Mild to moderate post-COVID-19 alters markers of lymphocyte activation, exhaustion, and immunometabolic responses that can be partially associated by physical activity level- an observational sub-analysis fit- COVID study.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate if physical activity is associated with systemic and cellular immunometabolic responses, in young adults after mild-to-moderate COVID-19 infection. Methods: Mild- to- moderate post-COVID-19 patients (70.50 ± 43.10 days of diagnosis; age: 29.4 (21.9- 34.9) years; BMI: 25.5 ± 4.3 kg m2 n = 20) and healthy age-matched controls (age: 29.3 (21.2 - 32.6) years; BMI: 25.4 ± 4.7 kg m2; n = 20) were evaluated. Physical activity levels (PAL), body composition, dietary habits, muscular and pulmonary function, mental health, sleep quality, metabolic parameters, immune phenotypic characterization, stimulated whole blood and PBMC culture (cytokine production), mRNA, and mitochondrial respiration in PBMCs were evaluated. Results: The post-COVID-19 group exhibited lower levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (p = 0.038); therefore, all study comparisons were performed with adjustment for MVPA. Post-COVID-19 impacted the pulmonary function (FEV1, FEV1%pred, FVC, and FVC %pred) compared with the control (p adjusted by MVPA (p adj) <0.05). Post-COVID-19 exhibited lower levels of serum IL-6 (p adj <0.01), whereas it showed higher serum IL-10, triglyceride, leptin, IgG, ACE activity, TNFRSF1A, and PGE2 (p adj <0.05) levels compared with controls. Post-COVID-19 presented a lower percentage of Treg cells (p adj = 0.03) and altered markers of lymphocyte activation and exhaustion (lower CD28 expression in CD8+ T cells (p adj = 0.014), whereas CD4+T cells showed higher PD1 expression (p adj = 0.037)) compared with the control group. Finally, post- COVID-19 presented an increased LPS-stimulated whole- blood IL-10 concentration (p adj <0.01). When exploring mitochondrial respiration and gene expression in PBMCs, we observed a higher LEAK state value (p adj <0.01), lower OXPHOS activity (complex I) (p adj = 0.04), and expression of the Rev-Erb-α clock mRNA after LPS stimulation in the post-COVID-19 patients than in the control (p adj <0.01). Mainly, PAL was associated with changes in IL-10, triglyceride, and leptin levels in the plasma of post-COVID-19 patients. PAL was also associated with modulation of the peripheral frequency of Treg cells and the expression of PD-1 in CD8+ T cells, although it abrogated the statistical effect in the analysis of TNF-α and IL-6 production by LPS- and PMA-stimulated PBMC of post-COVID-19 patients. Conclusion: Young adults after mild-to-moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection appeared to have lower physical activity levels, which can be associated with clinical and immunometabolic responses in a complex manner.

Relationship of Testosterone, LH, Estradiol, IGF-1, and SHBG with Physical Performance of Master Athletes.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), estradiol (ES), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in master sprint (MS) and master endurance (ME) athletes. Additionally, the possible associations between these hormones, body composition, and lipid profile with athletic performance (% of performance in relation to the current world record) were analyzed. Materials and Methods: The participants were all men: (i) 34 MS (51.0 ± 6.8 years); and (ii) 32 ME (51.7 ± 9.4 years). Student's t-tests for independent samples were performed to compare all variables between groups. Results: MS had a significantly higher (p = .008) average IGF-1 (154.78 ± 29.85 ng/mL) when compared to ME (129.92 ± 25.48 ng/mL). Performance was significantly correlated with IGF-1 (r = 0.424). The MS group had a moderately lower body fat than ME athletes (MS 12.54 ± 4.07 vs. ME 14.60 ± 4.12; p = .078; d = 0.503). Conclusions: Thus, strength/power training exercise/sport seems to be more beneficial for obtaining a higher IGF-1 compared to aerobic/distance exercise/sport. In addition, LH, T, ES, and SHBG were similar between the two groups of athletes and were comparable to the reference values of younger adults.

Exercise training-induced changes in immunometabolic markers in youth badminton athletes.

The aim of this study was to investigate the metabolic and inflammatory fluctuations in two seasonal phases of badminton training, and the ability of youth badminton athletes to respond to an inflammatory challenge given by acute exercise on these markers. Thirteen youth badminton athletes who participated in national and international competitions were recruited. Metabolic and cytokine profile were measured at rest and in response to a maximal exercise intermittent test, in the pre- and final phases of a badminton annual season. At rest, glucose (-7.58 mg/dL; p = 0.045) and HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c) (-26.87 mg/dL; p < 0.0001) decreased at final-season. The variation of HDL-c in response to a maximal exercise test increased at final-season in comparison to pre-season (+ 10.20 mg/dL p = 0.042). Similarly, delta changes of IL-10 (+ 3.41 pg/ml; p = 0.047) and IL-1Ra (+ 141.3 pg/ml; p = 0.031) were greater at final-season. In addition, a significantly greater variation of the anti-inflammatory IL-10/IL-17 ratio was observed at final-season (+ 0.37; p = 0.010). In conclusion, our results showed a major responsivity of IL-10 and IL-1Ra to a maximal exercise even at the end of an entire season. The major responsivity of these cytokines at this time point suggests a more effective acute inflammatory response in youth badminton athletes. Therefore, the results of this study may be applied by coaches, trainers and sport nutritionist for proper training management.

Feeding Pattern, Circadian Rhythm, and Immune Function: What do we know about?

Feeding pattern is related to health status or chronic diseases, and this depends on the individual's eating habits. Feeding organized with the right time to start and end during the day, promotes an internal biological rhythm, favoring molecular synchronization of the clock genes, which impose an effect on metabolism and immune cells, creating a physiological response related to a healthy profile. On the other hand, a feeding pattern disorganized, without the right time to start and end eating during the day, might lead to nonsynchronization of the clock genes, a disruption condition, which is related to chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes type 2. A strategy that should be adopted to favor molecular synchronization is time-restricted eating (TRE), which can organize the initial and end of the eating patterns during the day. Our review points out some cues that suggest TRE as an efficient strategy for healthy profile and can be a good intervention for the treatment of chronic diseases.

High-intensity intermittent exercise induces a potential anti-inflammatory response in healthy women across the menstrual cycle.

AIM: This observational study aimed to examine cytokine responses to high-intensity intermittent exercise (HIIE) in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. METHODS: Fourteen healthy women (24 ± 2 years; body mass index [BMI]: 22.8 ± 1.9 kg⋅m2; maximal oxygen consumption [V̇O2max]: 41.5 ± 4.1 mL⋅kg-1⋅min-1) with regular menstrual cycles were randomly assigned to 4 experimental sessions, 2 during the follicular and 2 during the luteal phase. V̇O2max and maximum aerobic velocity (MAV) were determined prior to the experimental sessions through a graded exercise test during both follicular and luteal phases. Seventy-two hours after having completed the graded exercise test, all participants performed a HIIE session (10 x 1-min sprints with 1 min of rest) at 90% of their MAV. Serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-17 were measured before (Pre), immediately after (Post) and 1 h after (1 h Post) the HIIE sessions. RESULTS: Pre-exercise concentrations of TNF-α and IL-10 were significantly higher in the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase (P < 0.01), with no differences seen on IL-6 and IL-17, demonstrating an altered inflammatory status in the luteal phase. There was a significant interaction for IL-10 concentration (P < 0.01) with reductions in both luteal (Pre vs Post, 95 %CI: 1.086 to 6.156; and Pre vs 1 h Post, 95 %CI: 1.720 to 9.013, P < 0.01) and follicular phase (Pre vs 1 h Post, 95 %CI: 0.502 to 7.842, P < 0.05). Despite no significant phase × time interaction for TNF-α concentration, its concentration at 1 h Post was significantly lower compared to Pre in the luteal phase analysis (Pre vs 1 h Post, 95 %CI: 0.71 to 14.06; P < 0.05). These results are in agreement with IL-10 responses, highlighting a reduction on the inflammatory status after exercise. CONCLUSION: Mostly during the luteal phase, high-intensity intermittent exercise modulates cytokine responses, thus impacting exercise recovery. In this scenario, high-intensity intermittent exercise emerges as a non-pharmacology strategy to regulate inflammatory responses on healthy women who were affected by an inflammatory state given their menstrual cycle.

Role of Body Mass and Physical Activity in Autonomic Function Modulation on Post-COVID-19 Condition: An Observational Subanalysis of Fit-COVID Study.

The harmful effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can reach the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and endothelial function. Therefore, the detrimental multiorgan effects of COVID-19 could be induced by deregulations in ANS that may persist after the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, investigating the differences in ANS response in overweight/obese, and physically inactive participants who had COVID-19 compared to those who did not have the disease is necessary. The aim of the study was to analyze the autonomic function of young adults after mild-to-moderate infection with SARS-CoV-2 and to assess whether body mass index (BMI) and levels of physical activity modulates autonomic function in participants with and without COVID-19. Patients previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 and healthy controls were recruited for this cross-sectional observational study. A general anamnesis was taken, and BMI and physical activity levels were assessed. The ANS was evaluated through heart rate variability. A total of 57 subjects were evaluated. Sympathetic nervous system activity in the post-COVID-19 group was increased (stress index; p = 0.0273). They also presented lower values of parasympathetic activity (p < 0.05). Overweight/obese subjects in the post-COVID-19 group presented significantly lower parasympathetic activity and reduced global variability compared to non-obese in control group (p < 0.05). Physically inactive subjects in the post-COVID-19 group presented significantly higher sympathetic activity than active subjects in the control group. Parasympathetic activity was significantly increased in physically active subjects in the control group compared to the physically inactive post-COVID-19 group (p < 0.05). COVID-19 promotes changes in the ANS of young adults, and these changes are modulated by overweight/obesity and physical activity levels.

COVID-19 Outcome Relates With Circulating BDNF, According to Patient Adiposity and Age.

Background and Aims: We evaluated adipose tissue-derived hormones, body composition, serum metabolic profile, levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the association of these parameters with the clinical outcome in patients with COVID-19. We sought to examine whether obesity, sex, and age influence the adipose tissue endocrine response to the disease. Methods: This prospective study investigated 145 hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Patients were categorized based on their body mass index (BMI), sex and age, and were also classified regarding their outcome after hospitalization as: (a) Non-ICU: patients hospitalized who did not receive intensive care; (b) ICU-survivor: patients admitted to the intensive care unit and discharged; (c) ICU-death: patients who died. Blood samples were collected by the hospital staff between the first and third day of hospitalization. Serum leptin, adiponectin and BDNF concentrations, triglycerides, total cholesterol and cholesterol fractions were performed following the manufacturer's guidelines. Results: We demonstrate that BDNF levels predict intensive care (IC) need (p < 0.01). This association was found to be stronger in patients >60y (p = 0.026). Neither leptin nor adiponectin concentration was associated with IC requirement or with patient's outcome, while the BDNF/adiponectin ratio was closely associated with worsened outcomes (p < 0.01). BDNF concentration was similar between sexes, however tended to be lower in male patients (p = 0.023). In older patients, BDNF concentration was lower than that of younger patients (p = 0.020). These age and sex-specific differences should be considered when employing these potential markers for prognosis assessment. While appetite and body composition regulating hormones secreted by the white adipose tissue are not reliable predictors of disease severity, the ratio BDNF/adiponectin was indicative of patient status. Conclusion: Thus, we propose that serum BDNF content and BDNF/adiponectin ratio may serve as tools predicting worsened prognosis in COVID-19, especially for male patients.

Improvement in the anti-inflammatory profile with lifelong physical exercise is related to clock genes expression in effector-memory CD4+ T cells in master athletes.

PURPOSE: Ageing is associated with alterations in the immune system as well as with alterations of the circadian rhythm. Immune cells show rhythmicity in execution of their tasks. Chronic inflammation (inflammaging), which is observed in the elderly, is mitigated by lifelong exercise. The aimed this study was to determine the acute effect of a maximal exercise test on clock genes, regulatory proteins and cytokine expression, and evaluate the effect of lifelong exercise on the expression of clock genes in subpopulations of effector-memory (EM) CD4+ and CD8+T cells and the association of these processes with the inflammatory profile. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the expression of clock genes in subpopulations of effector memory (EM) CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in master athletes and healthy controls and further associate them with systemic inflammatory responses to acute exercise. METHODS: The study population comprised national and international master athletes (n = 18) involved in three sports (athletics, swimming and judo). The control group (n = 8) comprised untrained healthy volunteers who had not participated in any regular and competitive physical exercise in the past 20 years. Anthropometric measurements and blood samples were taken before (Pre), 10 min after (Post) and 1 h after (1 h Post) a maximal cycle ergometer test for the determination of maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max). The subpopulations of EM CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were purified using fluorescenceactivated cell sorting. RNA extraction of clock genes (CLOCK, BMAL1, PER1, PER2, CRY1, CRY2, REV-ERBα, REV-ERBß, RORa, RORb and RORc) in EM CD4+ and EM CD8+ T cells as well as regulatory proteins (IL-4, IFN-γ, Tbx21, PD-1, Ki67, NF-kB, p53 and p21) in EM CD4+ T cells was performed. The serum concentration of cytokines (IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70 and IL-17A) was measured. RESULTS: The master athletes showed better physiological parameters than the untrained healthy controls (P < 0.05). The levels of cytokines increased in master athletes at Post compared with those at Pre. The IL-8 level was higher at 1 h Post, whereas the IL-10 and IL-12p70 levels returned to baseline. There was no change in IL-17A levels (P < 0.05). The clock genes were modulated differently in CD4+ T cells after an acute session of exercise in a training status-dependent manner. CONCLUSION: The synchronization of clock genes, immune function and ageing presents new dimensions with interesting challenges. Lifelong athletes showed modified expression patterns of clock genes and cytokine production associated with the physical fitness level. Moreover, the acute bout of exercise altered the clock machinery mainly in CD4+ T cells; however, the clock gene expressions induced by acute exercise were different between the master athletes and control group.

Immunometabolic responses according to physical fitness status and lifelong exercise during aging: New roads for exercise immunology.

Molecules such as cytokines, energetic substrates, and hormones found in the immune cell environment, especially lymphocytes and monocytes, are crucial for directing energy metabolism. In turn, changes in energy metabolism occur in a synchronized manner with the activation of certain signaling pathways, thereby this crosstalk is responsible for determining the functionality of immune cells. The immunometabolism field has grown over time and that is becoming increasingly promising in several populations; here we discuss the mechanisms involved in sedentary and physically active middle-aged individuals and master athletes. In this context, this review shows that the physical activity status and lifelong exercise seems to be good strategies for the promotion of metabolic and functional adaptations in T lymphocytes and monocytes, counteracting inflammatory environments caused by expanded adipose tissue and sedentary behavior, as well as delaying the immunosenescence caused by aging.

Taurine supplementation reduces myeloperoxidase and matrix-metalloproteinase-9 levels and improves the effects of exercise in cognition and physical fitness in older women.

Immunosenescence contributes to cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration, and those conditions could be attenuated by non-pharmacological anti-inflammatory strategies, such as exercise and supplementation with the amino acid taurine. Since taurine body content decreases with aging, we investigated the effects of supplementation (alone and combined with exercise) on oxidative stress, extracellular matrix degradation, white blood cells, neurotrophins, cognition and physical fitness of elderly women. Forty-eight women (83.58 ± 6.98 years) were enrolled into exercise training only (EO: n = 13), taurine supplementation (TS: n = 12), exercise training + taurine supplementation (ETTS: n = 11), and control group (CG: n = 12). All interventions lasted 14 weeks. Exercise was applied twice a week, and taurine was given once a day (1.5 g). Data collection occurred before and after interventions with the determination of myeloperoxidase (MPO), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF) levels, and white blood cell counts (WBC). Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) and physical fitness tests were also evaluated. Concentration of MPO and MMP-9 decreased after intervention in TS (p < 0.05). No effect of time or time × group was observed for WBC parameters; however, univariate analysis showed a significant decrease in lymphocytes for TS, while an increase in monocytes occurred in the CG (p < 0.05). MoCA scores decreased over time in the CG (p < 0.05). Improvements in physical fitness occurred in ETTS (better agility and aerobic capacity), mostly likely due to exercise and boosted by taurine supplementation. No changes in BDNF levels were observed (p > 0.05), while NGF concentration were undetectable in almost subjects. Exercise together with taurine supplementation appears to be a valuable strategy to enhance health-related outcomes in older persons.

Effects of short-term physical training on the interleukin-15 signalling pathway and glucose tolerance in aged rats.

PURPOSE: Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a myokine that has been proposed to modulate skeletal muscle and adipose tissue mass, as well as insulin sensitivity. However, the evidence suggesting a role for IL-15 in improving whole-body insulin sensitivity and decreasing adiposity comes mainly from studies using supraphysiological levels of this cytokine. This study examined the effect of a short-term exercise training protocol on the protein content of IL-15, it's signaling pathway, and glucose tolerance in aged rats. METHODS: Fourteen Wistar rats were divided into Young Sedentary (Young, n = 4); Old Sedentary (Old, n = 5); Old Exercise (Old.Exe, n = 5) groups. The animals from the exercised group were submitted to a short-term physical exercise protocol for five days. At the end of physical training and after 16 h of the last exercise session, the animals were euthanized, and tissue collection was done. RESULTS: Physical exercise decreased epididymal and mesenteric fat mass and promoted positive effects on glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Muscle IL-15 protein levels were not changed following the short-term physical exercise training with no alterations in the post-exercise IL-15-JAK/STAT signaling pathway. We found a tendency to increased HIF1α and a significant increase in its regulator, PHD2, in the skeletal muscle after exercise. CONCLUSION: The elderly rats submitted to short-term aerobic physical training did not present skeletal muscle alteration in the protein content of the IL-15 and IL-15-JAK/STAT signaling pathway. However, short-term aerobic physical training was able to modulate the expression of HIF1α and its regulator PHD2, suggesting an essential role of these proteins in improving post-exercise glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in elderly rats.

Upper respiratory symptoms (URS) and salivary responses across a season in youth soccer players: A useful and non-invasive approach associated to URS susceptibility and occurrence in young athletes.

This study examined the effect of a competitive season on salivary responses [cortisol (sC), testosterone (sT), Testosterone/Cortisol ratio (sT/C), Immunoglobulin A (sIgA), sIgA secretion rate (srIgA), alpha-amylase (sAA)] and upper respiratory symptoms (URS) occurrence in three teams of male soccer players (Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 yrs.). Training and competition volumes, salivary biomarkers and URS were determined monthly. No differences were found for monthly training volume between teams. Incidence of URS was higher for the U15 (44.9% of the total cases). Higher sT and srIgA were observed for the U19, lower sC were found for the U17 and sAA showed higher values for the U15 throughout the season. In the U15, significant difference (p = .023) was found for sIgA concentration with higher concentration values in January compared to December (-42.7%; p = .008) and the sT showed seasonal variation (p < .001) with the highest value in January significantly different from October (-40.2%; p = .035), November (-38.5%; p = 0.022) and December (-51.6%; p = .008). The U19 presented an increase in sC in March compared to February (-66.1%, p = .018), sT/C were higher in February compared to March (-58.1%; p = .022) and sAA increased in March compared to September (-20.5%; p = .037). Negative correlations, controlled for age group, were found between URS occurrence and srIgA (r = -0.170, p = .001), sAA (r = -0.179, p = .001) and sT (r = -0.107, p = .047). Monitoring salivary biomarkers provides information on mucosal immunity with impact in URS occurrence. Coaches could manipulate training loads to attenuate the physical stressors imposed on athletes, especially at demanding and stressful periods.

Short-term Resistance Training Increases APPL1 Content in the Liver and the Insulin Sensitivity of Mice Fed a Long-term High-fat Diet.

BACKGROUND: APPL1, an adapter protein, interact directly with adiponectin receptors mediating adiponectin signaling and acting as a critical regulator of the crosstalk between adiponectin and insulin signaling pathway. The inadequate level of physical activity, high-calorie intake, or both lead to adverse consequences on health, like insulin resistance. On the order hand, physical exercise acts positively in the insulin action. PURPOSE: Here, we investigated the effects of short-term resistance training (RT) on APPL1 content and adiponectin pathway in the liver of mice fed a long-term high-fat diet. METHODS: Swiss mice were distributed into 3 groups: Mice that fed a chow diet (CTR); Mice fed a high-fat diet for 16 months (HFD); and mice fed a high-fat diet for 16 months and submitted to a climbing ladder exercise (RT) for 7 days (HFD-EXE). RESULTS: The results show that short-term RT increases the APPL1 content but wasn't able to alter AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 content in the liver of HFD-EXE mice. However, this increase in the APPL1 content in response to RT was accompanied by improvement in the insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSION: In summary, our data suggested that short-term RT improves glycemic homeostasis and increases APPL1 in the hepatic tissue of mice treated with long-term high-fat diet.

Rho-kinase activity is upregulated in the skeletal muscle of aged exercised rats.

There is a gap in the knowledge regarding the regulation of glucose uptake in skeletal muscle during the development of insulin resistance in the elderly. Rho-Kinase (Rock) signaling has been demonstrated as a crucial mechanism related to glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. This kinase is involved in the insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) phosphorylation, leading to glucose uptake stimulation in the skeletal muscle; however, the mechanisms elucidating the role of Rock regulation in the context of advanced ages are still limited. In this study, we submitted old Fischer 344 rats to short-term treadmill physical exercise protocol (5 days) and evaluated the glucose tolerance and proteins involved with Rock/insulin signaling in the skeletal muscle. Compared to young rats, the old rats showed glucose intolerance, hyperinsulinemia, and decreased phosphorylation in the proteins related to the insulin signaling pathway in the skeletal muscle, without changes in body mass and adiposity. Otherwise, when these rats were submitted to physical exercise, it was found decreased fasting glucose, higher glucose tolerance, decreased insulinemia, and upregulation of Rock2/pIRS1/pAkt/pGSK3ß/GLUT4 pathway in the skeletal muscle. In summary, the aging process did not change Rock signaling, but the physical exercise was able to increase Rock2 content and insulin signaling pathway in the skeletal muscle. This finding suggests the benefic role of physical exercise to advanced ages, promoting insulin-sensitive effects with Rho-kinase contribution.

Lifelong exercise practice and immunosenescence: Master athletes cytokine response to acute exercise.

The study aimed to analyze the effects of aging and lifelong training on the main pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and the impact of acute exercise on the expression of these cytokines. Thirty-nine participants were allocated into 3 groups: young (31.8 ±â€¯3.00 yrs.), middle-aged (54.2 ±â€¯5.9 yrs.) and master athletes (53.1 ±â€¯8.8 yrs.) and performed a maximal incremental test on a cycle ergometer. Blood samples were obtained before (Pre), 10 min post-exercise (Post) and 1 h post-exercise (Post 1 h). Mean VO2max was similar for master athletes and youngers and higher compared to the middle-aged group. Resting values of the IL-1ra, IL-1ß, IL-4, and IL-8 were higher in master athletes compared to the young and middle-aged groups (P < 0.01), while the highest values of IL-10 and IL-17 were observed for the youngers (29.49 ±â€¯18.00 pg/mL and 66.24 ±â€¯23.23 pg/mL, respectively) with the middle-aged group showing the lowest values (2.13 ±â€¯1.40 pg/mL). Acute exercise effects (Post) were observed for IL-1ß in the master athletes group, IL-6 in the young group and IL-4 for both groups (P < 0.05). No Post effects were observed for the middle-age group for all cytokines. The TNF-α/IL-10 ratio was higher in all moments for the middle-aged (P < 0.05). In conclusion, lifelong training helps to maintain the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, together with IL-10 levels close to those found in young adults.

Acute physical exercise increases leptin-induced hypothalamic extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 phosphorylation and thermogenesis of obese mice.

The obesity is a result of energy imbalance and the increase in thermogenesis seems an interesting alternative for the treatment of this disease. The mechanism of energy expenditure through thermogenesis is tightly articulated in the hypothalamus by leptin. The hypothalamic extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2) is a key mediator of the thermoregulatory effect of leptin and mediates the sympathetic signal to the brown adipose tissue (BAT). In this context, physical exercise is one of the main interventions for the treatment of obesity. Thus, this study aimed to verify the effects of acute physical exercise on leptin-induced hypothalamic ERK1/2 phosphorylation and thermogenesis in obese mice. Here we showed that acute physical exercise reduced the fasting glucose of obese mice and increased leptin-induced hypothalamic p-ERK1/2 and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) content in BAT ( P < 0.05). These molecular changes are accompanied by an increased oxygen uptake (VO 2 ) and heat production in obese exercised mice ( P < 0.05). The increased energy expenditure in the obese exercised animals occurred independently of changes in spontaneous activity. Thus, this is the first study demonstrating that acute physical exercise can increase leptin-induced hypothalamic ERK1/2 phosphorylation and energy expenditure of obese mice.

Immune-endocrine responses and physical performance of master athletes during the sports season.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of a training season (approximately 7 months) on physiological and salivary immune-endocrine markers in master athletes. Nine male master athletes were evaluated at the beginning of the season (M1) and a week after the main official competition at the end of the sports season (M2). The controlled variables included Maximal oxygen consumption, anthropometric, physiological, and salivary immune-endocrine markers. Master athletes presented a reduced percentage of fat mass and increased lean body mass at the end of the season. VO2max values were similar at M1 and M2, while the maximal heart rate and lactate were lower at M2. No differences were observed in Immunoglobulin A and cortisol levels between moments, whereas testosterone levels and the testosterone/cortisol ratio were significantly lower at the end of the season. The results suggest that maintaining regular training throughout life has positive effects on body composition and improves physiological fitness. However, care should be taken to avoid fatigue as indicated by lower testosterone levels at the end of the season.

The reversal effect of physical exercise on aging-related increases in APPL2 content in skeletal muscle.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aging on intracellular adiponectin signaling and the possible therapeutic effect of physical exercise. MAIN METHODS: Fischer 344 rats were distributed in the following groups: Young (3 months old); Sedentary Old (Old, 27 months old); and Old Exercised (Old-Exe, 27 months old), which were subjected to a short-term exercise training protocol. KEY FINDINGS: The results showed that the old rats presented glucose intolerance without increased adiposity. However, short-term exercise training reversed this disorder, which was associated with a decrease in the pleckstrin homology domain, phosphotyrosine-binding domain, and leucine zipper motif (APPL) isoform 2 (APPL2) content. The APPL isoform 1 (APPL1) and TRB3 (Tribbles homolog 3) contents were not altered. Akt phosphorylation was only increased in the old exercised rats. There was a reduction in the content of adiponectin receptor 1 in the old rats. SIGNIFICANCE: The short-term exercise training protocol was able to decrease APPL2 content in the skeletal muscle, which was accompanied by an improvement in the glucose tolerance of the old Fischer 344 rats. These findings provide new evidence supporting the role of physical exercise as a non-pharmacological therapeutic intervention to attenuate age-related deficits.

Daily hematologic assessment during a 230-km multistage ultramarathon / Avaliação hematológica diária durante uma ultramaratona de múltiplos estágios de 230 km / Evaluación hematológica diaria durante una ultramaratón de múltiples etapas de 230 km

ABSTRACT Introduction: The popularity of ultra-endurance events is increasing worldwide. However, information about hematological parameters during repeated bouts of long-duration running, such as stages during a multi-stage ultramarathon (MSUM) is scarce. Objective: The purpose of the study was to monitor daily hematologic assessment in a 230-km multistage ultramarathon (MSUM) in hot environmental conditions. Methods: Eleven male and three female (n = 14) ultra-endurance runners entered this MSUM, which was conducted over five stages, covering a total distance of 230 km in hot ambient conditions. Peripheral blood samples were collected before and after each stage to determine leukocyte and erythrocytes parameters. Results: Multilevel modelling considering all measurement points showed an increase for whole blood leukocyte and granulocyte counts at five stages of the MSUM and for monocytes until Stage 3 of the race. For erythrocyte parameters, decreases across stages were observed in hemoglobin concentration and hematocrit responses when computing/considering all measurement points. Conclusions: The results indicate that MSUM in a hot environment leads to a greater impact on leukocyte population responses and platelet variation in the initial stages of the race. We suggest that athletes may have a decrease in immune function in the early stages of the MSUM, probably with some transient risk of infectious. Nevertheless, a physiological adaptation to physical exertion and heat mitigates these changes in the subsequent stages of MSUM. Level of Evidence III; Case-control study.

RESUMO Introdução: A popularidade dos eventos de ultra-resistência está aumentando em todo o mundo. Entretanto, faltam informações sobre os parâmetros hematológicos durante episódios repetidos de corridas de longa duração, como, por exemplo, os estágios durante uma ultramaratona de múltiplos estágios (MSUM). Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi monitorar a avaliação hematológica diária em uma ultramaratona de múltiplos estágios (MSUM) de 230 km sob condições climáticas quentes. Métodos: Onze corredores e três corredoras de -ultra-resistência (n = 14) participaram dessa MSUM, em cinco estágios, totalizando uma distância de 230 km sob condições climáticas quentes. As amostras de sangue periférico foram coletadas antes e após cada estágio para determinação dos parâmetros de leucócitos e eritrócitos. Resultados: O modelo multinível considerando todos os pontos de medição apresentou um aumento na contagem de leucócitos e granulócitos do sangue total nos cinco estágios da MSUM e para os monócitos até o estágio três da competição. Para os parâmetros dos eritrócitos, foram observadas reduções através dos estágios na concentração de hemoglobina e nas respostas do hematócrito ao se contabilizar/considerar todos os pontos de medição. Conclusões: Os resultados indicam que a MSUM em condições climáticas quentes exerce um maior impacto nas respostas da população de leucócitos e na variação plaquetária nos estágios iniciais da competição. Sugerimos que os atletas podem ter uma diminuição na função imune nos estágios iniciais da MSUM, provavelmente, com algum risco transitório de infecção. No entanto, uma adaptação fisiológica para o esforço físico e calor minimiza essas alterações nos estágios seguintes da MSUM. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo caso-controle.

RESUMEN Introducción: La popularidad de los eventos de ultra resistencia está aumentando en todo el mundo. Entretanto, faltan informaciones sobre los parámetros hematológicos durante episodios repetidos de carreras de larga duración, como por ejemplo, las etapas de una ultramaratón de múltiples etapas (MSUM). Objetivo: El objetivo del estudio fue monitorizar la evaluación hematológica diaria en una ultramaratón de múltiples etapas (MSUM) de 230 km bajo condiciones climáticas cálidas. Métodos: Once corredores y tres corredoras de ultra resistencia (n = 14) participaron en esa MSUM, en cinco etapas, totalizando una distancia de 230 km bajo condiciones climáticas cálidas. Las muestras de sangre periférica fueron colectadas antes y después de cada etapa para determinación de los parámetros de leucocitos y eritrocitos. Resultados: El modelo multinivel considerando todos los puntos de medición presentó un aumento en el conteo de leucocitos y granulocitos de la sangre total en las cinco etapas de la MSUM y para los monocitos hasta la etapa 3 de la competencia. Para los parámetros de eritrocitos, fueron observadas reducciones a través de las etapas en la concentración de hemoglobina y en las respuestas de hematocrito al contabilizar/considerar todos los puntos de medición. Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que la MSUM en condiciones climáticas cálidas ejerce un mayor impacto en las respuestas de la población de leucocitos y en la variación plaquetaria en las etapas iniciales de la competencia. Sugerimos que los atletas pueden tener una disminución en la función inmune en las etapas iniciales de la MSUM probablemente con algún riesgo transitorio de infección. Sin embargo, una adaptación fisiológica para el esfuerzo físico y el calor, minimiza esas alteraciones en las etapas siguientes de la MSUM. Nivel de Evidencia III; Estudio de caso-control.

Exercise and taurine in inflammation, cognition, and peripheral markers of blood-brain barrier integrity in older women.

Immunosenescence contribute to increase the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, leading cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration. Thus, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of exercise and taurine supplementation on peripheral markers of BBB, inflammation, and cognition of elderly women. Forty-eight elderly women (age, 83.58 ± 6.9 years) participated in the study, and were allocated into combined exercise training (CET: n = 13), taurine supplementation (TAU: n = 12), exercise training associated with taurine (CET+TAU: n = 11), or control (CG: n = 12) groups. Exercise was applied twice a week (multi-modal exercise). Taurine ingestion was 1.5 g., once a day. Participants were evaluated before and after 14-weeks of intervention. Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and serum concentration of S100ß and neuron specific enolase (NSE) were determined. The mini mental state examination (MMSE) was also applied. Concentrations of S100ß were maintained in all intervention groups, while a subtle increase in the CG was found. NSE levels increased only in TAU group (p < 0.05). CET reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1ß/IL-1ra, IL-6/IL10, and TNF-α/IL-10 ratios (p < 0.05). TAU decreased the IL-1ß/IL-1ra ratio (p < 0.05). MMSE score increased only in the CET+TAU group (p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that there was a trend for changes in IL-1ß and the Charlson Comorbidity Index to be independently associated with changes in S100ß. Exercise and taurine decreased inflammation, and maintained the BBB integrity in elderly women. Exercise emerged as an important tool to improve brain health even when started at advanced ages.