[Effect of electroacupuncture of "Weizhong" (BL40) on iron metabolism disorder in rats with lumbar multifidus muscle injury].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) of "Weizhong" (BL40) on the disorder of iron metabolism and the level of oxidative stress after lumbar multifidus muscle injury (LMMI), so as to explore its mechanisms underlying promoting the repair of LMMI. METHODS: Male SD rats were randomly divided into normal, model and EA groups (6 rats in each group). The LMMI model was established by injecting 0.5% bupivacaine (BPVC) solution (400 µL) into the lumbar multifidus muscle with the syringe-needle close to the spinous process (L4-L5). Twenty-four hours after successful establishment of the model, EA (2 Hz/15 Hz, 2 mA) was applied to bilateral BL40 for 30 min, once a day for 2 days. Histopathological changes of the multifid muscle were observed under microscope after H.E. staining, and the iron granules in the multifid muscle tissue observed after Prussian blue staining. The expression of glutathione synthase (GSS) was detected by Western blot, and the expressions of iron regulatory protein 1 (IRP1), ferroportin (Fpn), ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1, iron metabolism-related proteins) and gluta-thione peroxidase 4 (GPX4, functions in protecting cells against detrimental lipid peroxidation and governing a novel form of regulated necrotic cell death, called ferroptosis) mRNAs were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The contents of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by biochemical methods. RESULTS: H.E. staining showed large areas of necrosis and breakage of muscle fibers, disordered arrangement of muscle fibers, widened muscle cell space, accompanying with a large number of inflammatory cell infiltration in the multifidus muscle tissue of the model group, which was relatively milder in the EA group. Outcomes of Prussian blue staining showed that compared with the normal group, there were more iron particles in the multifidus muscle tissue and enlarged muscle fiber gaps, which was also milder in the EA group. Compared with the normal group, the expression level of IRP1 mRNA and content of MDA were significantly increased (P<0.001), the expression levels of Fpn, FTH1 and GPX4 mRNAs and GSS protein, and the content of GSH were considerably decreased (P<0.001) in the model group. In comparison with the model group, the increase of IRP1 mRNA expression and MDA content, as well as the decrease of Fpn, FTH1 and GPX4 mRNAs expressions and GSH content were reversed in the EA group (P<0.001,P<0.05,P<0.01). CONCLUSION: EA of BL40 has a protect effect in BPVC-induced injury of lumbar multifidus muscle in rats, which may be related to its functions in improving iron metabolism to reduce oxidative damage by regulating expression of IRP1, Fpn and FTH1.

Early Recovery of Exercise-Related Muscular Injury by HBOT.

Early recovery from muscular injury is crucial for elite athletes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been reported to be beneficial in terms of accelerating cell recovery and tissue repair, which are considered to be helpful for eliminating fatigue and recovering stamina. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of HBOT for exercise-related muscular injury. Forty-one athletes with exercise-related muscular injuries were recruited and randomized into an HBOT group and a control group. All participants received 10 sessions of either HBOT or placebo treatment. The brief pain inventory (BPI) was completed, and serum samples were analyzed. Data were collected before treatment (T1), at the end of the fifth treatment session (T2), at the end of the tenth treatment session (T3), and two weeks after T3 (T4). At T3, the HBOT group showed prominent reductions in the levels of creatine phosphokinase (CK), glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), and myoglobin (MB), which lasted until T4. However, the control group did not present any statistical differences in levels from T1 to T4. In terms of pain intensity and interference, the HBOT group showed significant improvements at T3, while no improvements were observed in the control group. In conclusion, HBOT facilitates the early recovery of exercise-related muscular injury. This trial is registered with ISRCTN17817041.

Supplementation with fish oil reduces morphological aspects of muscle damage induced by intense exercise in rats / Suplementação com óleo de peixe reduz aspectos morfológicos de lesão muscular induzida por exercícios intensos em ratos

AIMS: To investigate the effects of resistance exercise and fish oil intake on muscle morphology in Wistar rats. METHODS: Forty-eight animals that performed resistance exercise were initially divided into two groups. One group did not take fish oil and the other group took fish oil. The animals of the second group underwent training and took fish oil for eight weeks. At the end of the last resistance exercise session, the 48 rats were organized into six subgroups of eight each, according to the time gap (12, 24 or 48 hours) elapsed until the gastrocnemius muscle withdrawal procedure. At each established time after the last resistance exercise session, the gastrocnemius muscle was removed for morphological analysis. RESULTS: Skeletal muscle cells of the animals that did not receive fish oil presented higher scores of edema, especially those from the groups that had their muscles withdrawn at 24 and 48 hours of time gap. As for the group that took fish oil, we observed a smaller amount of inflammatory infiltrate and reduced areas of necrosis compared to animals that exercised without the use of fish oil, at all post-exercise time gaps. CONCLUSIONS: Fish oil intake attenuated morphological changes in muscle tissue after high-intensity exercises

OBJETIVOS: Investigar os efeitos do exercício resistido e da ingestão de óleo de peixe na morfologia da fibra muscular em ratos Wistar. MÉTODOS: Quarenta e oito animais realizaram exercício resistido e foram divididos inicialmente em dois grupos. Um dos grupos não recebia óleo de peixe e o outro grupo ingeria o óleo de peixe. Os animais do segundo grupo realizaram o treinamento e ingeriram o óleo de peixe por um período de oito semanas. Ao final da última sessão de exercício resistido os animais foram organizados em seis subgrupos de oito cada, segundo o intervalo de tempo (12, 24 e 48 horas) transcorrido até o procedimento de retirada do músculo gastrocnêmio. Em cada tempo determinado após a última sessão de exercício resistido, o músculo gastrocnêmio foi retirado para análise morfológica. RESULTADOS: As células do músculo esquelético dos animais que não receberam óleo de peixe apresentaram escores maiores de edema, especialmente as dos grupos que tiveram os músculos retirados em 24 e 48 horas. No grupo que ingeriu o óleo de peixe observou-se menor quantidade de infiltrado inflamatório e áreas de necrose reduzidas em comparação com os animais que se exercitavam sem o uso de óleo de peixe, em todos os intervalos de tempo pós-exercício. CONCLUSÕES: A ingestão de óleo de peixe atenuou as alterações morfológicas no tecido muscular após exercícios de alta intensidade.

Photobiomodulation and different macrophages phenotypes during muscle tissue repair.

Macrophages play a very important role in the conduction of several regenerative processes mainly due to their plasticity and multiple functions. In the muscle repair process, while M1 macrophages regulate the inflammatory and proliferative phases, M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophages direct the differentiation and remodelling phases, leading to tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of red and near infrared (NIR) photobiomodulation (PBM) on macrophage phenotypes and correlate these findings with the repair process following acute muscle injury. Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: control; muscle injury; muscle injury + red PBM; and muscle injury + NIR PBM. After 2, 4 and 7 days, the tibialis anterior muscle was processed for analysis. Macrophages phenotypic profile was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and correlated with the different stages of the skeletal muscle repair by the qualitative and quantitative morphological analysis as well as by the evaluation of IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-ß mRNA expression. Photobiomodulation at both wavelengths was able to decrease the number of CD68+ (M1) macrophages 2 days after muscle injury and increase the number of CD163+ (M2) macrophages 7 days after injury. However, only NIR treatment was able to increase the number of CD206+ M2 macrophages (Day 2) and TGF-ß mRNA expression (Day 2, 4 and 7), favouring the repair process more expressivelly. Treatment with PBM was able to modulate the inflammation phase, optimize the transition from the inflammatory to the regeneration phase (mainly with NIR light) and improve the final step of regeneration, enhancing tissue repair.

RGTA® or ReGeneraTing Agents mimic heparan sulfate in regenerative medicine: from concept to curing patients.

The importance of extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity in maintaining normal tissue function is highlighted by numerous pathologies and situations of acute and chronic injury associated with dysregulation or destruction of ECM components. Heparan sulfate (HS) is a key component of the ECM, where it fulfils important functions associated with tissue homeostasis. Its degradation following tissue injury disrupts this delicate equilibrium and may impair the wound healing process. ReGeneraTing Agents (RGTA®s) are polysaccharides specifically designed to replace degraded HS in injured tissues. The unique properties of RGTA® (resistance to degradation, binding and protection of ECM structural and signaling proteins, like HS) permit the reconstruction of the ECM, restoring both structural and biochemical functions to this essential substrate, and facilitating the processes of tissue repair and regeneration. Here, we review 25 years of research surrounding this HS mimic, supporting the mode of action, pre-clinical studies and therapeutic efficacy of RGTA® in the clinic, and discuss the potential of RGTA® in new branches of regenerative medicine.

Protección antioxidante de zarzamora para disminuir daño muscular en atletas de elite / Proteção antioxidante da amora-preta para reduzir danos musculares em atletas de elite / Blackberry antioxidant protection to prevent muscle damage in elite athletes

La actividad física de alta intensidad o competencia puede generar daño muscular pudiendo afectar el rendimiento de los atletas. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar si los antioxidantes presentes en la zarzamora favorecen el proceso de recuperación sobre el daño muscular en atletas a través de la cuantificación de creatincinasa (CK) y urea tras una semana de competencia. Se evaluó la CK y urea en plasma del grupo experimental (GE) y un grupo placebo (GP), en las siguientes etapas: (basal) previo a la ingesta del jugo, (pre) al inicio de la competencia, (final) al final de la competencia, (24h), (48h) y (72h) finalizado el último partido. En relación a la CK, se observaron diferencias significativas en el GE en las etapas de pre y la final con respecto a la basal (p < 0.05), en la toma final con respecto a la pre (p < 0.05) y en la toma 48h y 72h con relación a la final (p < 0.05). En el GP únicamente se encontraron diferencias significativas (p < 0.05) entre las tomas 48h y 72h con relación a la final. En la concentración de urea se presentó diferencia en las tomas final, 24h y 48 h con relación a la pre (p < 0.05), en el GP no hubo diferencias significativas en ninguna de las tomas. Estos resultados sugieren que el consumo de zarzamora contribuye a la recuperación del daño muscular (AU)

High intensity physical activity can provoke muscle damage and consequently affect athletes’ performance. The aim of this study was to determine if antioxidants contained in blackberry can stimulate athletes’ processes of recovery from muscle damage, using Creatine Kinase (CK) quantification and urea values after a week of competition as indicators. Participants were divided into an experimental (EG) and a placebo group (CG). In both groups, CK and urea in plasma were measured before, during and after competition. Significant differences were observed in EG at pre and post phases, compared to the basal (p < 0.05). Further, significant differences were found in the pre-post analysis of EG (p < 0.05), as well as after 48h and 72h compared with post-test (p < 0.05). Significant differences were also found for CG (p < 0.05) at 48h and 72h compared to post-test. As regard to urea concentration, differences were shown at post-test, after 24h, and after 48h compared to pre-test (p < 0.05). CG showed no significant differences at any stage of the research. These results suggest that consumption of blackberries may contribute to muscle damage recovery (AU)

A atividade física de alta intensidade ou a competição pode levar a lesão muscular e pode afetar o desempenho dos atletas. O objectivo deste estudo foi determinar se antioxidantes presentes na amora-preta favorecem o processo de recuperação de danos musculares em atletas através da quantificação da creatina quinase (CK) e ureia após uma semana de competição. CK e ureia foi avaliada no plasma do grupo experimental (GE) e um grupo de placebo (GP), nos seguintes passos: (linha de base) antes da ingestão de sumo, (pré) no início da competição (final) para final da competição, (24h), (48h) e (72h) no término o último jogo. No que diz respeito a CK, tiveram diferenças significativas no GE no pré e último em relação ao basal (p< .05), na ingestão final sobre a pré (p < .05) e na ingestão 48h e 72h em relação à final (p < .05). No GP unicamente foram encontradas diferenças significativas (p < .05) entre as ingestões 48h e 72h em relação à final. Na concentração de ureia apareceu uma diferença nas ingestões finais, 24h e 48 h em relação ao pré (p < .05) no GP não houve diferenças significativas em nenhumas das ingestões. Estes resultados sugerem que o consumo de amorapreta contribui para a recuperação de lesões musculares (AU)

[Effects of electroacupuncture at "Weizhong" (BL 40) on regeneration and morphology in rats with bupivacaine-induced multifidus muscle injury].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the intervention effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Weizhong" (BL 40) on rats with bupivacaine-induced multifidus muscle injury, so as to explore the action mechanism. METHODS: A total of 72 rats were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, a Weizhong group and a Shenshu group, 18 rats in each group. Each group was again randomly divided into a 4-day subgroup, a 7-day subgroup and a 14-day subgroup, 6 rats in each subgroup. Rats in the model group, Weizhong group and Shenshu group were treated with intramuscular injection of 0.5% bupivacaine (BPVC) to establish the model of multifidus muscle injury. Rats in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group were treated with EA at "Weizhong" (BL 40) and "Shenshu" (BL 23), 20 min per treatment, once a day. Each subgroup was treated for 4 days, 7 days and 14 days respectively. Rats in the control group and model group were treated with immobilization. The morphology and cross sectional area (CSA) changes of multifidus with HE and Masson staining at different time points were observed; the expression of insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and myogenic differentiation antigen (MyoD) was measured by immunohistochemical method. RESULTS: After the modeling, there were significant morphology changes of multifidus at different time points, which was not fully recovered after 14 days. The morphological observation in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group was superior to that in the model group. At 7th day, the CSA in the Weizhong group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05); at 14th day, the CSA in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). At 4th day and 7th day, the expression of IGF-1 in the model group was higher than that in the control group (both P < 0.01); at 4th day, that in the Weizhong group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01), and that in the Weizhong group was higher than that in the Shenshu group (P < 0.05), and that in the Shenshu group was as higher than that in the model group (P < 0.05); at 14th day, that in the Shenshu group was higher than that in the model and Weizhong group (P < 0.01). At 4th day, the expression of MyoD in the Weizhong group and Shenshu group was higher than that in the model group (P < 0.01), which was more significant in the Weizhong group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture at "Weizhong" (BL 40) and "Shenshu" (BL 23) can both promote the regeneration of multifidus muscle injury. EA at "Weizhong" (BL 40) has a better effect at early phase, which may be related to the up-regulation of IGF-1 and MyoD and the completion of the proliferation of myoblast in advance.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture Serum on Proliferation of Cultured Multifidus Muscle Satellite Cells and Expression of Pax-7, MyoD and p-Akt].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) serum on proliferation of multifidus muscle sa-tellite cells (SCs) and expression of paired box transcription factor Pax-7, MyoD and protein kinase B (PKB or Akt) proteins of SCs, so as to explore its underlying mechanism in promoting repair of multifidus muscles. METHODS: Thirty-two SD rats were randomly assigned to control, model, EA-Weizhong (BL 40) and EA-Shenshu (BL 23) groups. The multifidus muscle injury (MFMI) model was established by injection of 0.5% bupivacaine hydrochloride (400 µL) into the bilateral L4-L5 paravertebral muscles (4 points, 100 µL for each point). EA stimulation was separately applied to bilateral BL 40 and BL 23 for 20 min, once daily, 4 days altogether. Blood samples of the abdominal artery of rats in the above mentioned 4 groups were separately collected for extracting serum, followed by deactivation and filtration, and then were respectively applied to the Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Media (DMEM) culturing each multifidus muscle SCs of the normal serum, model serum, EA-BL 40 serum and EA-BL 40 serum+LY 294002 (an inhibitor of phosphotidylinsitol-3-kinase, PI 3 K), EA-BL 23 serum and EA-BL 23 serum+LY 294002 groups for ana-lyzing the impact of EA serum on the proliferation state of SCs by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) methods, respectively. The expression of Pax-7, MyoD and phosphorylated (p)-Akt proteins of the cultured SCs was detected for characterization of SCs by Western blot. RESULTS: Compared with the normal serum group, the proliferation levels (detected by both CCK-8- and EdU) and the expression levels of MyoD and p-Akt proteins of SCs in the model serum group were significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01), while in comparison with the model serum group, the proliferation and expression levels of MyoD and p-Akt proteins of SCs were further significantly increased in both EA-BL 23 and EA-BL 40 serum groups (P<0.01, P<0.05), but not in the EA-BL 40 serum+LY 294002 and EA-BL 23 serum+LY 294002 groups (P>0.05), suggesting an involvement of PI 3 K in the proliferation of SCs. No marked differences were found in the proliferation levels between the EA-BL 23 and EA-BL 40 serum groups and in the expression levels of Pax-7 proteins among the 6 serum groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both EA-BL 40 and EA-BL 23 serum can promote proliferation of multifidus muscle SCs, which may contribute to the effect of EA intervention in promoting repair of the injured muscle, partially by way of Akt/PI 3 K signaling.

Effects of nutritional supplementation with l-arginine on repair of injuries due to muscle strain: experimental study on rats / Efeitos da suplementação nutricional com L-arginina no reparo de lesões por estiramento muscular. Estudo experimental em ratos

Avaliar a influência da suplementação oral com arginina na regeneração de lesão por estiramento do músculo tibial anterior de ratos. MÉTODO: Usaram-se 24 ratos Wistar (492,5 ± 50,45 gramas), induzidos com lesão por estiramento dos músculos tibiais anteriores e separados em três grupos com oito ratos cada. No grupo não tratado (GNT), após a indução das lesões, os ratos foram observados por 24 horas, nos grupos simulação (GS) e arginina (GA) receberam, por gavagem diariamente, respectivamente solução salina isotônica e solução de arginina, durante sete dias. Ao término dos períodos foram coletadas amostras de sangue para as avaliações séricas de creatina-quinase (CK), desidrogenase lática (LDH), aspartato-aminotransferase (AST) e proteína C reativa (PCR). Foram ressecados os músculos tibiais anteriores (direitos e esquerdos) para avaliações histopatológicas das lesões musculares e pesquisa de edema, hemorragia, desorganização ou alteração morfométrica das fibras musculares. E foi feita a reparação tecidual, para pesquisa da proliferação de tecido adiposo, angiogênese e fibras colágenas. Empregaram-se os testes ANOVA e tde Student com p ≤ 0,05 para significação estatística. RESULTADOS: Nas avaliações séricas o GA mostrou valores menores nas dosagens de CPK e maiores nas dosagens de AST. Nas avaliações histopatológicas, no GNT foram evidenciados edema e hemorragia compatíveis com lesões por estiramento, no GS edema, hemorragia com proliferação de tecido adiposo e fibras colágenas e no GA. Além dos achados do GS destacou-se intensa angiogênese. CONCLUSÃO: A suplementação oral com arginina não causou alterações metabólicas importantes que contraindiquem seu uso e induziu angiogênese durante a reparação de lesões musculares por estiramento.

To evaluate the influence of oral supplementation with arginine on regeneration of injuries due to straining of the anterior tibial muscle of rats. METHODS: Twenty-four Wistar rats of weight 492.5 ± 50.45 g were used. Injuries were induced through straining the anterior tibial muscles. The rats were separated into three groups of eight rats each. In the untreated group (UTG), after induction of injuries, the rats were observed for 24 h. In the simulation group (SG) and the arginine group (AG) respectively, the rats received isotonic saline solution and arginine solution via direct gavage, over a seven-day period. At the end of the period, blood samples were collected for serum evaluations of creatine kinase (CK), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and C-reactive protein (CRP). The right and left anterior tibial muscles were resected for histopathological evaluations on the muscle injuries, investigating edema, hemorrhage and disorganization or morphometric alteration of the muscle fibers. The tissue repair was investigated in terms of proliferation of adipose tissue, angiogenesis and collagen fibers. The ANOVA and Student's tmethods were used and p≤ 0.05 was taken to be statistically significant. RESULTS: In the serum evaluations, the AG showed lower CK assay values and higher AST values. In the histopathological evaluation, the UTG presented edema and hemorrhage compatible with injuries due to strain; the SG presented edema and hemorrhage with proliferation of adipose tissue and collagen fibers; and the AG presented not only the findings of the SG but also, especially, intense angiogenesis. CONCLUSION: Oral supplementation with arginine did not cause any significant metabolic alterations that would contraindicate its use and it induced angiogenesis during the repair of muscles injured due to strain.

O efeito da laserterapia de baixa potência em aspectos histológicos em um modelo experimental de lesão muscular por estiramento controlado em ratos / The effect of low-level laser therapy in histological aspects in a model of experimental muscle injury in rat controlled muscle strain

Estiramento muscular e outras desordens musculoesqueléticas são as principais causas que desabilitam atletas e praticantes de atividades físicas. Seu tratamento inclui AINES que desencadeiam vários efeitos adversos. Objetivo: o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito dos tratamentos com Laserterapia de Baixa Potência e do anti-inflamatório diclofenaco, tanto individualmente quanto combinados (laser + aplicação por vias tópica ou intramuscular de diclofenaco) em aspectos histológicos no modelo experimental de lesão muscular por estiramento controlado em ratos. Materiais e Métodos: a lesão por estiramento foi induzida, por sobre carga, no músculo tibial anterior de ratos (n=6). O grupo controle não recebeu tratamento, grupos lesados receberam um único tratamento com diclofenaco através das vias tópica ou intramuscular, irradiação com laser (3 J, 830 nm, 100 mW) ou os dois tratamentos conjuntamente, laser e diclofenaco, totalizando seis grupos experimentais. Os tratamentos foram realizados 1 hora após a lesão. O músculo tibial foi removido para análise histológica, três horas após a indução da lesão e também seis horas após indução. Resultados e discussão: a avaliação histológica demonstrou uma melhor organização estrutural do tecido muscular, células bem delineadas e menor quantidade de fibras fragmentadas e menor descontinuidade de acidofilia nos grupos tratados com laser e diclofenaco, nas duas vias de aplicação, tanto no período de 3 horas quanto no de 6 horas após a lesão. Conclusão: a irradiação do laser de baixa potência conjuntamente ao diclofenaco tópico e intramuscular melhorou aspectos histológicos do tecido muscular, após lesão por estiramento, na fase aguda quando comparado com os demais tratamentos...

Muscle stretch and other musculoskeletal disorders are the main causes that disable athletes and fitness enthusiasts. His treatment includes NAIDs that trigger various adverse effects. Objective: the objective of the study the effect of treatments with Low Power Laser (LPL) Therapy and the anti-inflammatory diclofenac, both individually and combined (LPL + intramuscular or topical application of diclofenac pathways) in histological aspects in an experimental model was to evaluate muscle injury in rats controlled stretch. Materials and Methods: the injury was induced by muscle stretch, overload, the tibialis anterior muscle of rats (n = 6). The control group received no treatment, injured groups received a single treatment with diclofenac through the anti-inflammatory topical or intramuscular (AT and AIM), irradiation with LPL (3 J 830 nm, 100 mW), or the two treatments together, LPL and diclofenac (LPL/LPL or AT/AIM), totaling six experimental groups. All treatments were performed 1 hour after the injury. The right anterior tibial muscle was removed for histological analysis, within 3 hours after induction of the lesion and also 12 hours after induction. Results and discussion: histological evaluation in this study showed a better estructural organization of muscle tissue, cells and less well defined amount of fragmented fibers in the group treated with LPL and LPL AT + 3J 3J + AIM in both the 3-hour period and in 6 hours following injury. Conclusion: treatment with LPL jointly to the topic and intramuscular diclofenac improved the histological aspects of muscle tissue after stretch injury in the acute phase compared with the other treatments...

Beneficios de la ingesta del Phlebodium decumanum sobre el daño muscular al efectuar ejercicio físico intenso en sujetos sedentarios / Benefits of decumanum phlebodium intake on the muscle damage in the response to intense physical exercise in sedentary subjects

Introducción: El ejercicio intenso provoca un daño muscular inflamatorio que, en sujetos sedentarios provoca un aumento del riesgo cardiovascular. El Phlebodium decumanum (PD) ha evidenciado efectos inmunomoduladores protectores frente a ese daño en los deportistas. Para conocer los efectos del PD en una población sedentaria frente al ejercicio excéntrico, y como modelo del daño muscular inflamatorio. Metodología: Se llevó a cabo un estudio experimental, doble ciego, multigrupo, randomizado, con un grupo experimental (n = 17) al que se le administró una formulación de PD (3,6 g/sujeto distribuidos en 9 dosis de 400 mg desde el 3.er día pretest), y un grupo control (n = 16) que tomó sustancia placebo. Se realizaron dos ergoespirometrías en tapiz rodante a cada participante: una previa al estudio (protocolo de Bruce modificado) para descartar signos de isquemia durante el esfuerzo y valorar el VO2max; la segunda, aplicando un protocolo excéntrico (14% de desnivel descendente), durante 10 minutos en estado estable a una intensidad entre 70-80% del VO2max individual, como protocolo experimental. Se efectuaron comparaciones intragrupo e intergrupo del porcentaje de cambio pre-postesfuerzo en variables sanguíneas y de funcionalidad muscular. Resultados: El estudio evidencia aumentos significativos de enzimas musculares MG, CPK y LDH en los dos grupos de estudio, sin cambios para la TncI, siendo significativamente menores en el grupo al que se le administró PD. Se observaron reducciones significativas de los test funcionales SJ, CMJ en ambos grupos, lo que mostró un apreciable menor descenso en el grupo PD. Se apreció una reducción del índice elástico y de la dinamomentría manual solo en el grupo control, aunque las diferencias con el grupo PD no alcanzaron una significación estadística. Conclusiones: El protocolo del ejercicio excéntrico en el presente estudio ha inducido daños musculoesqueléticos y en la funcionalidad muscular, que han resultado significativamente menores en el grupo PD, al mostrar los efectos protectores del Phlebodium Decumanum en tratamientos cortos, frente al daño muscular también en el esfuerzo agudo (AU)

Introduction: Intense physical exercise provoke muscle damage, that in sedentary people can increase cardiovascular risk. Phlebodium decumanum (PD) has shown to have immunomodulator effects in models of moderateintense physical activities in well conditioned groups. To evaluate the PD effects during eccentric exercise, as a model of muscle inflammation protocol, on a sedentary population with cardiovascular risk. Methods. This is an experimental, double-blind, multigroup randomized study. Experimental Group 1 (n = 17) received PD, 9 dosis of 400 mg (total amount 3.6 g) every 8 hours during 3 days, and Control Group 2 (n = 16) received a placebo. All the subjects performed two treadmill ergoespirometry tests: first, a modified Bruce protocol to discard ischemic responses during exercise and to evaluate VO2max before the experimental phase; and second, with an eccentric protocol (14% descending ramp test) during 10 minutes in stable state at 70-80% VO2max, as experimental inflammatory protocol. We compared intra and inter groups to evaluate differences in the pre and post-test differences results on blood muscle damage variables. Results: The study shown statistically significant differences in all pre-post intra-groups results in muscle damage variables (CK, LDH and Myoglobin, but not in Cardiac Troponin), and in functional lower-limb test (SJ and CMJ). The comparison of inter-group results shown less muscle damage and less functional lower-limb deterioration in Group 1 compared with Control group, with statistical significance in both cases. Differences in hand grip dynamometry were no statistically significant. Conclusions: The eccentric exercise protocol in that study has proven to be a good model to induce muscle and functional damage in sedentary people. Short PD treatment has shown to reduce muscle and functional acute damages compared with placebo control group in this specific population (AU)

Screening with a novel cell-based assay for TAZ activators identifies a compound that enhances myogenesis in C2C12 cells and facilitates muscle repair in a muscle injury model.

The transcriptional coactivator with a PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) cooperates with various transcriptional factors and plays various roles. Immortalized human mammalian epithelial MCF10A cells form spheres when TAZ is overexpressed and activated. We developed a cell-based assay using sphere formation by TAZ-expressing MCF10A cells as a readout to screen 18,458 chemical compounds for TAZ activators. Fifty compounds were obtained, and 47 were confirmed to activate the TAZ-dependent TEAD-responsive reporter activity in HEK293 cells. We used the derived subset of compounds as a TAZ activator candidate minilibrary and searched for compounds that promote myogenesis in mouse C2C12 myoblast cells. In this study, we focused on one compound, IBS008738. IBS008738 stabilizes TAZ, increases the unphosphorylated TAZ level, enhances the association of MyoD with the myogenin promoter, upregulates MyoD-dependent gene transcription, and competes with myostatin in C2C12 cells. TAZ knockdown verifies that the effect of IBS008738 depends on endogenous TAZ in C2C12 cells. IBS008738 facilitates muscle repair in cardiotoxin-induced muscle injury and prevents dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy. Thus, this cell-based assay is useful to identify TAZ activators with a variety of cellular outputs. Our findings also support the idea that TAZ is a potential therapeutic target for muscle atrophy.

Consecuencias del seudofisiculturismo en adolescentes / Conséquences du pseudo-culturisme chez les adolescents / Consequences of seuophysiculturism in adolescents

En la actualidad en Cuba algunos adolescentes y jóvenes, en su afán de aumentar rápido el tamaño de sus músculos se están inyectando aceite de soya de uso doméstico, lo cual les ha conducido a graves lesiones que incluso han puesto en peligro sus vidas. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar una nueva afección, mostrar las características de las lesiones y divulgar los resultados con fines educativos y de prevención. Se presentaron 3 casos sobre los efectos nocivos de la inyección de aceite de uso doméstico en músculos, en pacientes ingresados en el Hospital Pediátrico Eliseo ¨Noel¨ Caamaño de Matanzas de diciembre 2010 a mayo 2011. Sus características clínicas son gran aumento de volumen en músculos inyectados, el calor, rubor, intenso dolor e impotencia funcional con toma del estado general. El tratamiento quirúrgico fue incisión, desbridamiento y drenaje, que mostró abundante aceite, pus, sangre y fibras musculares necrosadas; proceder que se debe realizar múltiples veces. Las lesiones no ocurren de inmediato sino con intervalos variables, no al unísono sino desorganizadamente, con gran dificultad para su cicatrización. Se utilizó además tratamiento antibiótico de amplio espectro y cámara hiperbárica. Se concluye que la utilización de aceite de uso doméstico trae graves consecuencias a la salud, como la sepsis y necrosis severa de los músculos, hepatitis C, septicemia y peligro para la vida de quienes lo usan(AU)

At present, some teenagers and young people in Cuba, in their desire to quickly increase the size of their muscles, are injecting soybean oil for domestic use, which has led them to serious injuries and even risk to their lives. The aim of this work is to present this new condition, to show the characteristics of the lesions and spread the results for education and prevention. We presented three cases on the adverse effects of oil injection into muscles in patients who were admitted to the Paediatric Hospital Eliseo ¨Noel¨ Caamaño of Matanzas from December 2010 to May 2011. Their clinical features were a high increase in volume of the injected muscles, heat, redness, intense pain and functional impotence with general malaise. The surgical treatment consisted on the incision, debridement and drainage which showed abundant oil, pus, blood and necrotic muscle fibres, procedure that had to be performed many times. The lesions did not occur immediately, but with varying intervals and not in unison but in a disorganized form with great difficulty in healing. Treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotic was also used as well as hyperbaric chamber. We conclude that the use of domestic oil provokes serious consequences to health such as sepsis and serious muscle necrosis, Hepatitis C, septicaemia and danger to the lives of those who use it(AU)

Afin de développer rapidement leur masse musculaire, les adolescents et jeunes gens à Cuba ont l'habitude de s'injecter par voie intramusculaire de l'huile de soya à usage domestique, résultant en graves lésions et mettant même leurs vies en péril. Le but de ce travail est de présenter cette nouvelle affection, de montrer les caractéristiques des lésions, et de diffuser les résultats à des fins éducative et préventive. Les cas des trois jeunes patients hospitalisés à l'hôpital pédiatrique Eliseo Noel Camaño, à Matanzas, depuis décembre 2010 jusqu'à mais 2011, montrant les effets néfastes de l'injection intramusculaire de l'huile à usage domestique, sont présentés. Les caractéristiques cliniques comprennent une grande augmentation du volume des muscles injectés, chaleur, douleur intense, rougeur, impotence fonctionnelle, et malaise générale. Le traitement chirurgical a consisté en incision, débridement et drainage, montrant une quantité excessive d'huile, pus, sang et fibres musculaires nécrosées; cette opération a été répétée plusieurs fois. Les lésions ne se produisent pas d'immédiat, mais en intervalles variables et de façon désorganisée, rendant la cicatrisation difficile. Les patients ont été aussi traités par des antibiotiques à large spectre et par oxygénothérapie hyperbare. On conclu que l'emploi de l'huile à usage domestique a des conséquences nuisibles pour la santé telles que l'infection et la nécrose sévère des muscles, hépatite C, septicémie et danger pour la vie de ceux qui l'utilisent(AU)

Antioxidant and oligonutrient status, distribution of amino acids, muscle damage, inflammation, and evaluation of renal function in elite rugby players.

BACKGROUND: Our study investigated the biochemical and anthropometric characteristics in elite athletes of rugby union based in the south of France during the different periods of the competition to identify metabolic and biochemical adaptations to particular lifestyle conditions. METHODS: Participants included 35 players in 2008 and 43 players in 2009. Biochemical variables [creatinine, uric acid, creatine kinase (CK), alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, C-reactive protein] were evaluated. Specific protein levels (albumin, acid α-glycoprotein, prealbumin), vitamins (A, E, C), antioxidant enzymes [glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD)], oligoelements (Zn, Se, Cu, erythrocyte magnesium), homocysteine (Hcy), carnitine and the distribution of amino acids were specifically determined for our study during a pre-competition period (September 2008 and 2009). RESULTS: Globally, no deficit was observed for vitamins, oligonutrients and amino acids levels. The high SOD and GPx activities in rugby players suggest a presence of oxidative stress of exercise. The evaluation of renal function should be used with caution because of the interaction between creatinine and lean body mass. In addition, a profound effect of intense exercise on the CK values was reported to establish specific reference values for athletes. The analysis of the biological variation allows optimization of the interpretation of the changes from an increased or decreased baseline value from a season to the other one. CONCLUSIONS: The conclusions of present study were: 1) the necessity of rugby-specific reference intervals for CK and creatinine parameters; 2) the use of enzymatic creatinine for Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) and CKD-EPI, or cystatin C to improve glomerular filtration rate estimation; 3) to take into account the oxidative stress testifying of a bad recovery; and 4) better to take care the nutritional status of the players by adapting needs and amino acids supplementations but also to consider a follow-up of oxidative stress and antioxidants according our results.

Suplementación con bromelina en el daño muscular producido durante el ejercicio físico excéntrico. Estudio Bromesport / Bromelain supplementation on muscle damage produced during the eccentric exercise. Bromesport study

Introducción: Este estudio examina los efectos de la suplementación con bromelina sobre marcadores de daño muscular anátomoestructurales (edema intersticial), biológicos y funcionales de fuerza, provocado mediante un ejercicio físico con componente excéntrico, intensificado en algunos grupos con una suplementación de oclusión vascular. El objetivo es evaluar si la bromelina es útil para disminuir la clínica asociada con el DOMS y facilitar la recuperación de la fuerza muscular tras un trabajo excéntrico. Material y métodos: Estudio piloto, diseño cuasi-experimental multicéntrico, aleatorio, a doble ciego, paralelo, controlado con placebo. Se seleccionaron voluntarios sanos varones, repartidos aleatoriamente en los siguientes grupos: Sin oclusión Suplementado con Bromelina (GES), y Placebo (GEP), con Oclusión Suplementado con Bromelina (GEOS) y Placebo (GEOP). En todos los sujetos se evaluó el dolor muscular, fuerza explosiva (squat jump y counter movement jump), signos biológicos de citolisis (creatin fosfo-quinasa, lactato-deshidrogenasa y creatinina), y edema intersticial global y segmentario. Los tests se realizaron justo antes (T1), inmediatamente después del ejercicio excéntrico (T2), a las 24h (T3), 48h (T4) y 72h (T5).Los sujetos del grupo suplementado recibieron extracto de 50 mg, Rottapharm, SL), (100 mg, 30 minutos previos a la realización del ejercicio y 50 mg al finalizar la sesión), mientras que el otro grupo, recibió placebo, ambos en forma de comprimidos. Resultados y conclusiones: Se analizaron 45 varones sanos de edad (20,49±1,70). La suplementación con bromelina es eficaz para disminuir el dolor asociado al DOMS en todas las fases, especialmente a las 48 horas post-lesión favoreciendo una disminución más rápida del dolor. Previene y neutraliza el edema intramuscular agudo producido en la realización de un ejercicio con componente excéntrico. Disminuye la pérdida precoz de la fuerza explosiva elástica tras la realización de un trabajo excéntrico acelerando la reparación tisular tras la lesión. Estos resultados demuestran que la suplementación con bromelina previene la citolisis precoz, favoreciendo así la regeneración en fases muy tempranas de la lesión muscular y manteniendo su efecto en la fase inflamatoria de la lesión. Todo esto permite mejorar la recuperación muscular y disminuir las lesiones relacionadas con el trabajo físico con componente excéntrico (AU)

Introduction: This study examines the effects of bromelain supplementation on anatomical-structural (interstitial edema), biological and functional features of strength markers of muscle damage, caused by physical exercise with eccentric component, intensified in some groups with a supplementation of vascular occlusion. The objective is to assess whether bromelain is helpful to reduce the clinic associated with DOMS and facilitate the recovery of muscles trength after eccentric work. Material and methods: A pilot study, quasi-experimental multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo controlled trial. We selected healthy male volunteers, randomly divided into the following groups: No occlusion Supplemented with bromelain (GES) and Placebo (GEP), with occlusion Supplemented with bromelain(GEOS) and Placebo (GEOP). In all subjects was assessed muscle pain, explosive strength (squat jump and counter movement jump), biological signs of cytolysis (creatinfosfo kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and creatinine), and global and segmental interstitial edema. The tests were performed just before (T1), immediately after eccentric exercise (T2), at 24h (T3), 48h (T4) and 72 h (T5). Subjects in the supplemented group received bromelain extract (50mg Fortilase, Rottapharm, SL), (100 mg, 30 minuts prior to exercise and 50 mg at the end of the session), while the other group received placebo, both in the form of tablets. Results and conclusions: Forty-four healthy older men (20.49±1.70) were analyzed. The supplementation with bromelain is effective in reducing the pain associated with DOMS at all stages, especially at 48 hours post-injury favoring a faster decrease in pain. Prevents and neutralizes acute intramuscular edema occurred in the execution of an eccentric exercise component. Decreases the loss of explosive strength after the completion of a job eccentric work accelerating tissue repair after the injury. These results demonstrate that bromelain supplementation preventsearly cytolysis, thus promoting regeneration in very early stages of muscle injury and maintaining its effect in the inflammatory phase of injury. All this allows to improve muscle recovery and reduce injuries related to physical work with eccentric component (AU)

La suplementación de la L-arginina no afecta la producción de óxido nítrico ni la recuperación muscular / No effect of L-arginine supplementation on nitric oxide production and muscle recovery

Introducción: La L-arginina (L-Arg) es un aminoácido semiesencial y precursor de la síntesis de óxido nítrico (NO). Recientemente, los suplementos nutricionales que contiene L-Arg son comercializados con la pretensión de promover vasodilatación, debido al aumento de la producción de NO en músculo. El resultado de la vasodilatación elevaría la perfusión sanguínea, promoviendo un mayor aporte de nutrientes y oxigeno, los cuales pueden mejorar el rendimiento y la recuperación muscular. Propósito: Identificar el efecto agudo de la suplementación con L-Arg sobre la ratio de recuperación del trabajo (WRR), potencia media, trabajo total (TW3S) y los indicadores de producción de NO, nitrito y nitrato plasmático (NOx), durante el ejercicio de contra-resistencia. Métodos: Diecisiete hombres sanos y entrenados, participaron en un estudio, doble ciego, controlado con placebo. Se tomaron muestras de sangre antes y 90 min después de la ingesta de 6 g de LArg o placebo. El protocolo de ejercicio (3 series de 10 repeticiones máximas de extensión de codo isocinético concéntrico en 60º.s-1 con 2 min de descanso entre las series) se inició 80 minutos después de la suplementación. Mediciones de NOx se realizaron por el método de Griess usando un espectrofotómetro de absorción a 540 nm. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias significativas entre el grupo suplementado con L-Arg vs placebo en lo referente parámetros de WRR, potencia media y TW3S (2630,4 ± 758,0vs 2573,1 ± 669,9 Joules). Además, no se observó diferenciasignificativa en el NOx plasmático, en ningún momento, entre el grupo suplementado con L-Arg vs placebo, antes de la suplementación (9,8 ± 2,3vs 9,5 ± 1,4 micro mol/L) o inmediatamente después del ejercicio (11,9 ± 5,5 vs 10,2 ±2,3 micro mol/L). Conclusión: Nuestros resultados indican que la ingesta aguda de L-Arg no aumenta la producción de NO, ni mejora el rendimiento recuperación muscular. En base a estos resultados, es precipitado recomendar suplementos nutricionales que contienen L-Arg como ayuda ergogénica para optimizar la recuperación muscular después del ejercicio de contra-resistencia en individuos sanos y entrenados (AU)

Introduction: L-arginine (L-Arg) is a semi-essential aminoacid precursor to nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. Recently, nutritional supplements containing L-Arg have been marketed with the purpose of promote vasodilation, due to an increased production of NO in the exercising muscle. The resulting vasodilation would elevate blood perfusion, leading to a higher nutrient and oxygen delivery, which may enhance exercise performance and muscular recovery. Purpose: Identify the acute effect of L-Arg supplementation on work recovery ratio (WRR), average power, total work (TW3S) and indicators of NO production, plasma nitrite and nitrate(NOx), during a resistance exercise protocol. Methods: Seventeen healthy and resistance-trained males participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Blood samples were collected before and 90 min (immediately post-exercise) after ingestion of oral 16g of L-Arg or placebo. The exercise protocol (3 sets of 10 maximal voluntary contractions of isokinetic concentric elbow extension at 60 o.s-1with 2-min of rest between sets) was initiated 80 min after supplementation. NOx measurements were made by a traditional Griess reaction colorimetric method using a spectrophotometer monitoring absorbance at 540 nm. Results: No significant difference between L-Arg versus placebo supplemented groups was observed on WRR, average power and TW3S (2630.4 ± 758.0 versus 2573.1 ± 669.9 Joules). Furthermore, no significant difference was observed in plasma NOx at any time point between L-Arg versus placebo supplemented groups at baseline (9.8 ± 2.3 vs. 9.5 ± 1.4 micre mol/L) and immediately post-exercise (11.9 ± 5.5 vs. 10.2 ±2.3 micremol/L). Conclusion: Our data indicates that acute ingestion of L-Arg does not increase NO production nor enhances muscle performance and recovery. Based on this fact, it is still premature to recommend nutritional supplements containing L-Arg as an ergogenic aid to optimize muscle recovery after resistance exercise bouts in healthy and resistance-trained subjects (AU)

Ethnobotanic study of Randia aculeata (Rubiaceae) in Jamapa, Veracruz, Mexico, and its anti-snake venom effects on mouse tissue

In Mexico, medicinal plants are widely used. The use of Randia aculeata by healers against snakebites has never been scientifically tested in relation to possible effects on blood parameters and muscle tissue damage. Interviews were carried out in Jamapa, Veracuz, Mexico, with local residents to collect information about the traditional use of Randia aculeata. In this locality, seven pieces of fruit from the plant are mixed in a liter of alcohol, and then administered orally against snakebites. By using histological techniques and a murine model, we explored its cytoprotective properties against the effects of Crotalus simus and Bothrops asper venoms. Possible protections provided by the plant against tissue damage to skeletal and cardiac muscles and against the typical loss of red blood cells were analyzed. Randia aculeata caused an increase in microhematocrit and total hemoglobin, parameters that are often decremented in association with the loss of red blood cells, which is a characteristic effect of animal venom. Randia aculeata was also shown to protect against the lowering of platelet levels caused by Bothrops asper venom. Finally, Randia aculeata produced a partial inhibition of necrosis following administration of snake venom in skeletal and myocardial muscles. The present results provide solid evidence for the traditional use of Randia aculeata against snakebites, as demonstrated by protection against muscular tissue damage and the diminution of red blood cells.

[Clinical observation on warming-promotion acupuncture for lumbar muscle strain].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the theraputic effect of warming-promotion acupuncture for lumbar muscle strain. METHODS: Sixty-four cases were randomly divided into a warming-promotion acupuncture group(group A) and a routine acupuncture group (group B), 32 cases in each group. The group A was treated with acupuncture at Shenshu (BL 23) and Guanyuanshu (BL 26) with warming-promotion acupuncture method, (Guanyuanshu (BL 26), Yaoyangguan (GV 3), Weizhong (BL 40) with twirling uniform reinforcing-reducing method. The group B was treated with acupuncture at same acupoints only with twirling uniform reinforcing-reducing method. After four-session treatment, the theraputic effect of two groups was compared. RESULTS: The cured and markedly effective rate of 65.6% (21/32) in the group A, which was superior to that of 40.6% (13/32)in the group B (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The efficiency on lumbar muscle strain treated with warming-promotion acupuncture is superior to that with routine acupuncture, means a suitable manipulation can enhance the therapeutic effect.

Uso da suplementação com ácidos graxos poli-insaturados omega-3 associado ao exercício físico: uma revisão / Use of supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids Omega-3 associated with exercise: a review

Estudos realizados na área de saúde fazem crer que os ácidos graxos poli-insaturados ômega-3 (AGPI-n3) derivados de óleo de peixe, possam ser úteis em meio atlético. Visando um melhor esclarecimento, essa revisão tem como objetivo reunir e abordar evidências acerca do uso da suplementação com AGPI-n3 no exercício físico e os efeitos dessa suplementação, além de contribuir tanto para o conhecimento quanto para a compreensão sobre o tema. Desta forma foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica, que revisou periódicos nacionais e internacionais em banco de dados, livros, monografias, dissertações e teses. Há indícios de que o uso dos AGPIn3 possam atenuar os efeitos do processo inflamatório em lesões musculares por ajudarem na modulação e liberação de citocinas pró-inflamatórias. .

Abstract: Studies in health survey suggest that the polyunsaturated fatty acids omega-3 (PUFA-n3) derived from fish oil, may be useful in athletic environment. For a better explanation, the aim of this review is bring together and address the evidence regarding the use of supplementation PUFA-n3 inthe exercise and the effects of it, as well as contributing to both knowledge and understanding of the topic. Thus was performed a literature search that reviewed national and international journals in the database, books, monographs, dissertations and theses. There is evidence that the use of PUFAn3 can mitigate the effects of inflammation in muscle injuries by helping in the modulation andrelease of inflammatory cytokines.