyte Total Antioxidant Status (eTAS), erythrocyte oxidative stress index (eOSI), serum nitric oxide (sNO), serum Total Oxidant Status (sTOS), serum Total Antioxidant Status (sTAS), serum oxidative stress index (sOSI), serum total thiol (sTT), serum native thiol (sNT), and serum disulfide (sDS) parameters were studied. Results: According to the results of the study, a significant difference was found between the 0th and eighth week pre-aerobic training load (ATL) sTOS (p = .028) values of CEG values. A significant difference was found in sTOS (p = .028) and sOSI (p = .028) values after the 0th and eighth-week pre-ATL. A significant difference was found in the sTOS (p = .043) and sOSI values (p = .043) of CG at week 0th and eighth-week pre-ATL. Conclusion: Overall, the results suggest that core exercises had a positive effect on blood oxidative stress parameters in AF players by reducing blood total oxidant levels.

Effects of exergame and bicycle exercise intervention on blood pressure and executive function in older adults with hypertension: A three-group randomized controlled study

Management of hypertension and prevention of cognitive decline are challenging public health problems. However, the effects of exergame intervention on blood pressure (BP) remain to be explored, and whether exergame intervention is an effective alternative to traditional physical exercise intervention for older adults with hypertension remains to be demonstrated. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of moderate-intensity exergame intervention and bicycle exercise training on BP and executive function in older hypertensive patients. A total of 128 participants were randomly assigned to the exergame intervention group (n = 41), bicycle exercise intervention group (n = 44), and control group (n = 43). The intervention groups exercised for 60 min, 3 times per week, for 16 weeks, while the control group maintained their normal lifestyle. The results revealed that there were no significant differences between two intervention groups and control group in systolic BP and diastolic BP changes (ps > 0.05). Both intervention groups demonstrated significant improvements in working memory when compared with control group (exergame intervention group: -461.9 ms, p = 0.025; bicycle exercise intervention group: -470.1 ms, p = 0.021). There were no significant differences in systolic BP, diastolic BP, or working memory between the two intervention groups after 16 weeks of training (ps > 0.05). No difference in inhibition or cognitive flexibility was observed between the intervention and control groups (ps > 0.05). The current results showed that moderate-intensity exergame intervention did not produce significant benefits in reducing BP, but yielded similar beneficial effects in working memory to that of bicycle exercise intervention. More studies are needed on whether exergame intervention has the potential to be a promising supplemental therapeutic tool for older adults with hypertension.

Association of leisure-time physical activity and resistance training with risk of incident hypertension: The Ansan and Ansung study of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES)

Hypertension is the most common preventable risk factor for the onset of cardiovascular disease and mortality. We aimed to investigate the association between incident hypertension and 4-year leisure-time physical activity (PA) levels and resistance training (RT). In this community-based Korean cohort, 5,075 participants without hypertension were included. To evaluate cumulative PA, the average PA time (the total time of moderate-intensity leisure-time PA) at baseline, 2-year follow-up, and 4-year follow-up were calculated. Based on participation in RT and compliance to PA guidelines (≥150 min/week of PA time), the participants were divided into the following four groups: Low-PA, Low-PA+RT, High-PA, and High-PA+RT. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to evaluate the 12-year incidence of hypertension in relation to leisure-time PA levels and RT regularity. During a mean 7.86 ± 4.20-year follow-up, 2,544 participants (1,366 women) were diagnosed with hypertension. Compared with Low-PA, High-PA, and High-PA+RT decreased the risk for hypertension by 30 and 39%, respectively. Participation in RT without compliance to PA guidelines did not affect the incidence of hypertension. The additive effect of RT on hypertension in the High-PA group was further examined. Although sex-based comparisons indicated that men had a significantly longer training period for RT than women, an additional reduction in the risk for hypertension in relation to the addition of RT was observed only in women (35%). PA may confer protective effects against hypertension, whereas the addition of RT to high levels of PA can further reduce the risk for hypertension in women.

Effects of high-intensity interval training versus moderate-intensity continuous training on blood pressure in patients with hypertension: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension to explore more suitable training.

METHODS

PubMed, EBSCO, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, and VIP databases were searched for randomized controlled trials published between January 2002 and November 2022. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were selected as the effect scale indices for the evaluation of the differences in post-intervention systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate, maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), and flow-mediated vasodilation. All these were compared using Review Manager 5.3 and Stata 14.0.

RESULTS

A total of 13 randomized controlled trials and 442 patients were included. The meta-analyses revealed no statistically significant differences between HIIT and MICT in improving SBP and DBP in patients with hypertension. Subgroup analyses revealed that HIIT was better than MICT in reducing SBP during daytime monitoring (WMD = -4.14, 95%CI: [-6.98, -1.30], P < .001). In addition, HIIT increased flow-mediated vasodilation more than MICT in hypertensive patients (WMD = 2.75, 95%CI: [0.43, 5.07], P = .02).

CONCLUSION

HIIT and MICT have similar effects on the overall resting SBP and DBP in patients with hypertension and prehypertension. However, HIIT is better than MICT at reducing SBP during daytime monitoring. In addition, HIIT can improve vasodilation.

Cereals as a Source of Bioactive Compounds with Anti-Hypertensive Activity and Their Intake in Times of COVID-19

Cereals have phytochemical compounds that can diminish the incidence of chronic diseases such as hypertension. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) participates in the modulation of blood pressure and is the principal receptor of the virus SARS-CoV-2. The inhibitors of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and the block receptors of angiotensin II regulate the expression of ACE2; thus, they could be useful in the treatment of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The inferior peptides from 1 to 3 kDa and the hydrophobic amino acids are the best candidates to inhibit ACE, and these compounds are present in rice, corn, wheat, oats, sorghum, and barley. In addition, the vitamins C and E, phenolic acids, and flavonoids present in cereals show a reduction in the oxidative stress involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension. The influence of ACE on hypertension and COVID-19 has turned into a primary point of control and treatment from the nutritional perspective. The objective of this work was to describe the inhibitory effect of the angiotensin-converting enzyme that the bioactive compounds present in cereals possess in order to lower blood pressure and how their consumption could be associated with reducing the virulence of COVID-19.

High-normal liver enzyme levels in early pregnancy predispose the risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia: A prospective cohort study

Background

Gestational hypertension (GH) and preeclampsia (PE) are severe adverse gestational complications. Previous studies supported potential link between elevated liver enzyme levels and GH and PE. However, given the transient physiological reduction of liver enzyme levels in pregnancy, little is known whether the associations of the high-normal liver enzyme levels in early pregnancy with GH and PE exist in pregnant women.

Methods

Pregnant women in this study came from a sub-cohort of Shanghai Preconception Cohort, who were with four liver enzyme levels examined at 9–13 gestational weeks and without established liver diseases, hypertension and preeclampsia. After exclusion of pregnant women with clinically-abnormal liver enzyme levels in the current pregnancy, associations of liver enzyme levels, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), with GH and PE status were assessed by multivariable log-binomial regression. Population attributable fraction was measured to estimate the fractions of GH and PE that were attributable to the high-normal liver enzyme levels.

Results

Among 5,685 pregnant women 160 (2.8%) and 244 (4.3%) developed GH and PE, respectively. After adjustment for potential covariates, higher ALP, ALT and GGT levels were significantly associated with the risk of GH (adjusted risk ratio (aRR):1.21 [95% confidence interval, 1.05–1.38]; 1.21 [1.05–1.38]; and 1.23 [1.09–1.39]), as well as the risk of PE(1.21 [1.13–1.29]; 1.15 [1.03–1.28]; 1.28 [1.16–1.41]), respectively. The cumulative population attributable fraction of carrying one or more high-normal liver enzyme levels (at 80th percentile or over) was 31.4% for GH and 23.2% for PE, respectively.

Conclusion

Higher ALT, ALP and GGT levels within the normal range in early pregnancy are associated with increased risk of GH and PE. The documented associations provide new insight to the role of hepatobiliary function in GH and PE pathogenesis.

Effects of Exercise Training on PPARβ/δ Expression in Skeletal Muscle of Rats with Spontaneous Hypertension

PURPOSE

This study aimed to identify the relationship and mechanism between skeletal muscle peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ/δ) and spontaneous hypertension.

METHODS

Rats were divided into four groups ( n = 10): spontaneous hypertensive rats exercise group (SHR-E), spontaneous hypertensive rats sedentary group (SHR-S), Wistar-Kyoto control rats exercise group (WKY-E), and Wistar-Kyoto control rats sedentary group (WKY-S). Although the sedentary groups were placed on the treadmill without moving during the training sessions, the exercise groups were forced to run on a treadmill for 8 wk, 1 h·d -1 , 5 d·wk -1 . After training, the density and area of gastrocnemius microvessels were observed. PPARβ/δ, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD-2), and nitric oxide synthase in gastrocnemius were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot.

RESULTS

Except the sixth week of age, the systolic blood pressure of SHR-S was significantly higher than that of WKY-S at all time periods. Exercise significantly reduced systolic blood pressure in SHR rats. Compared with the SHR-S group, the WKY-S group had significantly higher PPARβ/δ protein level and density of skeletal muscle microvessels. Eight weeks of exercise increased the PPARβ/δ, SOD-2, VEGFA, and microvessel density and area in the skeletal muscle of SHR.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise training promoted PPARβ/δ mRNA and protein-level expression of PPARβ/δ, SOD-2 and VEGFA in skeletal muscle, thus increasing the density and area of skeletal muscle blood vessels. These regulations contribute to the reduction of peripheral vascular resistance. This may be a potential mechanism of exercise to reduce blood pressure.

Per-/polyfluoroalkyl substance concentrations in human serum and their associations with immune markers of rheumatoid arthritis

Per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are ubiquitous in the environment and have been proved to be immunotoxic to humans. However, it remains unclear whether exposure to PFASs affects the risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study, nine PFASs were determined in human serum collected from 280 health populations and 294 RA patients in a cohort enrolled between 2018 and 2020 in Hangzhou, China, and were examined their correlations with immune marker levels. Perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (6:2 Cl-PFESA) were the predominant PFASs in human serum, with median (mean) concentrations of 5.4 (7.6), 2.8 (3.5), and 1.9 (2.5) ng/mL, respectively. Serum PFOA and 6:2 Cl-PFESA concentrations were positively correlated with anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA) (β_PFOA = 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37, 0.81; β_{6:2 Cl-PFESA} = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.66), immunoglobulin G (β_PFOA = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.29; β_{6:2 Cl-PFESA} = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.19) as well as rheumatoid factors (RF) (β_PFOA = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.80; β_{6:2 Cl-PFESA} = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.72). The correlations between serum PFOS levels and RF (β = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.77), ACPA (β = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.73), as well as immunoglobulin M (β = -0.24, 95% CI: 0.64, 0.15) respectively were statistically stronger. We also found PFOA concentrations in serum were associated with the level of C-reactive protein (β = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.40, 0.65). To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting significant associations between several PFASs and change of specific immune marker levels, suggesting that PFAS exposure may increase the risk of RA in adults.

Antioxidants in Arrhythmia Treatment—Still a Controversy? A Review of Selected Clinical and Laboratory Research

Antioxidants are substances that can prevent damage to cells caused by free radicals. Production of reactive oxygen species and the presence of oxidative stress play an important role in cardiac arrhythmias. Currently used antiarrhythmic drugs have many side effects. The research on animals and humans using antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E, resveratrol and synthetic substances) yields many interesting but inconclusive results. Natural antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, can reduce the recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after successful electrical cardioversion and protect against AF after cardiac surgery, but do not affect the incidence of atrial arrhythmias in critically ill patients with trauma. Vitamins C and E may also effectively treat ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation and long QT-related arrhythmias. Another natural antioxidant—resveratrol—may effectively treat AF and ventricular arrhythmias caused by ischaemia–reperfusion injury. It reduces the mortality associated with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and can be used to prevent myocardial remodelling. Statins also show antioxidant activity. Their action is related to the reduction of oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, statins can reduce the post-operative risk of AF and may be useful in lowering its recurrence rate after successful cardioversion. Promising results also apply to polyphenols, nitric oxide synthase inhibitors and MitoTEMPO. Although few clinical trials have been conducted, the use of antioxidants in treating arrhythmias is an interesting prospect.

Application of Fluorescent Probes in Reactive Oxygen Species Disease Model

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in living activities as signaling molecules that regulate the living activities of organisms. There are many types of ROS, mainly including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), hydroxyl radical (•OH), peroxyl radical (ROO•), singlet oxygen (1O2), peroxynitrite (ONOO-) and superoxide anion radical (O2-•) etc. Existing studies have shown that changes in ROS levels are closely associated with the development of many diseases, such as inflammation, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative damage. Small molecule fluorescent probes have been widely used in biology, pathology and medical diagnosis due to their advantages of noninvasive, high sensitivity and in vivo real-time detection. It is extremely important to better apply small-molecule fluorescent probes to detect ROS levels in organisms to achieve early diagnosis of diseases and assessment of therapeutic conditions. This work focuses on summarizing the representative applications of some fluorescent probes in ROS disease models in recent years. This article focuses on summarizing the construction methods of various ROS-related disease models, and classifying and analyzing the basic ideas and methods of fluorescent probes applied to disease models according to the characteristics of various diseases.

Effects of almonds on ameliorating salt-induced hypertension in dahl salt-sensitive rats

BACKGROUND

Excessive dietary salt intake is related to an increased risk of hypertension. Dietary functional foods probably could help to improve salt-induced hypertension. In this study, Dahl salt-sensitive (DSS) rats were used to investigate their metabolic differences from those of salt-resistant SS.13^BN rats and determine whether dietary protein-rich almonds could ameliorate salt-induced elevation of blood pressure in DSS rats.

RESULTS

After high-salt intake, the systolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure of the DSS rats increased dramatically. Metabolomics analysis indicated abnormal amino acid metabolism in their kidneys. Their renal nitric oxide (NO) content and nitric oxide synthase activity decreased significantly after high-salt diet. Oxidative stress also occurred in DSS rats. After the DSS rats received almond supplementation, the levels of various amino acids in their kidney increased, and renal arginine and NO contents were upregulated. Their renal hydrogen peroxide and malonaldehyde levels decreased, whereas renal catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities and glutathione levels increased.

CONCLUSION

The renal abnormal amino acid metabolism of DSS rats contributed to the impaired NO production in response to high-salt intake. Together with salt-induced oxidative stress, high-salt diet intake ultimately led to an increase in the blood pressure of DSS rats. Protein-rich almond supplementation might prevent the development of salt-induced hypertension by restoring arginine and NO regeneration and alleviating salt-induced oxidative stress. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Mechanisms and Clinical Implications of Endothelial Dysfunction in Arterial Hypertension

The endothelium is composed of a monolayer of endothelial cells, lining the interior surface of blood and lymphatic vessels. Endothelial cells display important homeostatic functions, since they are able to respond to humoral and hemodynamic stimuli. Thus, endothelial dysfunction has been proposed as a key and early pathogenic mechanism in many clinical conditions. Given the relevant repercussions on cardiovascular risk, the complex interplay between endothelial dysfunction and systemic arterial hypertension has been a matter of study in recent years. Numerous articles have been published on this issue, all of which contribute to providing an interesting insight into the molecular mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction in arterial hypertension and its role as a biomarker of inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular disease. The prognostic and therapeutic implications of endothelial dysfunction have also been analyzed in this clinical setting, with interesting new findings and potential applications in clinical practice and future research. The aim of this review is to summarize the pathophysiology of the relationship between endothelial dysfunction and systemic arterial hypertension, with a focus on the personalized pharmacological and rehabilitation strategies targeting endothelial dysfunction while treating hypertension and cardiovascular comorbidities.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) polymorphism rs3025039 and atherosclerosis among older with hypertension

Angiogenesis inhibition therapy causes hypertension by increasing peripheral vascular resistance. Vasa vasorum angiogenesis plays a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis. Since vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which contributes to the progress of angiogenesis, is reported to be inversely associated with the minor allele of polymorphism rs3025039, the minor allele of rs3025039 could be inversely associated with atherosclerosis among individuals with hypertension. A cross-sectional study of 1793 older Japanese adults aged 60–89 years with hypertension who participated in general health check-ups was conducted. Atherosclerosis was defined as carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) ≥ 1.1 mm. The minor allele of polymorphism rs3025020 was positively associated with VEGF. Therefore, in addition to known cardiovascular risk factors, rs3025020 genotype acted as a confounding factor in the present study. Independent of known confounding factors, the minor allele of rs3025039 was inversely associated with atherosclerosis among older Japanese adults with hypertension. The fully adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for atherosclerosis with the minor allele of rs3025039 was 0.78 (0.64, 0.96). The angiogenesis-related polymorphism rs3025039 was associated with the development of atherosclerosis among older Japanese individuals. This study indicates that the development of atherosclerosis among older individuals might partly indicate a capacity for angiogenesis.

Differential Metabolites and Metabolic Pathways Involved in Aerobic Exercise Improvement of Chronic Fatigue Symptoms in Adolescents Based on Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Studies have found that the prevalence of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in adolescents has continued to increase over the years, affecting learning and physical health. High school is a critical stage for adolescents to grow and mature. There are inadequate detection and rehabilitation methods for CFS due to an insufficient understanding of the physiological mechanisms of CFS. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect and metabolic mechanisms of an aerobic running intervention program for high school students with CFS. Forty-six male high school students with CFS were randomly assigned to the exercise intervention group (EI) and control group (CFS). Twenty-four age- and sex-matched healthy male students were recruited as healthy controls (HCs). The EI group received the aerobic intervention for 12 weeks, three times a week, in 45-min sessions; the CFS group maintained their daily routines as normal. The outcome measures included fatigue symptoms and oxidation levels. Keratin was extracted from the nails of all participants, and the oxidation level was assessed by measuring the content of 3-Nitrotyrosine (3-NT) in the keratin by ultraviolet spectrophotometry. All participants’ morning urine was collected to analyze urinary differential metabolites by the GC-MS technique before and after the intervention, and MetaboAnalyst 5.0 was used for pathway analysis. Compared with before the intervention, the fatigue score and 3-NT level in the EI group were significantly decreased after the intervention. The CFS group was screened for 20 differential metabolites involving the disruption of six metabolic pathways, including arginine biosynthesis, glycerolipid metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway, purine metabolism, β-alanine metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism. After the intervention, 21 differential metabolites were screened, involved in alterations in three metabolic pathways: beta-alanine metabolism, pentose phosphate metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism. Aerobic exercise was found to lessen fatigue symptoms and oxidative levels in students with CFS, which may be related to the regulation of putrescine (arginine and proline metabolism), 6-Phospho-D-Gluconate (starch and sucrose metabolism pathway), and Pentose (phosphate metabolism pathway).

Effects of Long-Term Regular Continuous and Intermittent Walking on Oxidative Stress, Metabolic Profile, Heart Rate Variability, and Blood Pressure in Older Adults with Hypertension

It is documented that regular exercise is beneficial for improving the antioxidant system, metabolic system, cardiac autonomic function, and blood pressure in those with hypertension. In this regard, low-intensity exercise is recommended for older adults, particularly those with chronic diseases. This study aimed to compare the effects of long-term regular continuous walking with intermittent walking on oxidative stress, metabolic profile, heart rate variability, and blood pressure in older adults with hypertension. Forty-three participants with hypertension aged 60–80 years were randomly divided into the continuous or intermittent walking (CON or INT) groups. Participants in the CON group walked for 30 min, 3 days/week for 12 weeks. Participants in the INT group split 30 min walking into 3 identical sessions punctuated by a 1 min rest after each session, 3 days/week for 12 weeks. Antioxidant and oxidative stress markers, metabolic markers, heart rate variability, and blood pressure were evaluated before and after the exercise program. Glutathione (GSH), GSH to GSH disulfide (GSSG) ratio, and total GSH increased significantly, and GSSG and malondialdehyde decreased significantly in both groups ( $p<0.05$ ) without significant differences between groups. Triglycerides, ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and atherosclerogenic index were significantly lower in the CON group than those in the INT group ( $p<0.05$ ). The standard deviation of the NN intervals and root mean square of the successive differences were significantly higher, and low-frequency power was significantly lower in the INT group than that in the CON group ( $p<0.05$ ). No significant changes in blood pressure were noted in both groups, and nor were there any significant differences between groups. Long-term regular continuous and intermittent walking may comparably increase antioxidants, reduce oxidative stress, and be beneficial for improving important blood pressure-related outcomes, including metabolic profile or cardiac autonomic function in older adults with hypertension.

Association between Exercise and Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Residents: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Exercise is recommended as an effective lifestyle behaviour for adults to prevent and treat hypertension. In this study, a randomized-effect meta-analysis was used to analyse the influence of exercise interventions on blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

METHODS

Candidate papers were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library electronic databases, and 46 studies were finally included and analysed.

RESULTS

It was shown that preplanned walking (systolic blood pressure (SBP): WMD (weighted mean difference) = -5.94, 95% CI: -8.57, -3.30; diastolic blood pressure (DBP): WMD = -2.66, 95% CI: -3.66, -1.67), yoga (SBP: WMD = -5.09, 95% CI: -9.28, -0.89; DBP: WMD = -3.06, 95% CI: -5.16, -0.96), aquatic sports (SBP WMD = -7.53, 95% CI: -11.40, -3.65; DBP: WMD = -5.35, 95% CI: -9.00, -1.69), and football (SBP: WMD = -6.06, 95% CI: -9.30, -2.82; DBP: WMD = -5.55, 95% CI: -8.98, -2.13) had significant effects on blood pressure reduction. However, Tai Chi (SBP: WMD = -8.31, 95% CI: -20.39, 3.77; DBP: WMD = -3.05, 95% CI: -6.96, 0.87) and Qigong (SBP: WMD = -4.34, 95% CI: -13.5, 4.82; DBP: WMD = -3.44, 95% CI: -7.89, 1.01) did not significantly reduce blood pressure. The heterogeneity of the meta-analysis was high.

CONCLUSION

Walking, yoga, aquatic sports, and football were feasible and independent lifestyle interventions, and they were effective options for treating hypertension. More scientifically designed randomized controlled trials are needed in the future to further compare different forms of exercise for the treatment of hypertension.

Lifestyle-Induced Redox-Sensitive Alterations: Cross-Talk among the RAAS, Antioxidant/Inflammatory Status, and Hypertension

The development and progression of hypertension are closely linked to an unhealthy lifestyle; however, its underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Our aim was to assess the effects of diet and exercise on the elements of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), redox-sensitive parameters, and the expression of the vascular tone regulator endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Male control Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive (SHRSP) rats were randomized based on the type of diet (standard chow, high-fat diet: HT, and fructose-enriched diet: HF) and exercise (voluntary wheel-running exercise or lack of exercise). After 12 weeks of experimental period, the concentrations of the RAAS elements, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) concentrations, levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), and expressions of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2) and phosphorylated ERK1/2 as well as eNOS were measured in the cardiac tissue of WKY and SHRSP rats. We found that the RAAS elements were overactivated under hypertension and were further elevated by HT or HF diet, while HT and HF diet enhanced MPO and TNF-α parameters as well as the expression of pERK1/2; SOD, GSH, and eNOS levels were decreased. These changes occurred in WKKY rats and reached the statistically significant level in SHRSP animals. 12 weeks of exercise compensated the adverse effects of HT and HF via alleviating the concentrations of the RAAS elements and inflammatory markers as well as increasing of antioxidants. Our findings prove that SHRSP rats are more vulnerable to lifestyle changes. Both the type of diet and exercise, as a nonpharmacological therapeutic tool, can have a significant impact on the progression of hypertension.

Hypertension telemonitoring and home-based physical training programs

PURPOSE

Hypertensive patients with access to telemedicine can receive telemonitoring of blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors such as sedentary lifestyle, diet, and remote supervision of treatment compliance. Faced with this challenge, electronic devices for telemonitoring of BP have gained space. They have shown to be effective in the follow-up of hypertensive patients and assist in the adherence and control of associated risk factors such as physical inactivity and obesity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Narrative Review.

RESULTS

The use of advanced smartwatches, smartphone apps, and online software for monitoring physical activity is increasingly common. Electronic equipment is briefly presented here as a support for better addressing some cardiovascular variables. Using various automated feedback services with a follow-up multidisciplinary clinical team is the ideal strategy.

CONCLUSION

Mobile health can improve risk factors and health status, particularly for hypertensive patients, improving access to cardiac rehabilitation and reducing the cost.

The Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Oxidative Stress in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Oxidative stress (OS) plays an important role in the progression of many aging-related diseases. Exercises can delay this kind of progress, but aerobic exercise is the most commonly used type of training among older adults; therefore, its influence needs to be further verified.

Methods: A literature search was conducted in eight electronic databases, including Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang Date, and SinoMed from their inception to April 2020. Methodological quality was assessed using Cochrane RoB tool v2.0 for individual studies, and RevMan 5.3 software was used to perform the meta-analysis.

Results: The meta-analysis included 20 studies, involving 1,170 older adults. The results showed that regular aerobic exercise could reduce blood oxidant markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA; SMD=−1.80, 95% CI −2.46 to −1.14, p<0.001) and lipid peroxide (LPO; SMD=−1.12, 95% CI −2.03 to −0.22, p=0.02), and increase the levels of antioxidant factors, such as nitric oxide (NO; SMD=0.89, 95% CI 0.37–1.41, p<0.001), superoxide dismutase (SOD; SMD=0.63, 95% CI 0.25–1.01, p=0.001), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC; SMD=1.22, 95% CI 0.45–1.98, p=0.002), with clear statistical significance. It may also improve the levels of other OS markers, such as 8-OHdG, 8-isoPGF2, VE, and reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG).

Conclusion: Regular aerobic exercise may have a positive effect on the OS levels of older adults by reducing some oxidant markers and increasing antioxidant marker levels.

Cardiac Oxidative Stress and the Therapeutic Approaches to the Intake of Antioxidant Supplements and Physical Activity

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are strongly reactive chemical entities that include oxygen regulated by enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense mechanisms. ROS contribute significantly to cell homeostasis in the heart by regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and excitation-contraction coupling. When ROS generation surpasses the ability of the antioxidant defense mechanisms to buffer them, oxidative stress develops, resulting in cellular and molecular disorders and eventually in heart failure. Oxidative stress is a critical factor in developing hypoxia- and ischemia-reperfusion-related cardiovascular disorders. This article aimed to discuss the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of cardiac diseases such as hypertension and endothelial dysfunction. This review focuses on the various clinical events and oxidative stress associated with cardiovascular pathophysiology, highlighting the benefits of new experimental treatments such as creatine supplementation, omega-3 fatty acids, microRNAs, and antioxidant supplements in addition to physical exercise

The poorly conducted orchestra of steroid hormones, oxidative stress and inflammation in frailty needs a maestro: Regular physical exercise

This review outlines the various factors associated with unhealthy aging which includes becoming frail and dependent. With many people not engaging in recommended exercise, facilitators and barriers to engage with exercise must be investigated to promote exercise uptake and adherence over the lifespan for different demographics, including the old, less affluent, women, and those with different cultural-ethnic backgrounds. Governmental and locally funded public health messages and environmental facilitation (gyms, parks etc.) can play an important role. Studies have shown that exercise can act as a conductor to balance oxidative stress, immune and endocrine functions together to promote healthy aging and reduce the risk for age-related morbidities, such as cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis, and promote cognition and mood over the lifespan. Like a classic symphony orchestra, consisting of four groups of related musical instruments - the woodwinds, brass, percussion, and strings - the aging process should also perform in harmony, with compassion, avoiding the aggrandizement of any of its individual parts during the presentation. This review discusses the wide variety of molecular, cellular and endocrine mechanisms (focusing on the steroid balance) underlying this process and their interrelationships.

Effects of chronic cholinergic stimulation associated with aerobic physical training on cardiac morphofunctional and autonomic parameters in spontaneously hypertensive rats

We investigated hemodynamic, cardiac morphofunctional, and cardiovascular autonomic adaptations in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) after aerobic physical training associated with chronic cholinergic stimulation. Fifty-four SHRs were divided into two groups: trained and untrained. Each group was further subdivided into three smaller groups: vehicle, treated with pyridostigmine bromide at 5 mg/kg/day, and treated with pyridostigmine bromide at 15 mg/kg/day. The following protocols were assessed: echocardiography, autonomic double pharmacological blockade, heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure variability (BPV), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). Physical training and pyridostigmine bromide reduced BP and HR and increased vagal participation in cardiac autonomic tonic balance. The associated responses were then potentialized. Treatment with pyridostigmine bromide increased HRV oscillation of both low frequency (LF: 0.2-0.75 Hz) and high frequency (HF: 0.75-3 Hz). However, the association with physical training attenuated HF oscillations. Additionally, treatment with pyridostigmine bromide also increased LF oscillations of BPV. Both treatment groups promoted morphofunctional adaptations, and associated increased ejection volume, ejection fraction, cardiac output, and cardiac index. In conclusion, the association of pyridostigmine bromide and physical training promoted greater benefits in hemodynamic parameters and increased vagal influence on cardiac autonomic tonic balance. Nonetheless, treatment with pyridostigmine bromide alone seems to negatively affect BPV and the association of treatment negatively influences HRV.

Irisin in atherosclerosis

Irisin, a novel exercise-induced myokine, has been shown to play important roles in increasing white adipose tissue browning, regulating energy metabolism and improving insulin resistance. Growing evidence suggests a direct role for irisin in preventing atherosclerosis (AS) by inhibiting oxidative stress, improving dyslipidemia, facilitating anti-inflammation, reducing cellular damage and recovering endothelial function. In addition, some studies have noted that serum irisin levels play an essential role in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) risk prediction, highlighting that irisin has the potential to be a useful predictive marker and therapeutic target of AS, especially in monitoring therapeutic efficacy. This review summarizes the understanding of irisin-mediated regulation in essential biological pathways and functions in atherosclerosis and prompts further exploitation of the biological properties of irisin in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

A Mixed Comparisons of Different Intensities and Types of Physical Exercise in Patients With Diseases Related to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

The balance of oxidative and antioxidant systems is of great importance to the human body. Physical exercise, as one of the ways to improve physical health, seems to modulate this balance. However, different intensities and types of physical exercise have other effects on the treatment of unhealthy people. To understand the impact of exercise training on the oxidative and antioxidant systems of adults with oxidative stress-related disorders, a network meta-analysis was used to compare the mixed effects of different intensities and types of exercise training. This systematic review included all eligible RCTs from PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL. Eleven of the studies met the inclusion criteria (at study completion, n = 666 participants). Seven studies reported that the level of MDA decreased significantly after exercise (p < 0.05), and 3 studies reported that the level of SOD increased significantly after exercise (p < 0.05). In conclusion, long-term high-intensity aerobic training and Tai Chi or Yoga can effectively improve oxidative stress in unhealthy people. In addition, different types of diseases on the effect of exercise intervention seems to be other, diabetes and chronic kidney patients using moderate-intensity aerobic training or Tai chi and Yoga effect are better; Moderate-intensity aerobic training had a better impact on OS improvement in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and severe depression. However, more research is needed to determine the effects of different levels and types of physical activity on oxidative stress in unhealthy populations.

Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO identifier: CRD42021242025. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/.

Physical Activity, Obesity, and Hypertension among Adults in a Rapidly Urbanised City

Background

Few studies have explored the relationship between the level of physical activity and the occurrence or prevalence of obesity and hypertension among people residing in urbanised areas.

Method

A cross-sectional study involving a sample of 1,001 adults was conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to describe sociodemographic variables, physical activity levels, body mass index (BMI), and prevalence of hypertension. Logistic regression models were adopted to investigate the relationship between these factors.

Results

A total of 939 respondents who provided valid responses were included. Among them, 56.5% of the participants reported engaging in high levels of physical activity. However, 40.4% of the respondents were classified as overweight or obese, and 31.9% had diagnosed hypertension. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, logistic regression analysis revealed that physical activity levels were negatively correlated with the prevalence of BMI (OR = 0.564, 95% CI: 0.352-0.905; OR = 0.583, 95% CI: 0.375-0.907) and hypertension (OR = 0.556, 95% CI: 0.348-0.888).

Conclusions

Our study confirms recent evidence regarding the amount of physical activity that is associated with lower prevalence of obesity and hypertension in Pingshan District. Furthermore, different physical activities of various intensity levels had different effects on hypertension. Residents should be encouraged to engage in physical activities and maintain a healthy weight to improve their quality of life.

Aerobic Exercise During Advance Stage of Uncontrolled Arterial Hypertension

Aim

To evaluate the influence of physical training on myocardial function, oxidative stress, energy metabolism, and MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), at advanced stage of arterial hypertension, which precedes heart failure development.

Methods

We studied four experimental groups: normotensive Wistar rats (W, n = 27), trained W (W-EX, n = 31), SHR (n = 27), and exercised SHR (SHR-EX, n = 32). At 13 months old, the exercise groups underwent treadmill exercise 5 days a week for 4 months. In vitro myocardial function was analyzed in left ventricular (LV) papillary muscle preparations. Antioxidant enzyme activity and energy metabolism were assessed by spectrophotometry. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activity was analyzed by lucigenin reduction and protein expression by Western blot. Statistical analyzes: ANOVA and Tukey or Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests.

Results

SHR-EX had a lower frequency of heart failure features than SHR. Myocardial function and antioxidant enzyme activity were better in SHR-EX than SHR. Lipid hydroperoxide concentration, and phosphorylated JNK and total IkB protein expression were higher in hypertensive than control groups. Malondialdehyde, NADPH oxidase activity, total JNK, phosphorylated p38, phosphorylated and total p65 NF-κB, and phosphorylated IkB did not differ between groups. Protein expression from total p38, and total and phosphorylated ERK were higher in SHR than W. Lactate dehydrogenase and phosphorylated ERK were lower and citrate synthase and β-hydroxyacyldehydrogenase were higher in SHR-EX than SHR.

Conclusion

Exercise improves physical capacity, myocardial function, and antioxidant enzyme activity; reduces the frequency of heart failure features and ERK phosphorylation; and normalizes energy metabolism in SHR.

Protective effect of recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HUVEC cells

This study probed the protective effect of recombinant Lactobacillus plantarum against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We constructed a new functional L. plantarum (NC8-pSIP409-alr-angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory peptide (ACEIP)) with a double-gene-labeled non-resistant screen as an expression vector. A 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay was carried out to determine the cell viability of HUVEC cells following pretreatment with NC8-pSIP409-alr-ACEIP. Flow cytometry (FCM) was used to determine the apoptosis rate of HUVEC cells. Cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase (caspase)-3/8/9 activity was also assayed and western blotting was used to determine protein expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 2 (gp91phox), angiotensin II (AngII), and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), as well as corresponding indicators of oxidative stress, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). NC8-pSIP409-alr-ACEIP attenuated H₂O₂-induced cell death, as determined by the MTT assay. NC8-pSIP409-alr-ACEIP reduced apoptosis of HUVEC cells by FCM. In addition, compared to the positive control, the oxidative stress index of the H₂O₂-induced HUVEC (Hy-HUVEC), which was pretreated by NC8-pSIP409-alr-ACEIP, iNOS, gp91phox, MDA, and ROS, was decreased obviously; SOD expression level was increased; caspase-3 or -9 was decreased, but caspase-8 did not change; Bcl-2/Bax ratio was increased; permeability changes of mitochondria were inhibited; and loss of transmembrane potential was prevented. Expression of the hypertension-related protein (AngII protein) in HUVEC cells protected by NC8-pSIP409-alr-ACEIP decreased and expression of ACE2 protein increased. These plantarum results suggested that NC8-pSIP409-alr-ACEIP protects against H₂O₂-induced injury in HUVEC cells. The mechanism for this effect is related to enhancement of antioxidant capacity and apoptosis.

Exercise-Induced Modulation of Angiotensin II Responses in Femoral Veins From 2-Kidney-1-Clip Hypertensive Rats

The present study investigated the angiotensin II (Ang II) responses in rat femoral veins taken from 2-kidney-1clip (2K1C) hypertensive rats at 4 weeks after clipping, as well as the effects of exercise on these responses. In this manner, femoral veins taken from 2K1C rats kept at rest or exposed to acute exercise or to exercise training were challenged with Ang II or endothelin-1 (ET-1) in organ bath. Simultaneously, the presence of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were determined in these preparations by western blotting. In these experiments, femoral veins exhibited subdued Ang II responses. However, after nitric oxide (NO) synthesis blockade, the responses were higher in the femoral veins taken from animals kept at rest [0.137(0.049–0.245); n = 10] than those obtained in trained animals kept at rest [0.008(0.001–0.041); n = 10] or studied after a single bout of exercise [0.001(0.001–0.054); n = 11]. In preparations in which, in addition to NO synthesis, both the local production of prostanoids and the action of ET-1 on type A (ET_A) or B (ET_B) receptors were inhibited, the differences induced by exercise were no longer observed. In addition, neither ET-1 responses nor the presence of COX-1 and COX-2 in these preparations were modified by the employed exercise protocols. In conclusion, NO maintains Ang II responses reduced in femoral veins of 2K1C animals at rest. However, vasodilator prostanoids as well as other relaxing mechanisms, activated by ET_B stimulation, are mobilized by exercise to cooperate with NO in order to maintain controlled Ang II responses in femoral veins.

Diet-induced prediabetes: effects of exercise treatment on risk factors for cardiovascular complications

BACKGROUND

An animal model of prediabetes that has been developed in our laboratory using a high fat high carbohydrate diet and lack of physical activity displays risk factors for cardiovascular complications. The effect of exercise against these risk factors in this animal model remains unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of intermittent and regular exercise treatment on the risk factors for cardiovascular complications in this animal model of prediabetes.

METHODS

Following prediabetes induction, animals were randomly assigned to the following groups (n = 6): non-diabetic, prediabetic, intermittently exercising prediabetic and regularly exercising prediabetic. Exercise exposure was 7 weeks long. Body weight changes, caloric intake, blood glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride concentration was measured after 20 and 29 weeks while blood pressure was only measured after 29 weeks. Plasma endothelial nitric oxide synthase, malonaldehyde, glutathione peroxidase, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and C-reactive protein concentration from the heart were measured 2 weeks post-exercise termination (week 30).

RESULTS

We found increased body weight, caloric intake and mean arterial pressure in the prediabetic group by comparison to the non-prediabetic group. The same trend was observed in blood glucose and triglyceride concentrations. However, all of these parameters were reduced in the intermittently exercising prediabetic and regularly exercising prediabetic groups. This reduction was further accompanied by a decrease in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and C-reactive protein concentration with improved oxidative stress biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

The progression of pre-diabetes to diabetes is slowed or possibly stopped by exercise (regular or intermittent). Additionally, biomarker profiles indicative of cardiovascular disease in pre-diabetics are improved by exercise.