Effect of exercise on oxidative stress biomarkers

Harmony in Motion: Unraveling the Nexus of Sports, Plant-Based Nutrition, and Antioxidants for Peak Performance

The intricate interplay between plant-based nutrition, antioxidants, and their impact on athletic performance forms the cornerstone of this comprehensive review. Emphasizing the pivotal importance of dietary choices in the realm of sports, this paper sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how stress and physical performance are interconnected through the lens of nutrition. The increasing interest among athletes in plant-based diets presents an opportunity with benefits for health, performance, and recovery. It is essential to investigate the connection between sports, plants, and antioxidants. Highlighting the impact of nutrition on recovery and well-being, this review emphasizes how antioxidants can help mitigate oxidative stress. Furthermore, it discusses the growing popularity of plant-based diets among athletes. It elaborates on the importance of antioxidants in combating radicals addressing stress levels while promoting cellular health. By identifying rich foods, it emphasizes the role of a balanced diet in ensuring sufficient intake of these beneficial compounds. Examining stress within the context of sports activities, this review provides insights into its mechanisms and its impact on athletic performance as well as recovery processes. This study explores the impact of plant-based diets on athletes including their types, potential advantages and challenges. It also addresses the drawbacks of relying on plant-based diets, concerns related to antioxidant supplementation and identifies areas where further research is needed. Furthermore, the review suggests directions for research and potential innovations in sports nutrition. Ultimately it brings together the aspects of sports, plant-based nutrition, and antioxidants to provide a perspective for athletes, researchers and practitioners. By consolidating existing knowledge, it offers insights that can pave the way for advancements in the ever-evolving field of sports nutrition.

Regular Sport Activity Is Able to Reduce the Level of Genomic Damage

Regular physical activity is considered one of the most valid tools capable of reducing the risk of onset of many diseases in humans. However, it is known that intense physical activity can induce high levels of genomic damage, while moderate exercise can elicit a favorable adaptive response by the organism. We evaluated, by the buccal micronuclei assay, the frequencies of micronuclei, nuclear buds and binucleated cells in a sample of amateur athletes practicing different disciplines, comparing the obtained data with those of subjects who practiced sports just occasionally and subjects that did not practice sport at all. The aim was to evaluate whether physical activity affects background levels of genomic damage and whether the different sports disciplines, as well as some gene polymorphisms, differentially affect these levels. A total of 206 subjects, 125 athletes and 81 controls, were recruited. Athletes showed significantly lower values of micronuclei, nuclear buds and binucleated cells with respect to controls. Sprinters and Martial Artists displayed significantly higher frequencies of micronuclei than other categories of athletes. Finally, neither sex nor gene polymorphisms seemed to influence the levels of genomic damage, confirming that the observed genomic damage is probably due to the nature of the sport activity.

The Influence of Single Whole-Body Cryostimulation on Cytokine Status and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers during Exhaustive Physical Effort: A Crossover Study

The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of single whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) preceding submaximal exercise on oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in professional, male athletes. The subjects (n = 32, age 25.2 ± 37) were exposed to low temperatures (−130 °C) in a cryochamber and then participated in 40 min of exercise (85% HRmax). Two weeks afterwards, the control exercise (without WBC) was performed. Blood samples were taken before the start of the study, immediately after the WBC procedure, after exercise preceded by WBC (WBC exercise) and after exercise without WBC. It has been shown that catalase activity after WBC exercise is lower in comparison with activity after control exercise. The interleukin 1β (IL-1-1β) level was higher after control exercise than after WBC exercise, after the WBC procedure and before the start of the study (p < 0.01). The WBC procedure interleukin 6 (IL-6) level was compared with the baseline level (p < 0.01). The level of Il-6 was higher both after WBC exercise and after control exercise compared with the level recorded after the WBC procedure (p < 0.05). Several significant correlations between the studied parameters were shown. In conclusion, the changes in the cytokine concentration in the athletes’ blood confirm that body exposition to extremely low temperatures before exercise could regulate the inflammatory reaction course and secretion of cytokines during exercise. A single session of WBC in the case of well-trained, male athletes does not significantly affect the level of oxidative stress indicators.

The Effect of Physical Exercise on Oxidation Capacity and Utero-Placental Circulation in Pregnancies with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Uncomplicated Pregnancies, a Pilot Study

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with aggravated oxidation capacity and utero-placental circulation, while aerobic exercise could improve both. The study aims to assess oxidation capacity and utero-placental circulation before and after a bout of aerobic exercise in GDM and uncomplicated pregnancies.; Methods: In this cross-sectional study, women with GDM (GDMs) and women with uncomplicated pregnancies(controls), underwent 30 min of moderate intensity cycling. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase activity (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), Uterine Arteries (UtA PI) and Umbilical Artery (UmA PI) pulsatility indexes were estimated prior-to, immediately after and one hour after exercise; Results: In each group, 25 pregnant women were included. In both groups, between prior-to and immediately after exercise, TAC and CAT increased, while GSH decreased, (p < 0.001). In GDMs, CAT was lower than controls at any time point (p < 0.05), while in GDMs delta(Δ) CAT (prior-to and immediately after exercise) was lower than controls (p = 0.003). In GDMs, UtA PI centiles decreased between prior-to and either immediately or one hour after exercise, while they did not change in controls. In GDMs, pre-conceptional BMI and weight gain predicted negatively ΔTAC (prior-to to one hour after exercise); Conclusions: Moderate intensity exercise bout improves oxidation capacity in GDM and uncomplicated pregnancies, although at a lesser extent in the former. Exercise leads to decreased UtA arteries resistance in women with GDM.

FGF1 alleviates LPS-induced acute lung injury via suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress

Background

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), are devastating clinical disorders with high mortality, and for which more effective therapies are urgently needed. FGF1, the prototype member of the FGF family, is shown to exert protective effects against injurious stimuli in multiple disease models. Here we aimed to evaluate whether FGF1 pretreatment is protective against LPS-induced ALI and elucidate the potential underlying mechanisms.

Methods

For drug-treated groups, C57B/6 mice received a single i.p. injection of FGF1 (1 mg/kg) 1 h before the LPS challenge or not. To induce the ALI model, the mice were treated by intratracheal instillation of LPS (5 mg/kg). Then, histopathological changes in lung tissues were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy. ELISA and qPCR assays were used to detect pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in BALF and lung tissues, respectively. The total number of inflammatory cells (neutrophils and macrophages) in BALF were counted using the Wright-Giemsa method. The expressions of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured using their respective kits. Western blot and immunostaining were used to evaluate the expressions of antioxidants (Nrf-2, HO-1, SOD2, GPX4, and Catalase), as well as the inflammatory and/or apoptosis-related factors (TLR4, NF-κB, and Cleaved- caspase 3).

Results

FGF1 pretreatment significantly ameliorated the LPS-induced histopathological changes, reduced lung wet/dry ratios, ROS and MDA levels, total BALF protein, inflammatory cell infiltration, proinflammatory cytokine levels, and significantly increased the expression of antioxidant proteins (Nrf-2, HO-1, Catalase, and SOD2). In addition, FGF1 pretreatment significantly reduced the expression of TLR4 and cleaved- caspase 3, inhibited NF-κB activation, and reduced LPS-induced cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

Altogether, our results suggest that FGF1 pretreatment is protective against LPS-induced ALI through mediating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may be attributed to the downregulation of TLR4 expression and inhibition of NF-κB activation, as well as promotion of antioxidant defenses. Therefore, FGF1 administration may prove beneficial in preventative strategies for ALI/ARDS.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10020-022-00502-8.

Short-term effects of real-time individual fine particulate matter exposure on lung function: a panel study in Zhuhai, China

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is still the primary air pollutant in most Chinese cities and its adverse effects on lung function have been widely reported. However, short-term effects of individual exposure to PM_2.5 on pulmonary expiration flow indices remain largely unknown. In this study, we examined the short-term effects of real-time individual exposure to PM_2.5 on lung function in a panel of 115 healthy adults. We measured individual real-time PM_2.5 exposure and lung function. Environmental PM_2.5 concentrations in the same period were collected from the nearest monitoring station. Generalized linear model was used to assess the effects of individual PM_2.5 exposure on lung function after adjusting for potential confounders. Individual PM_2.5 exposure ranged from 18.5 to 42.4 μg/m³ with fluctuations over time and ambient PM_2.5 concentrations presented a moderate trend of fluctuation at the same day. Except forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁) decline related to 2-h moving average PM_2.5 exposure, no significant associations between individual PM_2.5 exposure and other volume indices including forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV₁/FVC ratio were observed. The adverse effects of individual PM_2.5 exposure on pulmonary expiration flow indices including peak expiratory flow (PEF), maximal mid-expiratory flow (MMF) and forced expiratory flow at 50%, and 75% of vital capacity (FEF_50% and FEF_75%) were observed to be strongest at 2 moving average hours and could last for 24 h. Stratified analysis showed greater and longer effects among participants who were aged over 40 years, males, or smokers. These findings suggested that individual PM_2.5 exposure was significantly associated with altered lung function, especially with pulmonary expiration flow indices decline, which was strongest at 2 moving average hours and could last for 24 h.

Impact of Physical Activity on Oxidative Stress Markers in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Purpose

Regular physical activity (PA) can affect oxidative stress, known to be involved in carcinogenesis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the associations between a six-month PA intervention and oxidative stress biomarkers, PA, and clinical outcomes in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Methods

Forty-nine newly diagnosed patients with metastatic breast cancer were recruited for a single-arm, unsupervised, and personalized six-month walking intervention with activity tracker. PA level and PA fitness, plasma concentrations of DNA oxidation (8OhdG), lipid peroxidation (MDA), and protein oxidation (AOPP), plasma activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and catalase, plasma and leucocyte activities of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and NADPH oxidase (NOX), and clinical markers of tumor progression (RECIST criteria) were measured at baseline and after the six-month intervention.

Results

GPX activity (+17%) and MDA (+9%) significantly increased between baseline and the end of the intervention. Changes in PA level and fitness were significantly positively correlated with changes in plasma GPX and significantly negatively with changes in NOX in the leucocytes. Plasma MDA was significantly higher (+20%) whereas plasma AOPP was lower (-46%) for patients with tumor progression or that died during the six months as compared to patients without progression.

Conclusion

A six-month PA intervention may be potentially beneficial in metastatic breast cancer patients for enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and decreasing prooxidant enzyme activity. Moreover, AOPP and MDA could also be favorable and unfavorable biomarkers, respectively, since they are associated with disease progression and fitness level in this population. This trial is registered with NCT number: NCT03148886.

The Effects of Beverage Intake after Exhaustive Exercise on Organ Damage, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Healthy Males

Strenuous exercise induces organ damage, inflammation and oxidative stress. To prevent exercise-induced organ damage, inflammation and oxidative stress, rehydrating may be an effective strategy. In the present study, we aimed to examine whether beverage intake after exhaustive exercise to recover from dehydration prevents such disorders. Thirteen male volunteers performed incremental cycling exercise until exhaustion. Immediately after exercise, the subjects drank an electrolyte containing water (rehydrate trial: REH) or did not drink any beverage (control trial: CON). Blood samples were collected before (Pre), immediately (Post), 1 h and 2 h after exercise. Urine samples were also collected before (Pre) and 2 h after exercise. We measured biomarkers of organ damage, inflammation and oxidative stress in blood and urine. Biomarkers of muscle, renal and intestinal damage and inflammation increased in the blood and urine after exercise. However, changes in biomarkers of organ damage and inflammation did not differ between trials (p > 0.05). The biomarker of oxidative stress, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), in plasma, showed different changes between trials (p = 0.027). One hour after exercise, plasma TBARS concentration in REH had a higher trend than that in CON (p = 0.052), but there were no significant differences between Pre and the other time points in each trial. These results suggest that beverage intake after exercise does not attenuate exercise-induced organ damage, inflammation or oxidative stress in healthy males. However, rehydration restores exercise-induced oxidative stress more quickly.

Physical Activity and Male Reproductive Function: A New Role for Gamete Mitochondria

Several studies demonstrated that some types of physical exercise might affect male reproductive potential, even though the potential mechanisms involved in the modulation of sperm quality remain poorly understood. Therefore, we propose a new role for gamete mitochondria as a key hub that coordinates molecular events related to the effects induced by physical exercise.

Changes in Urinary Biomarkers of Organ Damage, Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Bone Turnover Following a 3000-m Time Trial

Strenuous exercise induces organ damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Currently, to monitor or investigate physiological conditions, blood biomarkers are frequently used. However, blood sampling is perceived to be an invasive method and may induce stress. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a non-invasive assessment method that reflects physiological conditions. In the present study, we aimed to search for useful biomarkers of organ damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and bone turnover in urine following exercise. Ten male runners participated in this study and performed a 3000-m time trial. We measured biomarkers in urine collected before and immediately after exercise. Renal damage markers such as urea protein, albumin, N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), and liver-fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP), and an intestinal damage marker, intestine-fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP), increased following exercise (p < 0.05). However, a muscle damage marker, titin N-terminal fragments, did not change (p > 0.05). Inflammation-related factors (IRFs), such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), IL-6, complement (C) 5a, myeloperoxidase (MPO), calprotectin, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), increased whereas IRFs such as IL-4 and IL-10 decreased following exercise (p < 0.05). IRFs such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-2, IL-8, IL-12p40, and interferon (IFN)-γ did not change (p > 0.05). Oxidative stress markers, such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and nitrotyrosine, did not change following exercise (p > 0.05) whereas 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) decreased (p < 0.05). Bone resorption markers, such as cross-linked N-telopeptide of type I collagen (NTX) and deoxypyridinoline (DPD), did not change following exercise (p > 0.05). These results suggest that organ damage markers and IRFs in urine have the potential to act as non-invasive indicators to evaluate the effects of exercise on organ functions.

Acute Effects of Oatmeal on Exercise-Induced Reactive Oxygen Species Production Following High-Intensity Interval Training in Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been demonstrated to increase the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, strategies to mitigate excessive ROS productions could be useful to reduce the negative consequences of oxidative damage for health, as well as for physical, performances. The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of pre-exercise oatmeal consumption on exercise-induced ROS generation in young, healthy women. Thirty-four participants were randomly allocated in one of two groups: oatmeal prior to HIIT (oatmeal; n = 17) or HIIT alone (control; n = 17). Blood samples were obtained at pre-meal, pre-HIIT, immediately post-HIIT, and 15 min after HIIT. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was used to analyze the concentrations of ROS in the capillary blood. In addition, the blood glucose and blood lactate levels were measured. Immediately post-HIIT, the ROS generation in the oatmeal group was significantly lower in contrast to the control group (p < 0.05). A significant interaction effect of time × meal (p < 0.05; η² = 0.234) was detected from the pre-meal to 15 post-HIIT for ROS production. Moreover, significant differences in the blood glucose levels were observed between the groups at pre-HIIT and immediately post-HIIT (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the consumption of oatmeal before HIIT may mitigate exercise-induced ROS production.

Vascular and Microvascular Dysfunction Induced by Microgravity and Its Analogs in Humans: Mechanisms and Countermeasures

Weightlessness and physical inactivity have deleterious cardiovascular effects. The space environment and its ground-based models offer conditions to study the cardiovascular effects of physical inactivity in the absence of other vascular risk factors, particularly at the macro- and microcirculatory levels. However, the mechanisms involved in vascular dysfunction and remodeling are not sufficiently studied in the context of weightlessness and its analogs including models of physical inactivity. Here, we summarize vascular and microvascular changes induced by space flight and observed in models of microgravity and physical inactivity and review the effects of prophylactic strategies (i.e., countermeasures) on vascular and microvascular function. We discuss physical (e.g., exercise, vibration, lower body negative pressure, and artificial gravity) and nutritional/pharmacological (e.g., caloric restriction, resveratrol, and other vegetal extracts) countermeasures. Currently, exercise countermeasure appears to be the most effective to protect vascular function. Although pharmacological countermeasures are not currently considered to fight vascular changes due to microgravity, nutritional countermeasures are very promising. Dietary supplements/natural health products, especially plant extracts, should be extensively studied. The best prophylactic strategy is likely a combination of countermeasures that are effective not only at the cardiovascular level but also for the organism as a whole, but this strategy remains to be determined.

Acute partial sleep deprivation and high-intensity interval exercise effects on postprandial endothelial function

PURPOSE

Acute-total and chronic-partial sleep deprivation increase the risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardiovascular function assessed by flow mediated dilation (FMD) is reduced after sleep deprivation. High-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) improves postprandial FMD. Sleep-deprived individuals may practice HIIE followed by a high-fat breakfast. This study investigated the acute-partial sleep deprivation (APSD) and HIIE interaction on postprandial FMD.

METHODS

Fifteen healthy males (age 31 ± 5 years) participated in: (a) reference sleep (~ 9.5 h) with no HIIE (RS), (b) RS and HIIE (RSX), and (c) APSD and HIIE (SSX). HIIE was performed in 3:2 min intervals at 90% and 40% of VO₂ reserve. FMD was assessed the night before (D1), the morning of the next day (D2), 1 h (1hrPE) and 4 h post HIIE (4hrPE).

RESULTS

FMD% change was lower at RS compared to both RSX (F_1,14 = 23.96, p < 0.001, η² = 0.631) and SSX (F_1,14 = 4.8, p = 0.47, η² = 0.253) at 1hrPE. RSX and SSX did not differ at 1hrPE (F_1,14 = 0.2, p = 0.889, η² = 0.001), but SSX elicited greater FDM responses. Absolute FMD change was lower at RS compared to both RSX (F_1,14 = 21.5, p < 0.001, η² = 0.606) and SSX (F_1,14 = 7.01, p = 0.019, η² = 0.336) at 1hrPE. RSX and SSX did not differ at 1hrPE (F_1,14 = .03, p = 0.858, η² = 0.002), but SSX elicited greater FDM responses.

CONCLUSIONS

HIIE short-term effects on cardiovascular function remain cardioprotective even after an acute-partial sleep deprivation.

Association of Carotenoids Concentration in Blood with Physical Performance in Korean Adolescents: The 2018 National Fitness Award Project

Adolescent physical performance is not only dependent on exercise but also on the role of antioxidants obtained through a healthy diet. However, few studies have specifically identified the relationship between carotenoids, a common antioxidant, and physical performance. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the association between the level of carotenoids in the blood and physical performance among Korean adolescents aged 13 to 18 years. The study sample consisted of 450 participants (190 males, 260 females) from the 2018 National Fitness Award project. In boys, multiple regression analysis after adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, drinking, and physical activity revealed that the α-carotene level was positively associated with a 20-m progressive aerobic cardiovascular endurance run (PACER) (β = 5.350, p < 0.05) and estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max) (β = 1.049, p < 0.05). In girls, after adjustment for age, BMI, smoking, drinking, and physical activity, the levels of α-carotene were positively associated with a 20-m PACER (β = 3.290, p < 0.05), VO_2max (β = 0.644, p < 0.05) and curl-up (β = 5.782, p < 0.05), and β-carotene (β = 2.983, p < 0.05) and total carotenoids (β = 4.248, p < 0.05) were positively associated with curl-up. Our results suggest that an increased level of carotenoids in the blood may be associated with better physical performance among adolescents in Korea.

Differential time responses in inflammatory and oxidative stress markers after a marathon: An observational study

Acute and adaptive changes in systemic markers of oxidatively generated nucleic acid modifications (i.e., 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine (8-oxoGuo)) as well as inflammatory cytokines (i.e., C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, and tumour necrosis factor alpha), a liver hormone (i.e., fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21)), and bone metabolism markers (sclerostin, osteocalcin, C-terminal telopeptide, and N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen) were investigated following a marathon in 20 study participants. Immediate changes were observed in inflammatory cytokines, FGF21, and bone metabolism markers following the marathon. In contrast, no immediate changes in urinary excretion of 8-oxodG and 8-oxoGuo were evident. Four days after the marathon, decreased urinary excretion of 8-oxodG (-2.9 (95% CI -4.8;-1.1) nmol/24 h, P < 0.01) and 8-oxoGuo (-5.8 (95% CI -10.3;-1.3) nmol/24 h, P = 0.02) was observed. The excretion rate of 8-oxodG remained decreased 7 days after the marathon compared to baseline (-2.3 (95%CI -4.3;-0.4) nmol/24 h, P = 0.02), whereas the excretion rate of 8-oxoGuo was normalized. In conclusion marathon participation immediately induced a considerable inflammatory response, but did not increase excretion rates of oxidatively generated nucleic acid modifications. In fact, a delayed decrease in oxidatively generated nucleic acid modifications was observed suggesting adaptive antioxidative effects following exercise.

ABBREVIATIONS

8-oxodG: 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine; 8-oxoGuo: 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine; CI: confidence interval; CTX: C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen; DXA: dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; FGF21: Fibroblast growth factor 21; h: hour; hsCRP: high sensitivity C-reactive protein; IL: interleukin; IQR: interquartile range; MS: mass spectrometry: P1NP: N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen; TNFα: tumour necrosis factor alpha; UPLC: ultra-performance liquid chromatography.

Effects of Aerobic-, Anaerobic- and Combined-Based Exercises on Plasma Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Healthy Untrained Young Adults

Currently, it is well accepted that physical exercise-induced oxidative stress may damage biological structures and impair cellular functions. However, it is still unclear which type of exercise results in the greatest oxidative stress responses among a healthy untrained population. The aim of the present study was to compare the acute oxidative stress response (i.e., 0 to 20 min) following different types of exercise (anaerobic, aerobic, and combined). Ten healthy, untrained males (19.5 ± 1.7 years) performed three randomized exercise bouts: anaerobic (30 s Wingate test), aerobic (30 min at 60% maximal aerobic power (MAP)) or combined (anaerobic and aerobic). Venous blood samples were collected before, as well as at 0 (P0), 5 (P5), 10 (P10), and 20 (P20) min after each session. Rates of malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant activities (i.e., glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), α-tocopherol, and total antioxidant status (TAS)) were assessed. Independent of exercise type, plasma MDA, GPX, SOD, and GR contents increased above baseline, whereas plasma α-tocopherol decreased under baseline after the test sessions (p < 0.05). Aerobic and anaerobic exercises generated faster responses (at P0) when compared to the combined exercise (P5 to P10) for the majority of the tested parameters. Plasma TAS content only increased following the aerobic exercise at P10 (p = 0.03). Five to twenty-minutes post exercise, the highest MDA response was registered in the aerobic condition, and the highest GPX and SOD responses were recorded in the anaerobic (at P5) and aerobic (at P20) conditions (p < 0.05). In conclusion, aerobic, anaerobic, or combined exercises have the potential to acutely increase oxidative stress and antioxidant activities, but with different responses magnitude. These findings confirm that oxidative stress response seems to be dependent on the intensity and the duration of the physical exercise and may help in understanding how varying exercise bouts influence the degree of oxidative stress among healthy untrained young adults.

Effects of moderate and high intensity isocaloric aerobic training upon microvascular reactivity and myocardial oxidative stress in rats

Systemic and central cardiovascular adaptations may vary in response to chronic exercise performed with different intensities and volumes. This study compared the effects of aerobic training with different intensities but equivalent volume upon microvascular reactivity in cremaster muscle and myocardial biomarkers of oxidative stress in Wistar rats. After peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak) assessment, rats (n = 24) were assigned into three groups: moderate-intensity exercise training (MI); high-intensity exercise training (HI); sedentary control (SC). Treadmill training occurred during 4 weeks, with exercise bouts matched by the energy expenditure (3.0–3.5 Kcal). Microvascular reactivity was assessed in vivo by intravital microscopy in cremaster muscle arterioles, while biomarkers of oxidative stress and eNOS expression were quantified at left ventricle and at aorta, respectively. Similar increasing vs. sedentary control group (SC) occurred in moderate intensity training group (MI) and high-intensity training group (HI) for endothelium-dependent vasodilation (10^-4M: MI: 168.7%, HI: 164.6% vs. SC: 146.6%, P = 0.0004). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) (HI: 0.13 U/mg vs. MI: 0.09 U/mg and SC: 0.06 U/mg; P = 0.02), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) (HI: 0.00038 U/mg vs. MI: 0.00034 U/mg and SC: 0.00024 U/mg; P = 0.04), and carbonyl protein content (HI: 0.04 U/mg vs. MI: 0.03 U/mg and SC: 0.01 U/mg; P = 0.003) increased only in HI. No difference across groups was detected for catalase (CAT) (P = 0.12), Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (P = 0.38) or eNOS expression in aorta (P = 0.44). In conclusion, higher exercise intensity induced greater improvements in myocardium antioxidant defenses, while gains in microvascular reactivity appeared to rely more on exercise volume than intensity.

Correlation of glutathione reductase activity distribution in the blood serum and tissues of white unborn rats

It is known that the majority of pathological processes take place against the background of formation of active oxygen species and intensification of free radical oxidation of bio-substrates. In response to this, the antioxidant system of the cell is activated, and the glutathione system is an important link in this system. The latter can take part in the maintenance of the optimal state of biomembranes, in the processes of detoxification, antioxidant protection, etc. The biological role of glutathione reductase is to maintain high intracellular concentration of reduced glutathione. The aim of our study was to study the relationship between the distribution of glutathione reductase activity in blood serum and rat tissues. In order to achieve the goal of the study the following tasks were solved: the activity of glutathione reductase in blood serum and tissues of liver, brain, heart, as well as in skeletal muscle tissues of rats was determined; the interrelation of the activity distribution of glutathione reductase in blood serum and tissues of rats was revealed. The article presents the results of nonparametric correlation analysis to assess the relationship between the distribution of glutathione reductase activity in blood serum and tissues of small experimental animals.

Combination of exercise training and L-arginine reverses aging process through suppression of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the rat heart

Aging-induced progressive decline of molecular and metabolic factors in the myocardium is suggested to be related with heart dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of exercise training and L-arginine supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in ventricle of the aging rat heart. Twenty-four 24-month-aged Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: the aged control, aged exercise, aged L-arginine (orally administered with 150 mg/kg for 12 weeks), and aged exercise + L-arginine groups. Six 4-month-old rats were also considered the young control. Animals with training program performed exercise on a treadmill 5 days/week for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, protein levels of Bax, Bcl-2, pro-caspase-3/cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome C, and heat shock protein (HSP)-70 were assessed. Tissue contents of total anti-oxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 were analyzed. Histological and fibrotic changes were also evaluated. Treadmill exercise and L-arginine supplementation significantly alleviated aging-induced apoptosis with enhancing HSP-70 expression, increasing anti-oxidant enzyme activity, and suppressing inflammatory markers in the cardiac myocytes. Potent attenuation in apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress was indicated in the rats with the combination of L-arginine supplementation and exercise program in comparison with each group (p < 0.05). In addition, fibrosis percentage and collagen accumulation were significantly lower in the rats with the combination treatment of L-arginine and exercise (p < 0.05). Treadmill exercise and L-arginine supplementation provided protection against age-induced increase in the myocyte loss and formation of fibrosis in the ventricle through potent suppression of oxidative stress, inflammations, and apoptosis pathways.

Physical activity and depression: Towards understanding the antidepressant mechanisms of physical activity

Physical activity can treat and prevent depressive symptoms, but its antidepressant mechanisms are yet to be established. In this review, we comprehensively assess key biological and psychosocial mechanisms through which physical activity exerts antidepressant effects, with a particular focus on exercise. Exercise, a subset of physical activity, influences a range of biological and psychosocial processes also implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. We focus on the capacity for exercise to elicit changes in neuroplasticity, inflammation, oxidative stress, the endocrine system, self-esteem, social support and self-efficacy. We also discuss how a better understanding of these mechanisms can inform the way we design and implement exercise-based interventions to maximise their antidepressant effects on an individual basis. We conclude by presenting a conceptual framework of the key biological and psychosocial mechanisms underlying the relationship between physical activity and depressive symptoms, and the moderators and confounders that may influence it.

Independent and Combined Effects of All-Out Sprint and Low-Intensity Continuous Exercise on Plasma Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Trained Judokas

The purpose of this study was to assess oxidative stress biomarkers prior to and following different forms of exercise. Ten elite male judokas (age: 18.1 ± 1.7 years, athletic experience: 6 years with a training frequency of 6 Judo-sessions/week) performed three cycle ergometry sessions comprising a 30 s Wingate test (MAX), 30 min at 60% maximal-aerobic-power-output (LOW) or these two exercise protocols combined (COMBINED) in a repeated-measures design. Venous blood-samples were collected before, and 0(P0), 5(P5), 10(P10) and 20(P20) min after each exercise protocol and assessed for malondialdehyde concentration ([MDA]), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione reductase (GR) content, and total-antioxidant-status (TAS). Plasma [MDA] was found to be increased above baseline at P0 and P5 in the MAX, LOW and COMBINED conditions (p < 0.05), but was greater at P10 and P20 in the LOW condition compared to MAX and COMBINED conditions (p < 0.05). Blood GPX and SOD content increased above baseline at P0 in MAX and COMBINED and at P5 in LOW (p < 0.05), with GR content being similar between groups at P0 and P5 (p > 0.05). 20 min post-exercise, GPX, SOD, GR content and TAS were lower in the MAX compared to the LOW and COMBINED conditions (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the findings from this study reveal that redox-related biomarkers exhibited divergent response dynamics following different forms of exercise, which might have implications for understanding the mechanisms of exercise-induced skeletal muscle fatigue and adaptive remodeling.

Effect of Coenzyme Q10 Alone and in Combination with Exercise Training on Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Rats

Aim: This study aimed to determine the effect of exercise training alone and in combination with coenzyme Q10 (Q10) supplementation on the Q10 level, oxidative damage, and antioxidant defense markers in blood and skeletal muscle tissue in young and aged rats. Methods: The study included 4-month old (young) and 20-month old (aged) rats. Each group was further divided into control, exercise training, Q10 supplementation, and Q10 supplementation plus exercise training groups. The exercise training program consisted of swimming for 8 weeks, and Q10 or vehicle during the same period. Results: The Q10 concentration in plasma (P < 0.05), but not in skeletal muscle (P > 0.05) increased significantly following Q10 supplementation in both the young and aged rats. Plasma SOD and CAT activity were significantly higher in the aged rats in the Q10 and Q10 plus exercise training groups than in the other groups (P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference between the groups in skeletal muscle (P > 0.05). Additionally, plasma and skeletal GSH levels did not differ between the groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The present findings indicate that Q10 supplementation increased the Q10 concentration in blood but not in skeletal muscle tissue. On the other hand, Q10 administration alone and in combination with exercise challenge improved antioxidant enzyme capacity especially in the aged rats.

The effect of fitness level on cardiac autonomic regulation, IL-6, total antioxidant capacity, and muscle damage responses to a single bout of high-intensity interval training

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the cardiorespiratory fitness level on the response to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with an individually adjusted running speed of the same relative intensity. The evaluation focused on acute cardiorespiratory response, postexercise cardiac autonomic modulation (heart rate variability (HRV)) and biochemical markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and muscle damage.

METHODS

Thirty participants were divided into 3 subgroups: well trained, moderately trained, and untrained. All the participants performed 30 min HIIT composed of 6 × 2 min interval exercise with work-to-relief ratio = 1 and work intensity 100% of individual velocity at maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2​max). Acute cardiorespiratory variables, postexercise HRV, lactate, interleukin-6 (IL-6), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), creatine kinase, and myoglobin up to 4 h after HIIT were monitored.

RESULTS

The differences in relatively expressed cardiorespiratory variables (heart rate, VO₂) during HIIT were at most moderate, with the most pronounced between-group differences in absolute VO₂ values. The disruption of the postexercise HRV was the most pronounced in untrained individuals, and this difference persisted 1 h after HIIT. The highest postexercise IL-6 and TAC concentrations and the lowest changes in creatine kinase and myoglobin were revealed in well-trained individuals.

CONCLUSION

The higher fitness level was associated with the less pronounced postexercise cardiac autonomic changes and their faster restoration, even when there were similar acute cardiorespiratory responses. These findings were simultaneously accompanied by the higher postexercise IL-6 and TAC concentrations and less significant changes in muscle damage biochemical markers in well-trained individuals.

An 8-Week Low-Intensity Progressive Cycling Training Improves Motor Functions in Patients with Early-Stage Parkinson's Disease

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The effects of high-intensity cycling as an adjuvant therapy for early-stage Parkinson's disease (PD) were highlighted recently. However, patients experience difficulties in maintaining these cycling training programs. The present study investigated the efficacy of cycling at a mild-to-moderate intensity in early-stage PD.

METHODS

Thirteen PD patients were enrolled for 16 serial cycling sessions over a 2-month period. Motor function was assessed using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS III) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test as primary outcomes. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), modified Hoehn and Yahr Stage (mHYS), total UPDRS, Falls Efficacy Scale, New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire, Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living, 39-item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire, Patient Global Impression of Change, and gait performance were assessed as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The age and the age at onset were 59.67±7.24 and 53.23±10.26 years (mean±SD), respectively. The cycling cadence was 53.27±8.92 revolutions per minute. The UPDRS III score improved significantly after 8 training sessions (p=0.011) and 16 training sessions (T2) (p=0.001) in the off-state, and at T2 (p=0.004) in the on-state compared to pretraining (T0). The TUG duration was significantly shorter at T2 than at T0 (p<0.05). The findings of MoCA, total UPDRS, double limb support time, and mHYS (in both the off- and on-states) also improved significantly at T2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our pioneer study has demonstrated that a low-intensity progressive cycling exercise can improve motor function in PD, especially akinesia. The beneficial effects were similar to those of high-intensity rehabilitation programs.

The effects of exercise on depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors as well as lung and hippocampus oxidative stress in ovalbumin-sensitized juvenile rats

Allergic asthma during early life period has been reported to be associated with neurochemical and behavioral disorders, including anxiety and depression. We aimed to determine the effects of exercise on depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors as well as lung and hippocampus oxidative stress in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized juvenile rats. Animals were divided into 4 groups including control (non-exercised and non-sensitized), Exe (exercise and non-sensitized); OVA (non-exercised and OVA-sensitized); and OVA+Exe (exercised and OVA-sensitized). The rats were subjected to chronic OVA sensitization followed by 4 weeks of treadmill exercise training. Compared to the control group, the OVA group had an increase in anxiety- and depressive-like behavior, lung inflammation, and oxidative stress index in the lung and hippocampus. Compared to the OVA group, the OVA+Exe group had a decline in anxiety- and depressive-like behavior, lung inflammation, and oxidative stress index in the lung and hippocampus. No significant difference in terms of the above-mentioned parameters, were found between the control group and the Exe group. Exercise decreased depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in OVA-sensitized juvenile rats; this effect might have been mainly mediated by improvement in antioxidant system.

Effect of a 2000-m running test on antioxidant and cytokine response in plasma and circulating cells

Exercise intensity usually correlates with increased oxidative stress and enhanced cytokine production. However, it is unknown if all types of exercise that induce muscle damage can cause a parallel response in the oxidation balance and cytokine production. To this end, the effect of a 2000-m running test in a group of volunteers that regularly train in aerobic routines was studied. Different circulating parameters were measured, oxidative stress markers (protein carbonyls and malondialdehyde), antioxidant enzyme activity, and cytokine levels in plasma as well as in the main circulating cells of blood samples obtained in basal conditions and after test execution. As a result, the test caused muscle damage evidenced by an increase in circulating creatine kinase and myoglobin. This was accompanied by an increase in protein carbonyls in plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Activities of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase and reductase, superoxide dismutase) were elevated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, neutrophils, and erythrocytes after the test. Regarding cytokine production, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interleukin-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α exhibited no significant changes after the test. Results suggest that this short but intense running exercise (2000 m) can induce muscle damage and elicit a good balance between oxidant/antioxidant responses with no changes in the circulating concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

The Oxidative Stress Response in Elite Water Polo Players: Effects of Genetic Background

Acute exercise is known to induce oxidative stress. Here we assessed the effects of gene polymorphisms SOD2 A16V, CAT −844 G>A, and GPx-1 rs1800668 C>T on oxidative stress markers in 28 elite water polo male players prior to and after a routinely programmed friendly match. The mean plasma concentrations of derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (dROMs), as well as lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, creatine kinase (CK) activity, CK-MB, and myoglobin, were significantly increased after exercise, while blood antioxidant potential (BAP) and total free thiols were significantly decreased, compared with those measured before exercise. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) were also increased after exercise but not significantly. We observed that water polo players having either AV16 or VV16 SOD genotype exhibited a significant increase of postexercise AOPP, LDH, CK, and myoglobin plasma levels in comparison with wild-type athletes. Water polo players having either CAT −844 GA or GPx1 CT genotype showed a significant increase of postexercise dROMs plasma levels and, respectively, GPx and CAT enzyme activities in comparison with wild-type subjects. These preliminary results suggest that the screening for gene variants of antioxidant enzymes could be useful to assess individual susceptibility to oxidative stress and muscle damage in water polo players.

Effect of Short-term Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation and Precooling on Serum Endogenous Antioxidant Enzymes of Elite Swimmers

Emami, A, Tofighi, A, Asri-Rezaei, S, and Bazargani-Gilani, B. Effect of short-term coenzyme Q10 supplementation and precooling on serum endogenous antioxidant enzymes of elite swimmers. J Strength Cond Res 32(5): 1431-1439, 2018-This study aimed to investigate the effect of the use of a 2-week precooling strategy and supplementation coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in elite, adolescent swimmers during heavy and regular trainings and recording of freestyle swimming. Thirty-six healthy males (mean ± SD; age: 17.5 ± 1.1 years, body fat content: 14.55 ± 1.75%) were randomly selected and divided into 4 groups of CoQ10 (300 mg·d), precooling (immersion in the water at 18 ± 0.5° C), supplementation with precooling, and control, each with 9 participants. During an 18-session protocol in the morning and evening, participants attended speed and endurance trainings for 5 km every session. A 3-stage blood sampling was conducted before the first recording and before and after the second recording in 800, 200, and 50 m. Repeated measurement and the Bonferroni correction were used for the statistical analyses of the data (α = 0.05). According to the results, there was no significant difference between the mean serum level of SOD, CAT, and GPx in the groups at the first stage of blood sampling (p > 0.05). At the third stage, a significant difference was observed among all groups (p < 0.05). At the second stage, precooling and control groups show a significant increase compared with the supplementation and supplementation with precooling groups (p < 0.05). As an antioxidant essential for adenosine triphosphate synthesis, CoQ10 supplementation prevented adverse changes of antioxidant enzymes during heavy trainings and swimming recording and decreased the serum level, while precooling individually increased serum level of antioxidant enzymes by itself.

Role of Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress in Sickle Cell Trait and Disease

Sickle cell disease is a class of hemoglobinopathy in humans, which is the most common inherited disease in the world. Although complications of sickle cell disease start from polymerization of red blood cells during its deoxygenating phase, the oxidative stress resulting from the biological processes associated with this disease (ischaemic and hypoxic injuries, hemolysis and inflammation) has been shown to contribute to its pathophysiology. It is widely known that chronic exercise reduces oxidative stress in healthy people, mainly via improvement of antioxidant enzyme efficiency. In addition, recent studies in other diseases, as well as in sickle cell trait carriers and in a mouse model of sickle cell disease, have shown that regular physical activity could decrease oxidative stress. The purpose of this review is to summarize the role of oxidative stress in sickle cell disease and the effects of acute and chronic exercise on the pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance in sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease.

IL-6, Antioxidant Capacity and Muscle Damage Markers Following High-Intensity Interval Training Protocols

The aim of this study was to investigate changes of interleukin-6 (IL-6), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and muscle damage markers (creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)) in response to three different high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocols of identical external work. Twelve moderately-trained males participated in the three HIIT trials which consisted of a warm-up, followed by 12 min of 15 s, 30 s or 60 s HIIT sequences with the work/rest ratio 1. The biochemical markers of inflammation, oxidative stress and muscle damage were analysed POST, 3 h and 24 h after the exercise. All HIIT protocols caused an immediate increase in IL-6, TAC, CK, myoglobin and LDH. The most pronounced between-trials differences were found for the POST-exercise changes in IL-6 (Effect size ± 90% confidence interval: 1.51 ± 0.63, 0.84 ± 0.34 and 1.80 ± 0.60 for the 15s/15s, 30s/30s and 60s/60s protocol, respectively) and myoglobin (1.11 ± 0.29, 0.45 ± 0.48 and 1.09 ± 0.22 for the 15s/15s, 30s/30s and 60s/60s protocol, respectively). There were no substantial between-trial differences in other biochemical variables. In conclusion, the 15s/15s and 60s/60s protocols might be preferred to the 30s/30s protocols in order to maximize the training stimulus.

Effect of aerobic exercise intervention on DDT degradation and oxidative stress in rats

Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) reportedly causes extensively acute or chronic effects to human health. Exercise can generate positive stress. We evaluated the effect of aerobic exercise on DDT degradation and oxidative stress.

Main methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into control (C), DDT without exercise training (D), and DDT plus exercise training (DE) groups. The rats were treated as follows: DDT exposure to D and DE groups at the first 2 weeks; aerobic exercise treatment only to the DE group from the 1st day until the rats are killed. DDT levels in excrements, muscle, liver, serum, and hearts were analyzed. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined. Aerobic exercise accelerated the degradation of DDT primarily to DDE due to better oxygen availability and aerobic condition and promoted the degradation of DDT. Cumulative oxidative damage of DDT and exercise led to significant decrease of SOD level. Exercise resulted in consistent increase in SOD activity. Aerobic exercise enhanced activities of CAT and GSH-Px and promoted MDA scavenging. Results suggested that exercise can accelerate adaptive responses to oxidative stress and activate antioxidant enzymes activities. Exercise can also facilitate the reduction of DDT-induced oxidative damage and promoted DDT degradation. This study strongly implicated the positive effect of exercise training on DDT-induced liver oxidative stress.

Exercise and Glycemic Control: Focus on Redox Homeostasis and Redox-Sensitive Protein Signaling

Physical inactivity, excess energy consumption, and obesity are associated with elevated systemic oxidative stress and the sustained activation of redox-sensitive stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways. Sustained SAPK activation leads to aberrant insulin signaling, impaired glycemic control, and the development and progression of cardiometabolic disease. Paradoxically, acute exercise transiently increases oxidative stress and SAPK signaling, yet postexercise glycemic control and skeletal muscle function are enhanced. Furthermore, regular exercise leads to the upregulation of antioxidant defense, which likely assists in the mitigation of chronic oxidative stress-associated disease. In this review, we explore the complex spatiotemporal interplay between exercise, oxidative stress, and glycemic control, and highlight exercise-induced reactive oxygen species and redox-sensitive protein signaling as important regulators of glucose homeostasis.

Oxidative Stress Implications in the Affective Disorders: Main Biomarkers, Animal Models Relevance, Genetic Perspectives, and Antioxidant Approaches

The correlation between the affective disorders and the almost ubiquitous pathological oxidative stress can be described in a multifactorial way, as an important mechanism of central nervous system impairment. Whether the obvious changes which occur in oxidative balance of the affective disorders are a part of the constitutive mechanism or a collateral effect yet remains as an interesting question. However it is now clear that oxidative stress is a component of these disorders, being characterized by different aspects in a disease-dependent manner. Still, there are a lot of controversies regarding the relevance of the oxidative stress status in most of the affective disorders and despite the fact that most of the studies are showing that the affective disorders development can be correlated to increased oxidative levels, there are various studies stating that oxidative stress is not linked with the mood changing tendencies. Thus, in this minireview we decided to describe the way in which oxidative stress is involved in the affective disorders development, by focusing on the main oxidative stress markers that could be used mechanistically and therapeutically in these deficiencies, the genetic perspectives, some antioxidant approaches, and the relevance of some animal models studies in this context.

Creatine supplementation decreases plasma lipid peroxidation markers and enhances anaerobic performance in rats

OBJECTIVE

The study was to investigate the effects of creatine (Cr) supplementation on oxidative stress markers and anaerobic performance in rats.

METHODS

Sixty-four rats (Wistar) were divided into two groups: C, anaerobic exercised group (n = 32) and Cr, anaerobic exercised group supplemented with creatine (n = 32). Cr supplementation consisted of the addition of 2% Cr monohydrate to the diet. After 28 days, the rats performed acute exercise (6 × 30 seconds of vertical jumps in the water with 30 seconds rest and 50% of total body weight load attached in the back). The animals were euthanized before (pre) and at 0, 2, and 6 hours (n = 8) after acute exercise.

RESULTS

Acute exercise induced an increase in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), as well as increased total lipid hydroperoxides and AOPP in gastrocnemius muscle. Cr supplementation inhibited the formation of MDA and lipid hydroperoxides in plasma. However, the antioxidant action of Cr was observed only against AOPP in gastrocnemius muscle. Cr supplementation also increased (P < 0.05) anaerobic performance compared to the C group.

CONCLUSION

Cr supplementation is able to inhibit the increase in plasma lipid peroxidation markers induced by high-intensity and short-duration exercise in rats; equivalent actions, however, were not observed fully in muscle tissue.

Effects of vitamin D and quercetin, alone and in combination, on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle function in physically active male adults

Introduction

Vitamin D and the antioxidant quercetin, are promising agents for improving physical performance because of their possible beneficial effects on muscular strength and cardiorespiratory fitness.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of increased intakes of vitamin D, quercetin, and their combination on antioxidant status, the steroid hormone regulators of muscle function, and measures of physical performance in apparently healthy male adults engaged in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity exercise training.

Methods

A total of 40 adult male participants were randomized to either 4,000 IU vitamin D/d, 1,000 mg/d quercetin, vitamin D plus quercetin, or placebo for 8 weeks. Measures of cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle function, blood markers for antioxidant and vitamin D status, and hormones 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ (1,25(OH)₂D₃) and testosterone were measured pre- and postsupplementation.

Results

At enrollment, 88.6% of participants were vitamin D sufficient (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D >50 nmol/L) and had normal serum testosterone levels. Supplementation with vitamin D significantly increased serum 25(OH)D concentration (by 87.3% in the vitamin D group, P<0.001) and was associated with an increasing trend of testosterone concentration. There were no changes in concentration of 1,25(OH)₂D₃ and markers of antioxidant status associated with vitamin D or quercetin supplementation. No improvements in physical performance measures associated with vitamin D and quercetin supplementation were found.

Conclusion

The findings obtained demonstrate that long-term vitamin D and quercetin supplementation, alone or in combination, does not improve physical performance in male adults with adequate vitamin D, testosterone, and antioxidant status.

A systematic review of the biomarker S100B: implications for sport-related concussion management

OBJECTIVE

Elevated levels of the astroglial protein S100B have been shown to predict sport-related concussion. However, S100B levels within an athlete can vary depending on the type of physical activity (PA) engaged in and the methodologic approach used to measure them. Thus, appropriate reference values in the diagnosis of concussed athletes remain undefined. The purpose of our systematic literature review was to provide an overview of the current literature examining S100B measurement in the context of PA. The overall goal is to improve the use of the biomarker S100B in the context of sport-related concussion management.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, SciVerse Scopus, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, and Cochrane.

STUDY SELECTION

We selected articles that contained (1) research studies focusing exclusively on humans in which (2) either PA was used as an intervention or the test participants or athletes were involved in PA and (3) S100B was measured as a dependent variable.

DATA EXTRACTION

We identified 24 articles. Study variations included the mode of PA used as an intervention, sample types, sample-processing procedures, and analytic techniques.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Given the nonuniformity of the analytical methods used and the data samples collected, as well as differences in the types of PA investigated, we were not able to determine a single consistent reference value of S100B in the context of PA. Thus, a clear distinction between a concussed athlete and a healthy athlete based solely on the existing S100B cutoff value of 0.1 μg/L remains unclear. However, because of its high sensitivity and excellent negative predictive value, S100B measurement seems to have the potential to be a diagnostic adjunct for concussion in sports settings. We recommend that the interpretation of S100B values be based on congruent study designs to ensure measurement reliability and validity.

Assessment of the effect of prolonged forced swimming on CD-1 mice sperm morphology with and without antioxidant supplementation

As physical exercise has been shown to negatively affect sperm morphology, this study was undertaken to assess the effect of a 3-min forced swimming protocol during 50 days, with and without administration of antioxidants [N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and trans-resveratrol], on sperm morphology in CD-1 mice. Forty-four 13-week-old CD-1 mice were randomly allocated to four different groups: mice not submitted to exercise, control group (CG), mice submitted to swimming without administration of antioxidants (EX), mice submitted to swimming that received trans-resveratrol supplementation [exercise group (EX)+Resv] and mice submitted to swimming exercise that received NAC supplementation (EX+NAC). The EX showed 30.5% of spermatozoa with normal morphology, showing significant differences with regard to the CG, which showed 58.5%. The groups receiving antioxidant supplements showed significantly higher percentages of spermatozoa with normal morphology in comparison with the EX group (EX+Resv: 64.1%, EX+NAC: 48.2%). The imposed model of forced swimming caused alterations in sperm morphology. The antioxidants employed seem to be suitable antioxidants for avoiding exercise-associated sperm morphology anomalies in prolonged forced swimming exercise. Trans-resveratrol has proven to be more efficient for this purpose.

The impact of match-play tennis in a hot environment on indirect markers of oxidative stress and antioxidant status

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of changes in oxidative stress and antioxidant status in response to playing tennis in HOT (∼36°C and 35% relative humidity (RH)) and COOL (∼22°C and 70% RH) conditions.

Methods

10 male tennis players undertook two matches for an effective playing time (ie, ball in play) of 20 min, corresponding to ∼122 and ∼107 min of total play in HOT and COOL conditions, respectively. Core body temperature, body mass and indirect markers of oxidative stress (diacrons reactive oxygen metabolic test) and antioxidant status (biological antioxidant potential test) were assessed immediately prematch, midmatch and postmatch, and 24 and 48 h into recovery.

Results

Regardless of the condition, oxidative stress remained similar throughout play and into recovery. Likewise, match-play tennis in the COOL had no impact on antioxidant status. However, antioxidants status increased significantly in the HOT compared with COOL environment (p<0.05). Body mass losses (∼0.5 kg) were similar between conditions. Rectal temperature increased during both matches (p<0.05), but with a greater magnitude in the HOT (39.3±0.5°C) versus COOL (38.7±0.2°C) environment (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Match-play tennis in the heat does not exacerbate the development of oxidative stress, but significantly increases antioxidant status. These data suggest that the heat stress observed in the HOT environment may provide a necessary signal for the upregulation of antioxidant defence, dampening cellular damage.