Cell adhesion molecules and exercise

The effect of eight weeks combined training with omega-3 supplementation on the levels of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 in older women

BACKGROUND

Elevated levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 are significant risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Conversely, the regulatory roles of physical activity and omega-3 supplementation in these factors have been reported. The primary aim of the present research was to investigate the impact of an eight-week combined (resistance-endurance) accompanied by omega-3 supplementation on ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels in elderly women.

METHODS

Forty elderly women, averaging 66.7 ± 4.13 years, were randomly assigned to four groups: placebo, omega-3 supplement, training, and training + omega-3. The combined exercise training program was implemented for eight weeks, three sessions per week. Aerobic training included 20 min of running at 60-70% of the reserve heart rate, while resistance training involved exercises at 70% of 1RM with 10 repetitions per exercise for two sets. The omega-3 and training + omega-3 groups consumed 2000 mg of omega-3 daily. Blood samples were collected 48 h after the last combined exercise training or omega-3 consumption, and the measured variables were analyzed using analysis of covariance test and SPSS-24 software.

RESULTS

ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels significantly decreased in the training and training + omega-3 groups (p < 0.001). The decrease in ICAM-1 within the training + omega-3 group was also significant compared to the training group (p = 0.024). Additionally, a significant reduction in insulin resistance and body fat percentage was observed in both the training and training + omega-3 groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The present study's results indicate that omega-3 supplementation can enhance the effectiveness of combined training in regulating cardiovascular risk factors.

The effect of exercise on blood concentrations of angiogenesis markers in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Impaired angiogenesis is associated with cognitive decline in older adults. While exercise has been broadly associated with increased angiogenesis, the relevant mechanisms in older adults are not clear. Here, we present a systematic review and meta-analysis on the relationship between exercise and specific blood angiogenesis markers in older adults to better understand the relevant mechanisms. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched for original reports of angiogenesis markers' concentrations in blood before and after exercise in older adults (≥50 years). Heterogeneity was investigated using sub-group analyses and meta-regressions. Of the 44 articles included in the review, 38 were included in the meta-analyses for five markers: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), e-selectin (CD62E), endostatin, fibroblast growth factor 2, and matrix metallopeptidase-9. VEGF levels were higher (SMD[95%CI]= 0.18[0.03, 0.34], and CD62E levels were lower (SMD[95%CI]= -0.72[-1.42, -0.03], p = 0.04) after exercise. No other markers were altered. Although more studies are needed, changes in angiogenesis markers may help explain the beneficial effects of exercise on angiogenesis in older adults.

Association of physical activity with endothelial dysfunction among adults with and without chronic kidney disease: The Maastricht Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Physical activity (PA) constitutes an established protective factor while sedentary behavior (SB) an emerging independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. This study evaluated the association of PA and SB with endothelial dysfunction (ED) depending on kidney function status.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data from the prospective, population-based Maastricht Study were used. PA and SB were measured using the ActivPAL3 accelerometer 24h/day for eight consecutive days. ED was evaluated by plasma levels of soluble vascular cell adhesion protein-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, E-selectin and von Willebrand factor, which were combined into an ED score with higher values depicting higher ED.

RESULTS

Overall, 2,668 participants, 323 with chronic kidney disease, were included. In normal kidney function individuals, the ED score presented a significant negative association with total, lower-intensity and moderate-to-vigorous PA duration and a positive association with total sedentary time, sedentary breaks and sedentary bout duration. In participants with chronic kidney disease, a significant negative association of ED score with total [β: -4.42, 95% confidence intervals (95% CI): -7.98; -0.87] and lower-intensity (β: -7.08, 95% CI: -13.41; -0.74) PA duration, as well as a positive association of ED score with sedentary bout duration (β: 43.72, 95% CI: 9.85; 77.59) were noted. The strength of associations did not significantly differ across kidney function subgroups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis showed that PA duration is inversely associated with ED both among patients with normal kidney function and chronic kidney disease. In chronic kidney disease, longer sedentary bouts were associated with greater endothelial dysfunction.

Effectiveness of Regular Aerobic Exercise in Improving Vascular Stiffness in Elderly Korean Women

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of aerobic exercise on carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV), cell adhesion molecules (intracellular adhesion molecules (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecules (VCAM-1), endothelial selectin (E-selectin), and oxidized LDL in elderly women aged 70-85 years, and to identify the effect of and correlation with vascular stiffness. Forty participants were recruited and divided into three groups; vascular stiffness (VSG, n = 14), obesity (OG, n = 14), and normal (NG, n = 12). All groups were given a 16-week intervention of aerobic exercise, and the data collected before and after exercise were analyzed using SPSS Ver. 23.0. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to evaluate between-group and time-dependent interaction effects. One-way ANOVA was used to evaluate between-group variations. In addition, the significance was tested using a post hoc test (Scheffe). The within-group variations by time before and after exercise were examined using a paired t-test, and correlation analysis was performed using Pearson correlation coefficients. Simple regression analysis was performed for variables showing significant differences. The results indicate interaction effects for cf-PWV (p < 0.001), VCAM-1 (p < 0.01), E-selectin (p < 0.05), and oxidized LDL (p < 0.001). The rate of change of cf-PWV was positively correlated with that of VCAM-1 (r = 0.352, p < 0.05) and that of oxidized LDL (r = 0.325, p < 0.05) with statistical significance. To determine the effect of the rate of change of cf-PWV on the rate of change of VCAM-1, the variables were tested, and the coefficient of determination in the regression analysis was 0.124, indicating that 12.4% of the tested variables fit the standard regression line. The variables for the effect of the rate of change of cf-PWV on the rate of change of oxidized LDL were also tested, and the coefficient of determination in the regression analysis was 0.106, indicating that 10.6% of the tested variables fit the standard regression line. Thus, the 16-week regular and consistent aerobic exercise program had significant effects on the cf-PWV, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin, and oxidized LDL in elderly Korean women with vascular stiffness, suggesting improvements in vascular stiffness, based on which the intervention is predicted to contribute to the prevention of vascular dysfunction by lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease due to atherosclerosis, as well as having a positive effect in the prevention of impairment of vascular endothelial cells.

The use of cellulose, chitosan and hyaluronic acid in transdermal therapeutic management of obesity: A review

Obesity is a clinical condition with rising popularity and detrimental impacts on human health. According to the World Health Organization, obesity is the sixth most common cause of death worldwide. It is challenging to combat obesity because medications that are successful in the clinical investigation have harmful side effects when administered orally. The conventional approaches for treating obesity primarily entail synthetic compounds and surgical techniques but possess severe adverse effects and recurrences. As a result, a safe and effective strategy to combat obesity must be initiated. Recent studies have shown that biological macromolecules of the carbohydrate class, such as cellulose, hyaluronic acid, and chitosan, can enhance the release and efficacy of medications for obesity but due to their short biological half-lives and poor oral bioavailability, their distribution rate is affected. This helps to comprehend the need for an effective therapeutic approach via a transdermal drug delivery system. This review focuses on the transdermal administration, utilizing cellulose, chitosan, and hyaluronic acid via microneedles, as it offers a promising solution to overcome existing therapy limitations in managing obesity and it also highlights how microneedles can effectively deliver therapeutic substances through the skin's outer layer, bypassing pain receptors and specifically targeting adipose tissue.

The effects of a 20-week exercise program on blood-circulating biomarkers related to brain health in overweight or obese children: The ActiveBrains project

BACKGROUND

Emerging research supports the idea that exercise positively affects neurodevelopment. However, the mechanisms linking exercise with brain health are largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the effect of exercise on (a) blood biomarkers selected based on previous evidence (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), cathepsin B (CTSB), kynurenine, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1)); and (b) a panel of 92 neurology-related proteins (discovery analysis). We also investigated whether changes in these biomarkers mediate the effects of exercise on brain health (hippocampal structure and function, cognitive performance, and mental health).

METHODS

We randomized 81 overweight/obese children (10.1 ± 1.1 years, 41% girls) into 2 groups: either 20 weeks of aerobic plus resistance exercise or control. Candidate biomarkers were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for kynurenine, FGF21, and CTSB; colorimetry for β-hydroxybutyrate; and XMap for brain-derived neurotrophic factor and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. The 92 neurology-related proteins were analyzed by an antibody-based proteomic analysis.

RESULTS

Our intervention had no significant effect on candidate biomarkers (all p > 0.05). In the discovery analysis, a reduction in circulating macrophage scavenger receptor type-I was observed (standardized differences between groups = -0.3, p = 0.001). This effect was validated using ELISA methods (standardized difference = -0.3, p = 0.01). None of the biomarkers mediated the effects of exercise on brain health.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study does not support a chronic effect of exercise on candidate biomarkers. We observed that while chronic exercise reduced the levels of macrophage scavenger receptor type-I, it did not mediate the effects of exercise on brain health. Future studies should explore the implications of this novel biomarker for overall health.

The effect of exercise on blood concentrations of angiogenesis markers in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Physical exercise has positive impacts on health and can improve angiogenesis, which is impaired during aging, but the underlying mechanisms of benefit are unclear. This meta-analysis and systematic review investigated the effects of exercise on several peripheral angiogenesis markers in older adults to better understand the relationship between exercise and angiogenesis.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched for original, peer-reviewed reports of peripheral concentrations of angiogenesis markers before and after exercise interventions in older adults (> 50 years). The risk of bias was assessed with standardized criteria. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated from random-effects models. Publication bias was assessed with Egger's test, funnel plots, and trim-and-fill. A priori subgroup analyses and meta-regressions were performed to investigate heterogeneity where possible.

Results

Of the 44 articles included in the review, 38 were included in meta-analyses for five proteins. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was found to be higher after exercise (SMD[95%CI] = 0.18[0.03, 0.34], p = 0.02), and e-selectin (CD62E) was found to be lower after exercise (SMD[95%CI]= -0.72[-1.42, -0.03], p = 0.04). Endostatin (SMD[95%CI] = 0.28[-0.56, 1.11], p = 0.5), fibroblast growth factor 2 (SMD[95%CI] = 0.03[-0.18, 0.23], p = 0.8), and matrix metallopeptidase-9 (SMD[95%CI] = -0.26[-0.97, 0.45], p = 0.5) levels did not change after exercise.

Conclusions

Of the five angiogenesis blood markers evaluated in this meta-analysis, only VEGF and CD62E changed with exercise. Although more studies are needed, changes in angiogenesis markers may explain the beneficial effects of exercise on angiogenesis and health in older adults.

Association between circulating oxidized OxLDL/LDL-C ratio and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis, along with other emerging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between circulating oxLDL/LDL-C ratio and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis, along with other emerging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We recruited 152 patients with type 2 diabetes for our study. ELISA measured the plasma levels of oxLDL and other biomarkers. The severity of coronary lesions was evaluated using Gensini scores, which were calculated based on results of coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA). All patients were allocated into four groups according to CCTA findings and Gensini score: normal group (score = 0), mild coronary atherosclerosis group (0 < scores ≤ 3), moderate coronary atherosclerosis group (3.01 ≤ scores ≤ 32.67) and severe coronary atherosclerosis group (32.68 ≤ scores ≤ 180). Association between the oxLDL/LDL-C ratio and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis were evaluated using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the oxLDL/LDL-C ratio was positively associated with severity of coronary atherosclerosis (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.31-3.14, p < 0.01). Interleukin 33 (IL33) correlated positively with oxLDL/LDL-C ratio (r = 0.274, p < 0.01). However, vascular cell adhesion molecular-1 (VCAM-1) had similar trends with oxLDL/LDL-C ratio in these 4 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

OxLDL/LDL-C ratio is considered as a potential biomarker in patients with diabetes for early recognition and intervention of severe coronary atherosclerosis, and will be more effective if tested IL33 and VCAM-1 at the same time.

microRNA-126 inhibits vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and interleukin-1beta in human dental pulp cells

BACKGROUND

Vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) mediates pulpitis via regulating interleukin (IL)-1β. microRNA (miR)-126 was reported to regulate the VCAM-1 under many different pathophysiological circumstances. We investigated variations of miR-126 and VCAM-1 in inflamed patient pulp tissues and determined potential roles of miR-126 in pulpitis using human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) in vitro.

METHODS

We quantitatively measured the transcripts of miR-126 and VCAM-1 in inflamed human pulp tissues using qRT-PCR and compared with those from healthy human pulp tissues. In addition, we transfected miR-126 in hDPCs using plasmid DNA (pDNA)-encoding miR-126 delivered by polyethylenimine (PEI) nanoparticles.

RESULTS

The irreversible pulpitis significantly reduced miR-126 and increased the transcript of VCAM-1 in pulp tissues (p < 0.05). pDNA-encoding miR-126 delivered PEI nanoparticles and effectively upregulated the expression of miR-126 in hDPCs (p < 0.05). The overexpression of miR-126 could effectively suppress the transcripts and protein levels of VCAM-1 and IL-1β induced by Pg-LPS at 100ng/mL in DPCs (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

miR-126 is involved in pulpitis and downregulated the VCAM-1 and IL-1β in DPCs. miR-126 may be a potential target to attenuate the inflammation of pulpitis.

Does group-based high-intensity aerobic interval training improve the inflammatory status in patients with chronic heart failure?

BACKGROUND

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a multifaceted syndrome associated with endothelial dysfunction and increased inflammation. Despite the existing controversies regarding the appropriate training modality, it is widely accepted that supervised cardiac rehabilitation (CR) interventions lead to proinflammatory biomarkers reduction and cellular adhesion molecules in patients with CHF.

AIM

The aim of the study was to quantify the effects of 12-week group-based high-intensity aerobic interval training (HIAIT)/modified group-based HIAIT intervention (m-Ullevaal) vs. moderate continuous training (MICT) on serum levels of proinflammatory biomarkers.

DESIGN

Single-blind, two-arm, prospective randomized controlled trial conducted on CHF outpatients performing group-based CR interventions throughout a 12-week period.

SETTING

The setting of the study was the Medical Center of Outpatient Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

POPULATION

The population included a total of 120 outpatients of both genders, mean age of 63.73±6.68 years, with stable CHF (NYHA classes II to IIIB, were randomly assigned to HIAIT/ m-Ullevaal (N.=60) or to MICT (N.=60) group.

METHODS

Functional exercise capacity (FEC) of the eligible subjects was evaluated through 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and peak oxygen uptake. Blood samples were drawn at baseline, after 12 weeks follow-up for analyses of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) and cellular adhesion molecules (CAM).

RESULTS

Significant decreases in the serum levels of CRP (P=0.029), TNF-α (P=0.036), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) (P=0.040), were observed after 48 training sessions in the group-based HIAIT/m-Ullevaal intervention, except for intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), which was higher in the MICT (P=0.034). FEC was significantly inversely related to CRP (r=-0.72, P<0.05), and the levels of VCAM-1 (r=-0.68, P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Both group-based CR interventions (HIAIT/m-Ullevaal and MICT) significantly reduced the serum levels of CRP, TNF- α, ICAM-1 and VCAM in patients with CHF. However, selected proinflammatory biomarkers changes and CAMs favorably decreased in the group-based HIAIT/m-Ullevaal intervention. The responses on serum levels of proinflammatory biomarkers and CAMs are dependent upon the type, intensity, and CR intervention duration.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

The group-based high-intensity aerobic interval training reduces significantly the proinflammatory biomarkers and cellular adhesion molecules in patients with chronic heart failure.

Physical exercise is associated with a reduction in plasma levels of fractalkine, TGF-β1, eotaxin-1 and IL-6 in younger adults with mobility disability

Mobility disability (MD) refers to substantial limitations in life activities that arise because of movement impairments. Although MD is most prevalent in older individuals, it can also affect younger adults. Increasing evidence suggests that inflammation can drive the development of MD and may need to be targeted for MD prevention. Physical exercise has anti-inflammatory properties and has been associated with MD prevention. However, no studies to date have examined whether exercise interventions affect the peripheral inflammatory status in younger adults with MD. To this end, we used blood samples from young and middle-aged adults with MD (N = 38; median age = 34 years) who participated in a 12-week intervention that included aerobic and resistance exercise training. A pre-post assessment of inflammatory biomarkers was conducted in plasma from two timepoints, i.e., before the exercise trial and at follow-up (3–7 days after the last exercise session). We successfully measured 15 inflammatory biomarkers and found that exercise was associated with a significant reduction in levels of soluble fractalkine, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), eotaxin-1 and interleukin (IL) 6 (corrected α = 0.004). We also found significant male-specific effects of exercise on (i) increasing IL-16 and (ii) decreasing vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). In line with our results, previous studies have also found that exercise can reduce levels of TGF-β1, eotaxin-1 and IL-6. However, our finding that exercise reduces plasma levels of fractalkine in younger adults with MD, as well as the sex-dependent findings, have not been previously reported and warrant replication in larger cohorts. Given the suggested role of inflammation in promoting MD development, our study provides additional support for the use of physical exercise as a treatment modality for MD.

Treadmill Exercise Ameliorates Short-term Memory Impairment by Suppressing Hippocampal Neuroinflammation in Poloxamer-407-Induced Hyperlipidemia Rats

PURPOSE

Poloxamer-407 (P-407) is used to induce hyperlipidemia. Exercise is effective in improving arteriosclerosis and cognitive impairment. In this research, the effect of treadmill running on short-term memory in the P-407-treated hyperlipidemia rats was studied focusing on neuroinflammation.

METHODS

Rats were classified in normal group, normal and treadmill exercise group, P-407-treated group, and P-407-treated and treadmill exercise group. Hyperlipidemia rats were made by single intraperitoneal injection with P-407 (500 mg/kg). Treadmill exercise was conducted for 30 minutes once a day, 5 days per week during 28 days. Step-down avoidance task was done to measure short-term memory. Glial fibrillary acidic protein and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Expression of adhesion molecules and proinflammatory cytokines was determined by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Treadmill exercise alleviated lipid profiles in the P-407-induced hyperlipidemia rats. Treadmill exercise improved short-term memory, inhibited reactive astrogliosis and microglia activation, and suppressed expression of adhesion molecules and proinflammatory cytokines in the hyperlipidemic rats.

CONCLUSION

Treadmill exercise exerts alleviating effect on memory deficits by inhibiting hippocampal neuroinflammation in the hyperlipidemia. The current results suggest that treadmill running serves as the treatment strategy for the cognitive dysfunction caused by hyperlipidemia.

Circulating Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) Is Associated With Left Atrial Remodeling in Long-Distance Runners

Introduction: An increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) has been demonstrated in high-performance athletes. Soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), a biomarker involved in inflammation and cardiac remodeling, is associated with the development of AF in the general population. However, the relationship between sVCAM-1 and left atrial (LA) remodeling has been poorly investigated in long-distance runners (LDR).

Aim: To determine the association between LA remodeling and sVCAM-1 levels in LDR during the training period before a marathon race.

Methods: Thirty-six healthy male LDR (37.0 ± 5.3 years; 174.0 ± 7.0 height; BMI: 23.8 ± 2.8; V°O₂-peak: 56.5 ± 7.3 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹) were evaluated in this single-blind and cross-sectional study. The LDR were separated into two groups according to previous training levels: high-training (HT) (n = 18) ≥100 km·week⁻¹ and low-training (LT) (n = 18) ≥70 and <100 km·week⁻¹. Also, 18 healthy non-active subjects were included as a control group (CTR). In all participants, transthoracic echocardiography was performed. sVCAM-1 blood levels were measured baseline and immediately finished the marathon race in LDR.

Results: HT showed increased basal levels of sVCAM-1 (651 ± 350 vs. 440 ± 98 ng·mL⁻¹ CTR, p = 0.002; and vs. 533 ± 133 ng·mL⁻¹ LT; p = 0.003) and a post-marathon increase (ΔsVCAM-1) (651 ± 350 to 905 ± 373 ng·mL⁻¹; p = 0.002), that did not occur in LT (533 ± 133 to 651 ± 138 ng·mL⁻¹; p = 0.117). In LDR was a moderate correlation between LA volume and sVCAM-1 level (rho = 0.510; p = 0.001).

Conclusions: In male long-distance runners, sVCAM-1 levels are directly associated with LA remodeling. Also, the training level is associated with basal sVCAM-1 levels and changes after an intense and prolonged exercise (42.2 km). Whether sVCAM-1 levels predict the risk of AF in runners remains to be established.

L-Threoascorbic acid treatment promotes S. aureus-infected primary human endothelial cells survival and function, as well as intracellular bacterial killing, and immunomodulates the release of IL-1β and soluble ICAM-1

BACKGROUND

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid, AscH2) has been shown to enhance immunity. Here, we studied its immunomodulatory effect on human endothelial cells (ECs) during S. aureus infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ex vivo effects of AscH2 were performed on primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) infected or not with S. aureus.

RESULTS

AscH2 treatment induced a marked downregulation of nitric oxide (NO) production and a moderate upregulation of arginase activity in S. aureus-infected HUVECs (respectively, p < 0.05 and p > 0.05). Although the upregulated release levels of soluble intercellular adhesion molecular 1 (sICAM-1/sCD54) and sE-selectin (sCD62E) molecules were not significantly different between treated and untreated S. aureus-infected HUVECs, AscH2 treatment induced reversing effect on sICAM-1 release when comparing to uninfected control HUVECs. Moreover, AscH2 treatment appears to have a significant effect on preventing HUVEC necrosis induced by S. aureus infection (p < 0.05). Furthermore, AscH2 treatment induced a significant upregulation of cell protective redox biomarker in S. aureus-infected, as shown by superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (p < 0.05), but not by catalase activity (p > 0.05). Additionally, S. aureus infection markedly downregulated total bound calcium ions (_bCa²⁺) levels as compared to control HUVECs, whereas, AscH2 treatment induced a slight upregulation of _bCa²⁺ levels in infected HUVECs as compared to infected and untreated HUVECs (p > 0.05). On the other hand, AscH2 treatment downregulated increased total cellular cholesterol content (_tccCHOL) levels in HUVECs induced by S. aureus infection (p < 0.05). In addition, AscH2 treatment markedly reversed S. aureus effect on upregulation of intracellular glucose (_iGLU) levels within infected HUVECs (p < 0.05). Moreover, AscH2 treatment significantly downregulated S. aureus growth (p < 0.05), and significantly upregulated bacterial internalization and intracellular killing by HUVECs (p < 0.05), as well as their cell cycle activation (p < 0.01). Finally, AscH2 treatment has a slight effect on the production of interleukin 6 (IL-6), but induced a marked downregulation of that of IL-1β in S. aureus-infected HUVECs (respectively, p > 0.05, and p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our outcomes demonstrated that, during S. aureus infection, AscH2 treatment promotes human ECs survival and function, as well as prevents inflammatory response exacerbation, while inducing bactericidal activity.

Baseline and overtime variations of soluble adhesion molecule plasma concentrations are associated with mobility recovery after rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis patients

Rehabilitative exercise outcomes and plasma concentrations of soluble adhesion molecules (sEndoglin, sE-Selectin, sL-Selectin, sICAM-1, sNCAM, sNCAM-1, sVCAM-1, sPECAM-1, sVAP-1) were evaluated in 60 severely disabled progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients at 4-time points. Changes of sE-Selectin, sL-Selectin, and sPECAM-1 concentrations were observed over time, and their variations were significantly correlated with rehabilitative outcome variations. Baseline sVAP-1 concentrations were able to predict functional mobility recovery. Our data suggest that the evaluation of adhesion molecules in plasma provides useful information to interpret rehabilitative exercise processes and to identify potential predictors of the rehabilitation-induced changes in mobility outcomes in MS patients.

Preclinical techniques to investigate exercise training in vascular pathophysiology

Atherosclerosis is a dynamic process starting with endothelial dysfunction and inflammation and eventually leading to life-threatening arterial plaques. Exercise generally improves endothelial function in a dose-dependent manner by altering hemodynamics, specifically by increased arterial pressure, pulsatility, and shear stress. However, athletes who regularly participate in high-intensity training can develop arterial plaques, suggesting alternative mechanisms through which excessive exercise promotes vascular disease. Understanding the mechanisms that drive atherosclerosis in sedentary versus exercise states may lead to novel rehabilitative methods aimed at improving exercise compliance and physical activity. Preclinical tools, including in vitro cell assays, in vivo animal models, and in silico computational methods, broaden our capabilities to study the mechanisms through which exercise impacts atherogenesis, from molecular maladaptation to vascular remodeling. Here, we describe how preclinical research tools have and can be used to study exercise effects on atherosclerosis. We then propose how advanced bioengineering techniques can be used to address gaps in our current understanding of vascular pathophysiology, including integrating in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies across multiple tissue systems and size scales. Improving our understanding of the antiatherogenic exercise effects will enable engaging, targeted, and individualized exercise recommendations to promote cardiovascular health rather than treating cardiovascular disease that results from a sedentary lifestyle.

Role of Regular Physical Activity in Neuroprotection against Acute Ischemia

One of the major obstacles that prevents an effective therapeutic intervention against ischemic stroke is the lack of neuroprotective agents able to reduce neuronal damage; this results in frequent evolution towards a long-term disability with limited alternatives available to aid in recovery. Nevertheless, various treatment options have shown clinical efficacy. Neurotrophins such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), widely produced throughout the brain, but also in distant tissues such as the muscle, have demonstrated regenerative properties with the potential to restore damaged neural tissue. Neurotrophins play a significant role in both protection and recovery of function following neurological diseases such as ischemic stroke or traumatic brain injury. Unfortunately, the efficacy of exogenous administration of these neurotrophins is limited by rapid degradation with subsequent poor half-life and a lack of blood-brain-barrier permeability. Regular exercise seems to be a therapeutic approach able to induce the activation of several pathways related to the neurotrophins release. Exercise, furthermore, reduces the infarct volume in the ischemic brain and ameliorates motor function in animal models increasing astrocyte proliferation, inducing angiogenesis and reducing neuronal apoptosis and oxidative stress. One of the most critical issues is to identify the relationship between neurotrophins and myokines, newly discovered skeletal muscle-derived factors released during and after exercise able to exert several biological functions. Various myokines (e.g., Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1, Irisin) have recently shown their ability to protects against neuronal injury in cerebral ischemia models, suggesting that these substances may influence the degree of neuronal damage in part via inhibiting inflammatory signaling pathways. The aim of this narrative review is to examine the main experimental data available to date on the neuroprotective and anti-ischemic role of regular exercise, analyzing also the possible role played by neurotrophins and myokines.

Firefighting Induces Acute Inflammatory Responses that are not Relieved by Aspirin in Older Firefighters

OBJECTIVE

Sudden cardiac events account for 40% to 50% of firefighter line-of-duty deaths. Inflammatory proteins are strong biomarkers of cardiovascular inflammation. The present study investigated the effects of aspirin supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers following firefighting.

METHODS

Using a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover design, 24 male firefighters (48.2 ± 5.9 years) were allocated into four conditions: acute (81 mg; single-dose) aspirin and placebo supplementation, and chronic (81 mg; 14 days) aspirin and placebo supplementation. Inflammatory proteins [interleukin (IL)-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, P-selectin, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)] and antioxidant potential [total antioxidant capacity (TAC)] were measured pre- and post-structural firefighting drills.

RESULTS

Firefighting activities significantly increased IL-6, MMP-9, and P-Selectin; however, no changes in TAC and ICAM-1 were detected. Neither acute nor chronic aspirin supplementation attenuated this inflammatory response.

CONCLUSION

Firefighting significantly increases inflammatory biomarkers and neither acute nor chronic low-dose aspirin mitigates this response.

Oral Administration of Sodium Nitrate to Metabolic Syndrome Patients Attenuates Mild Inflammatory and Oxidative Responses to Acute Exercise

The beneficial effects of exercise for the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome pathologies have been related to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Dietary nitrate supplementation is an emerging treatment strategy to alleviate the symptoms of metabolic syndrome affections and to improve vascular function. In this double-blind crossover trial, metabolic syndrome patients performed two exercise tests for 30 min at 60–70% maximal heart rate after the intake of a placebo or a nitrate-enriched beverage. Acute exercise increased the plasma concentration of TNFα, intercellular adhesion molecule ICAM1, PGE1, PGE2 and the newly detected 16-hydroxypalmitic acid (16-HPAL) in metabolic syndrome patients. The cytokine and oxylipin production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and neutrophils could be responsible for the plasma concentrations of TNFα and IL6, but not for the plasma concentration of oxylipins nor its post-exercise increase. The intake of sodium nitrate 30 min before exercise increased the concentration of nitrate and nitrite in the oral cavity and plasma and reduced the oxygen cost of exercise. Additionally, nitrate intake prevented the enhancing effects of acute exercise on the plasma concentration of TNFα, ICAM1, PGE1, PGE2 and 16-HPAL, while reducing the capabilities of PBMCs and neutrophils to produce oxylipins.

Effect of Acute and Chronic Aerobic Exercise on Immunological Markers: A Systematic Review

Introduction: The effects of aerobic exercise on the immune system are not yet fully defined in the scientific literature. This fact demonstrates the need to investigate its influence on existing immunological markers by classifying and quantifying their acute and chronic effects. Objective: To investigate the effects of acute and chronic aerobic exercise on inflammatory markers of healthy adults. Methods: This study is a systematic review according to PRISMA recommendations. The following databases were searched: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, Bireme and Cochrane Library, and article references. The last search was performed in March 2019. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled trials (NRCTs) investigating the acute and chronic effects of aerobic exercise on immune markers in healthy male and female adults aged 20 to 45 years, without restrictions in language or year of publication. Two authors independently analyzed the studies by reading the titles, abstracts, and full texts. Risk of Study bias was analyzed using Cochrane's Risk of Bias Tool. Outcomes: We included 15 studies in this systematic review, 13 of which were acute intervention and 2 were chronic, with 296 participants, 196 men and 100 women all being healthy individuals. It was observed that the acute intervention promotes changes in most immunological markers, while the chronic intervention interferes with a smaller proportion, this being in lymphocyte subpopulations. In the evaluation of quality, it was found that most studies did not present a high risk of bias in the evaluated aspects, but an unclear related risk of bias was observed, requiring a more careful analysis. Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that the evidence indicates that acute and chronic interventions may modify most immune markers, but aspects such as gender, contraceptive pill use in women, physical capacity of the investigated individuals, environment, and type and intensity of the exercises may interfere with these markers as well as the data analysis. Therefore, this review suggests that further research is needed to contribute to the confirmation and estimation of results.

The Regulation of the Metastatic Cascade by Physical Activity: A Narrative Review

The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the currently available knowledge about the mechanisms by which physical activity may affect metastatic development. The search terms exercise [Title/Abstract] AND metastasis [Title/Abstract] returned 222 articles on PUBMED on the 10 February 2019. After careful analysis of the abstracts, a final selection of 24 articles was made. Physical activity regulates the levels of metastatic factors in each of the five steps of the process. Moderate intensity exercise appears to prevent tumor spread around the body, among others, by normalizing angiogenesis, destroying circulating tumor cells, and decreasing endothelial cells permeability. Contrarily, high-intensity exercise seems to favor cancer dissemination, likely through excessive stress, which can be somewhat counteracted by an appropriate warm-up. In conclusion, chronic adaptations to moderate-intensity endurance exercise seem the most effective way to achieve a preventive effect of exercise on metastases. Altogether, the data gathered here reinforce the importance of encouraging cancer patients to perform moderate physical activity several times a week. To limit the undesired events thereof, a good knowledge of the patient's training level is important to establish an adapted exercise training program.

The role of OX40L and ICAM-1 in the stability of coronary atherosclerotic plaques and their relationship with sudden coronary death

Background

Coronary heart disease is related to sudden death caused by multi-factors and a major threat to human health.This study explores the role of OX40L and ICAM-1 in the stability of coronary plaques and their relationship with sudden coronary death.

Methods

A total of 118 human coronary arteries with different degrees of atherosclerosis and/or sudden coronary death comprised the experimental group and 28 healthy subjects constituted the control group were isolated from patients. The experimental group was subdivided based on whether the cause of death was sudden coronary death and whether it was accompanied by thrombosis, plaque rupture, plaque outflow and other secondary changes: group I: patients with coronary atherosclerosis but not sudden coronary death, group II: sudden coronary death without any of the secondary changes mentioned above, group III: sudden coronary death with coronary artery atherosclerotic lesions accompanied by either of the above secondary changes. The histological structure of the coronary artery was observed under a light microscope after routine HE staining, and the related indexes of atherosclerotic plaque lesions were assessed by image analysis software. The expressions of OX40L and ICAM-1 were detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blotting, and the correlations between the expressions and the stability of coronary atherosclerotic plaque and sudden coronary death were analyzed.

Results

(1) The expression of OX40L protein in the control group and the three experimental groups showed an increasing trend, and the difference between groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). (2) The expression of the ICAM-1 protein in the control group and the three experimental groups showed a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increasing trend. (3) The expression of OX40L and ICAM-1 mRNAs increased in the control and the three experimental groups and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The expression of OX40L and ICAM-1 proteins and mRNAs is positively correlated with the stability of coronary atherosclerotic plaque and sudden coronary death.

Effects of low-intensity and high-intensity cycling with diesel exhaust exposure on soluble P-selectin, E-selectin, I-CAM-1, VCAM-1 and complete blood count

BACKGROUND

Exposure to particulate matter 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) that contains transition metals may play a role in systemic oxidative stress and inflammation. Exposure to diesel exhaust (DE) can increase adhesion molecules, which are important in the inflammatory response; however, it is unclear how exercising in DE affects adhesion molecules and how exercise intensity modulates this response.

AIM

To determine how DE exposure during exercise of varying intensities affects adhesion molecules and markers of systemic inflammation.

METHODS

Eighteen males performed 30 min cycling bouts at low intensity and high intensity (30% and 60% of power at VO2peak (peak oxygen consumption) and a control condition (rest)). Each trial was performed once breathing filtered air (FA) and once breathing DE (300 μg/m3 of PM2.5, six trials in total). Prior to, immediately post, 1 and 2 hours post exposure, blood was drawn to measure parameters of a complete blood count and soluble (s) platelet-Selectin, endothelin-Selectin, intracellular cell adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM)-1. Data were analysed using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Two hours following high-intensity exercise, sICAM-1 was significantly less in DE compared with FA (p=0.008). Immediately following rest (p=0.013) and high-intensity exercise (p=0.042) in DE, sICAM-1 was significantly greater than immediately following low-intensity exercise in DE. There were no significant differences in other markers between DE and FA.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this study, healthy individuals may not experience an acute increase in adhesion molecules and systemic inflammatory markers from exercising in DE compared with FA, and higher exercise intensities do not appear to increase the likelihood that DE will affect adhesion molecules and systemic inflammatory markers.

The Presence of a High Peak Feature Within Low-Average Shear Stimuli Induces Quiescence in Venous Endothelial Cells

Wall shear stress (WSS) is an important stimulus in vascular remodelling and vascular lesion development. The current methods to assess and predict the risk associated with specific unsteady WSS consider the WSS mean values or the presence of reverse phases described by the oscillatory shear index. Recent evidence has shown that the accuracy of these methods is limited, especially with respect to the venous environment. Unsteady WSS are characterised by several features that may individually affect endothelial cells. Consequently, we assessed the effects of averaged WSS (TAWSS), temporal WSS gradient (TWSSG), maximum WSS (WSS peak) and reverse phase (OSI) by applying different WSS profiles to venous EC in-vitro, using a real-time controlled cone-and-plate cell-shearing device for 24 h. We found that TWSSG and WSS peak affect cell elongation and alignment respectively. We also found that the WSS waveforms with a peak of 1.5 Pa or higher significantly correlate with the induction of a protective phenotype. Cell phenotype induced by these high peak waveforms does not correlate to what is predicted by the hemodynamic indices currently used. The definition of reliable hemodynamic indices can be used to inform the computational models aimed at estimating the hemodynamic effects on vascular remodelling.

Age-Dependent Impairment in Endothelial Function and Arterial Stiffness in Former High Class Male Athletes Is No Different to That in Men With No History of Physical Training

Background

Physical activity is generally considered to exert positive effects on the cardiovascular system in humans. However, surprisingly little is known about the delayed effect of professional physical training performed at a young age on endothelial function and arterial stiffness in aging athletes. The present study aimed to assess the impact of long‐lasting professional physical training (endurance and sprint) performed at a young age on the endothelial function and arterial stiffness reported in older age in relation to glycocalyx injury, prostacyclin and nitric oxide production, inflammation, basal blood lipid profile, and glucose homeostasis.

Methods and Results

This study involved 94 male subjects with varied training backgrounds, including young athletes (mean age ∼25 years), older former high class athletes (mean age ∼60 years), and aged‐matched untrained control groups. Aging increased arterial stiffness, as reflected by an enhancement in pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, and stiffness index (P<10⁻⁴), as well as decreased endothelial function, as judged by the attenuation of flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD) in the brachial artery (P=0.03). Surprisingly, no effect of the training performed at a young age on endothelial function and arterial stiffness was observed in the former athletes. Moreover, no effect of training performed at a young age (P>0.05) on blood lipid profile, markers of inflammation, and glycocalyx shedding were observed in the former athletes.

Conclusions

Our study clearly shows that aging, but not physical training history, represents the main contributing factor responsible for decline in endothelial function and increase in arterial stiffness in former athletes.

Exercise Attenuates Acute β-Adrenergic Overactivation-Induced Cardiac Fibrosis by Modulating Cytokines

During acute sympathetic stress, the overactivation of β-adrenergic receptors (β-ARs) causes cardiac fibrosis by triggering inflammation and cytokine expression. It is unknown whether exercise training inhibits acute β-AR overactivation-induced cytokine expression and cardiac injury. Here, we report that running exercise inhibited cardiac fibrosis and improved cardiac function in mice treated with isoproterenol (ISO), a β-AR agonist. A cytokine antibody array revealed that running exercise prevented most of the changes in cytokine expression induced by ISO. Specifically, ISO-induced upregulation of 18 cytokines was prevented by running exercise. A Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis of these cytokines revealed that Hedgehog and RAP1 signaling pathways were involved in the regulation of cytokine expression by exercise. The changes in the expression of some cytokines that were prevented by exercise were verified by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and real-time PCR. In conclusion, running exercise prevented the cytokine expression changes after acute β-AR overactivation and therefore attenuated cardiac fibrosis. Acute sympathetic stress is an important risk factor for the patients with cardiovascular diseases, and the present study revealed that exercise training can prevent against the upregulation of cytokines and the subsequent cardiac injury induced by acute sympathetic stress, suggesting that exercise training may be beneficial for cardiovascular patients who are in risk of acute sympathetic stress. This finding provides a theoretical basis for the application of exercise training in patients who may suffer from acute sympathetic stress.

Circulating soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) after exercise-induced muscular damage: Does the use of whole-body cryostimulation influence its concentration in blood?

As soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) was recently hypothesized to be a key player in the mechanisms involved in exercise-induced muscular damage (EIMD), we investigated its circulating concentration changes in athletes before and after EIMD with and without the use of whole-body cryostimulation (WBC; 3 min at -110 °C) at the exercise end and repeated once a day during 4 days. We previously characterized plasma specimens from 11 endurance athletes who performed twice (randomized crossover design) strenuous running leading to EIMD, followed by passive recovery or WBC. Muscle soreness and inflammatory response were observed in both cases but the use of WBC induced a significant reduction in these responses (PlosOne 2011; 6:e22748). We now found that sICAM-1 concentration slightly increased in both circumstances and remained elevated for 24 h (p < 0.01). However, no significant WBC effect was observed concerning sICAM-1 changes indicating that this compound is not a major player both in EIMD and WBC physiological impacts.

Impact of Exercise on Inflammatory Mediators of Metabolic and Vascular Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes

The development of obesity is cornerstone in the etiology of metabolic and vascular insulin resistance and consequently exacerbates glycemic control. Exercise is an efficacious first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes that improves insulin action through, in part, reducing hormone mediated inflammation. Together, improving the coordination of skeletal muscle metabolism with vascular delivery of glucose will be required for optimizing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease treatment.