Exercise induces tissue-specific adaptations to enhance cardiometabolic health

Aerobic Capacity Beyond Cardiorespiratory Fitness Linking Mitochondrial Function, Disease Resilience and Healthy Aging

Aerobic capacity is conventionally equated with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), but its physiological essence extends far beyond cardiopulmonary performance. Aerobic capacity is an integrative physiological indicator reflecting the entire process from oxygen uptake and transport to mitochondrial energy conversion, with mitochondrial function constituting its molecular core. Emerging evidence reveals robust associations between diminished aerobic capacity and increased risks of non-communicable chronic diseases and age-related functional decline. However, its potential as a valuable tool for early disease detection and intervention remains undervalued in clinical practice. By synthesizing recent clinical and experimental studies, we highlight the crucial role of aerobic capacity, particularly its mechanistic links to impaired mitochondrial function, which drives disease progression through impaired energy metabolism and chronic inflammation. Furthermore, exercise interventions designed to enhance aerobic capacity have shown promise in improving mitochondrial efficiency, promoting cardiometabolic adaptation, and boosting overall health, thus offering an effective strategy for chronic disease prevention. We advocate for inclusion of aerobic capacity assessments in routine health evaluations and emphasize the need to integrate aerobic capacity optimization into public health frameworks to advance preventive strategies against chronic diseases and promote healthy aging.

Skeletal Muscle as a Mediator of Interorgan Crosstalk During Exercise: Implications for Aging and Obesity

Physical exercise is critical for preventing and managing chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sarcopenia. Regular physical activity significantly reduces cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Exercise also enhances metabolic health by promoting muscle growth, mitochondrial biogenesis, and improved nutrient storage while preventing age-related muscle dysfunction. Key metabolic benefits include increased glucose uptake, enhanced fat oxidation, and the release of exercise-induced molecules called myokines, which mediate interorgan communication and improve overall metabolic function. These myokines and other exercise-induced signaling molecules hold promise as therapeutic targets for aging and obesity-related conditions.

Fiber Type-Specific Adaptations to Exercise Training in Human Skeletal Muscle: Lessons From Proteome Analyses and Future Directions

Skeletal muscle is a key determinant of sports performance. It is a highly specialized, yet complex and heterogeneous tissue, comprising multiple cell types. Muscle fibers are the main functional cell type responsible for converting energy into mechanical work. They exhibit a remarkable ability to adapt in response to stressors, such as exercise training. But while it is recognized that human skeletal muscle fibers have distinct contractile and metabolic features, classified as slow/oxidative (type 1) or fast/glycolytic (type 2a/x), less attention has been directed to the adaptability of the different fiber types. Methodological advancements in mass spectrometry-based proteomics allow researchers to quantify thousands of proteins with only a small amount of muscle tissue-even in a single muscle fiber. By exploiting this technology, studies are emerging highlighting that muscle fiber subpopulations adapt differently to exercise training. This review provides a contemporary perspective on the fiber type-specific adaptability to exercise training in humans. A key aim of our review is to facilitate further advancements within exercise physiology by harnessing mass spectrometry proteomics.

Impact of 24-week concurrent training on bone parameters and plasma levels of osteoglycin and sclerostin in young, sedentary adults: secondary analyses from the ACTIBATE randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of 24-week moderate (MOD-EX) and vigorous-intensity concurrent training (VIG-EX) on bone parameters and plasma levels of osteoglycin and sclerostin and their interplay with body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors in young, sedentary men and women.

DESIGN

Secondary study from the ACTIBATE randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02365129).

METHODS

This study was performed at the Sport and Health University Research Institute and the Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital of the University of Granada. Bone parameters were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and osteoglycin and sclerostin levels, by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

145 young sedentary adults were assigned to a control (CON, n = 54), a MOD-EX (n = 48), or a VIG-EX (n = 43). 106 participants were included in the per-protocol analyses (CON, n = 42; MOD-EX, n = 33; and VIG-EX, n = 31). After 24 weeks of concurrent training, we observed no differences in changes in bone parameters (all P time × group ≥ .300), osteoglycin (P time × group = .250), and sclerostin levels (P time × group = .489). Moreover, we found no correlations between osteoglycin and sclerostin levels with body composition (all P ≥ .639) and cardiometabolic risk factors (all P ≥ .119).

CONCLUSION

24 weeks of concurrent training did not alter bone parameters, and plasma levels of osteoglycin and sclerostin in young, sedentary adults. Moreover, osteoglycin and sclerostin are not related with bone parameters and cardiometabolic risk factors in this population. These findings suggest that longer concurrent training interventions may be needed to enhance bone parameters in young, sedentary adults.

The Effects of Multicomponent Training on Clinical, Functional, and Psychological Outcomes in Cardiovascular Disease: A Narrative Review

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death globally. In recent years, interest in multicomponent interventions has grown as a response to the multifactorial complexity of CVDs. However, the literature still shows little systematic investigation into the effectiveness of multicomponent training (MCT) in the field of CVDs, accompanied by terminological confusion. This study aims to summarize and critically appraise the recent literature through a narrative review. A narrative review was conducted, synthesizing evidence from studies published between 2010 and January 2025. The databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using predefined search terms related to CVDs and MCT, and medical subject headings (MeSHs) and Boolean syntax. Two team authors independently extracted relevant information from the included studies. MCT significantly improved hemodynamic parameters in CVD patients, with reductions in systolic, diastolic, mean blood pressure, and heart rate. Physical fitness measures showed consistent enhancements whereas anthropometric improvements often corresponded with blood pressure reductions. Psychological outcomes varied across studies, with intervention duration emerging as a key factor in effectiveness. MCT interventions could lead to improvements in clinical outcomes, risk factor reduction, and patient adherence. Although findings on psychological parameters remain inconsistent, the overall evidence supports their integration into both clinical and community settings.

The combined effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and exercise training on body composition and cardiometabolic health in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the effects of combining omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) supplementation with exercise training, as compared to exercise training alone, on body composition measures including body weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass, body fat percentage, and lean body mass. Additionally, we determined the effects on cardiometabolic health outcomes including lipid profiles, blood pressure, glycemic markers, and inflammatory markers.

METHOD

Three primary electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched from inception to April 5th, 2023 to identify original articles comparing n-3 PUFA supplementation plus exercise training versus exercise training alone, that investigated at least one of the following outcomes: fat mass, body fat percentage, lean body mass, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures, fasting glucose and insulin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Standardized mean differences (SMD) or weighted mean differences (WMD), and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models.

RESULTS

A total of 21 studies involving 673 participants with BMIs ranging from 24 to 37 kg.m2 and ages ranging from 30 to 70 years were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, the results indicated that as compared with exercise training alone, adding omega-3 supplementation to exercise training decreased fat mass [WMD: -1.05 kg (95 % CI: -1.88 to -0.22), p = 0.01], TG [WMD: -0.10 mmol/L (95 % CI: -0.19 to -0.02)], SBP [WMD: -4.09 mmHg (95 % CI: -7.79 to -2.16), p = 0.03], DBP [WMD: -4.26 mmHg (95 % CI: -6.46 to -2.07), p = 0.001], and TNF-α [SMD: -0.35 (95 % CI: -0.70 to -0.00), p = 0.04], and increased LDL [WMD: 0.14 mmol/L (95 % CI: 0.02 to 0.26), p = 0.01] and lower-body muscular strength [SMD: 0.42 (95 % CI: 0.01 to 0.84), p = 0.04]. However, omega-3 supplementation with exercise training had no additional effects compared with training alone, for other body composition or cardiometabolic outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analyses suggestes that adding omega-3 supplementation to exercise training may augment some effects of exercise training on body composition and cardiometabolic health in adults, although such effects appear to be modest.

Acute treadmill exercise induces mitochondrial unfolded protein response in skeletal muscle of male rats

Mitochondria are often referred to as the energy centers of the cell and are recognized as key players in signal transduction, sensing, and responding to internal and external stimuli. Under stress conditions, the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), a conserved mitochondrial quality control mechanism, is activated to maintain mitochondrial and cellular homeostasis. As a physiological stimulus, exercise-induced mitochondrial perturbations trigger UPRmt, coordinating mitochondria-to-nucleus communication and initiating a transcriptional program to restore mitochondrial function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the UPRmt signaling response to acute exercise in skeletal muscle. Male rats were subjected to acute treadmill exercise at 25 m/min for 60 min on a 0 % grade. Plantaris muscles were collected from both sedentary and exercise groups at various times: immediately (0), and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h post-exercise. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was assessed using hydrogen peroxide assay and dihydroethidium staining. Additionally, the mRNA and protein expression of UPRmt markers were measured using ELISA and real-time PCR. Mitochondrial activity was assessed using succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and cytochrome c oxidase (COX) staining. Our results demonstrated that acute exercise increased ROS production and upregulated UPRmt markers at both gene and protein levels. Moreover, skeletal muscle exhibited an increase in mitochondrial activity in response to exercise, as indicated by SDH and COX staining. These findings suggest that acute treadmill exercise is sufficient to induce ROS production, activate UPRmt signaling, and enhance mitochondrial activity in skeletal muscle, expanding our understanding of mitochondrial adaptations to exercise.

Cardiac Rehabilitation in TAVI Patients: Safety and Benefits: A Narrative Review

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has redefined the management of severe aortic stenosis, particularly in surgical high-risk patients. As the number of TAVI procedures increases, there is a growing need for effective post-procedural care. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has emerged as a critical component of treatment in these patients. The most recent update of the European recommendations highlights the importance of including post-TAVI patients in CR programs. However, the benefits of CR in this particular patient group still need to be fully understood. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize the safety and benefits of post-TAVI CR by evaluating its impact on functional capacity, frailty, muscular strength, mental health, quality of life, and long-term survival. While emerging evidence supports its safety and effectiveness in the aforementioned outcomes, gaps remain regarding the optimal rehabilitation protocols, including the timing, duration, and intensity of CR as well as its long-term cardiovascular benefits. Further research is needed to develop personalized approaches for different patient groups. This article highlights the current knowledge, identifies critical gaps, and underlines the need for tailored rehabilitation strategies to improve post-TAVI recovery and patient outcomes.

Charting the Molecular Terrain of Exercise: Energetics, Exerkines, and the Future of Multiomic Mapping

Physical activity plays a fundamental role in human health and disease. Exercise has been shown to improve a wide variety of disease states, and the scientific community is committed to understanding the precise molecular mechanisms that underlie the exquisite benefits. This review provides an overview of molecular responses to acute exercise and chronic training, particularly energy mobilization and generation, structural adaptation, inflammation, and immune regulation. Furthermore, it offers a detailed discussion of known molecular signals and systemic regulators activated during various forms of exercise and their role in orchestrating health benefits. Critically, the increasing use of multiomic technologies is explored with an emphasis on how multiomic and multitissue studies contribute to a more profound understanding of exercise biology. These data inform anticipated future advancement in the field and highlight the prospect of integrating exercise with pharmacology for personalized disease prevention and treatment.

Sex differences in skeletal muscle metabolism in exercise and type 2 diabetes mellitus

This Review focuses on currently available literature describing sex differences in skeletal muscle metabolism in humans, as well as highlighting current research gaps within the field. These discussions serve as a call for action to address the current lack of sufficient sex-balanced studies in skeletal muscle research, and the resulting limitations in understanding sex-specific physiological and pathophysiological responses. Although the participation of women in studies has increased, parity between the sexes remains elusive, affecting the validity of conclusions drawn from studies with limited numbers of participants. Changes in skeletal muscle metabolism contribute to the development of metabolic disease (such as type 2 diabetes mellitus), and maintenance of skeletal muscle mass is a key component for health and the ability to maintain an independent life during ageing. Exercise is an important factor in maintaining skeletal muscle health and insulin sensitivity, and offers promise for both prevention and treatment of metabolic disease. With the increased realization of the promise of precision medicine comes the need to increase patient stratification and improve the understanding of responses in different populations. In this context, a better understanding of sex-dependent differences in skeletal muscle metabolism is essential.

Impact of an intervention for osteoarthritis based on exercise and education on metabolic health: a register-based study using the SOAD cohort

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effects of a 6-week osteoarthritis (OA) exercise and education intervention on metabolic health markers, including blood pressure (BP), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), cholesterol levels and weight in individuals with both OA and diabetes.

METHODS

Data originated from the Swedish Osteoarthritis and Diabetes cohort, which is composed of the Swedish Osteoarthritis Register (SOAR) and National Diabetes Register. We included individuals diagnosed with OA and diabetes who underwent the intervention between January 2008 and December 2019, matched with controls with diabetes who did not based on birth year, sex, OA site (hip/knee) and OA diagnosis year. Outcomes included BP, HbA1c, HDL, total cholesterol levels and weight measured up to 3 years before and after SOAR enrolment. Statistical analyses used two-way fixed-effect models.

RESULTS

The study included 4571 individuals with OA and diabetes (mean age: 69.5, SD: 7.8; women: 52.7%; knee OA: 71.2%) and 7925 controls. The intervention group showed a systolic BP decrease of approximately 1.0 mm Hg at 6 and 12 months compared with the control group. HDL levels increased by about 0.02 mmol/L at 12, 18 and 24 months. Weight decreased by approximately 0.5 kg at 6, 18 and 30 months. HbA1c levels increased by approximately 0.5 mmol/mol at 6 months. No essential differences were found in the total cholesterol levels.

CONCLUSION

An OA exercise and education intervention designed following OA clinical practice guidelines led to small and unlikely clinically relevant improvements in metabolic health markers in individuals with OA and diabetes.

Exercise boost after surgery improves survival in model of metastatic breast cancer

Introduction

Despite advances in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment of the primary tumor, metastatic breast cancer tumors remain largely incurable, and their growth is responsible for the majority of breast cancer-related deaths. There is therefore a critical need to identify ways to reduce metastatic tumor burden and increase breast cancer patient survival. While surgery and pharmacological treatments are the cornerstones of breast cancer intervention, epidemiological data suggests that physical activity can lower the risk of breast cancer development, improve adjuvant treatment tolerance, reduce the risk of disease recurrence and lower breast cancer-related death.

Methods

In this preclinical study, we set out to examine the impact of exercise on metastatic development in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), using different 4T1 metastasis models, voluntary wheel running and surgical interventions. Tumors were analyzed for hypoxia and immune cell infiltration.

Results

Voluntary wheel running was observed to significantly increase metastasis-free survival, doubling the median survival time. However, these improvements were only observed when a boost in physical exercise occurred following surgery. To investigate this, we performed mock surgeries and confirmed surgical stress was needed to enable the positive effects of the boost in exercise on reducing metastatic tumor burden in mice with either spontaneous metastasis or experimentally-induced metastasis. These changes occurred in the absence of alterations in tumor growth, hypoxia and immune cell infiltration.

Discussion

Taken together, our results suggest that having a boost of physical activity following surgery may be beneficial to delay breast cancer metastatic development.

The Human Energy Balance: Uncovering the Hidden Variables of Obesity

Obesity has emerged as a global epidemic, creating an increased burden of weight-related diseases and straining healthcare systems worldwide. While the fundamental principle of energy balance-caloric intake versus expenditure-remains central to weight regulation, real-world outcomes often deviate from simplistic predictions due to a multitude of physiological and environmental factors. Genetic predispositions, variations in basal metabolic rates, adaptive thermogenesis, physical activity, and nutrient losses via fecal and urinary excretion contribute to interindividual differences in energy homeostasis. Additionally, factors such as meal timing, macronutrient composition, gut microbiota dynamics, and diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) further modulate energy utilization and metabolic efficiency. This Perspective explores key physiological determinants of the energy balance, while also highlighting the clinical significance of thrifty versus spendthrifty metabolic phenotypes. Key strategies for individualized weight management include precision calorimetry, circadian-aligned meal timing, the use of protein- and whole food diets to enhance DIT, and increases in non-exercise activity, as well as mild cold exposure and the use of thermogenic agents (e.g., capsaicin-like compounds) to stimulate brown adipose tissue activity. A comprehensive, personalized approach to obesity management that moves beyond restrictive caloric models is essential to achieving sustainable weight control and improving long-term metabolic health. Integrating these multifactorial insights into clinical practice will enhance obesity treatment strategies, fostering more effective and enduring interventions.

Physiological mechanisms of neuromuscular impairment in diabetes-related complications: Can physical exercise help prevent it?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder that progressively induces complications, compromising daily independence. Among these, diabetic neuropathy is particularly prevalent and contributes to substantial neuromuscular impairments in both types 1 and 2 diabetes. This condition leads to structural damage affecting both the central and peripheral nervous systems, resulting in a significant decline in sensorimotor functions. Alongside neuropathy, diabetic myopathy also contributes to muscle impairment and reduced motor performance, intensifying the neuromuscular decline. Diabetic neuropathy typically implicates neurogenic muscle atrophy, motoneuron loss and clustering of muscle fibres as a result of aberrant denervation-reinervation processes. These complications are associated with compromised neuromuscular junctions, where alterations occur in pre-synaptic vesicles, mitochondrial content and post-synaptic signalling. Neural damage is intensified by chronic hyperglycaemia and oxidative stress, exacerbating vascular dysfunction and reducing oxygen delivery. These complications imply a severe decline in neuromuscular performance, evidenced by reductions in maximal force and power output, rate of force development and muscle endurance. Furthermore, diabetes-related complications are compounded by age-related degenerative changes in long-term patients. Aerobic and resistance training offer promising approaches for managing blood glucose levels and neuromuscular function. Aerobic exercise promotes mitochondrial biogenesis and angiogenesis, supporting metabolic and cardiovascular health. Resistance training primarily enhances neural plasticity, muscle strength and hypertrophy, which are crucial factors for mitigating sarcopenia and preserving functional independence. This topical review examines current evidence on the physiological mechanisms underlying diabetic neuropathy and the potential impact of physical activity in counteracting this decline.

Temporal dynamics of the interstitial fluid proteome in human skeletal muscle following exhaustive exercise

The skeletal muscle interstitial space is the extracellular region around myofibers and mediates cross-talk between resident cell types. We applied a proteomic workflow to characterize the human skeletal muscle interstitial fluid proteome at rest and in response to exercise. Following exhaustive exercise, markers of skeletal muscle damage accumulate in the interstitial space followed by the appearance of immune cell-derived proteins. Among the proteins up-regulated after exercise, we identified cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) as a bioactive molecule regulating muscle fiber development. Treatment with the bioactive peptide derivative of CAMP (LL-37) resulted in the growth of larger C2C12 skeletal muscle myotubes. Phosphoproteomics revealed that LL-37 activated pathways central to muscle growth and proliferation, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, AKT serine/threonine kinase 1, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and mammalian target of rapamycin. Our findings provide a proof of concept that the interstitial fluid proteome is quantifiable via microdialysis sampling in vivo. These data highlight the importance of cellular communication in the adaptive response to exercise.

Focus on Exercise Physiology and Sports Performance

Exercise physiology is a crucial scientific discipline that explores the complex manner in which physical activity influences the physiological responses and adaptations of the human body [...].

Aerobic Exercise and Metformin: A Dual Approach to Enhancing Glycemic Maintenance in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a widespread metabolic condition characterized by elevated glucose levels followed by deficiency in insulin secretion. Metformin notably decreased the incidence of T2DM by 31% and it exerts its effects through various signaling pathways. Databases searched included PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus from 2000 to 2024. One of the primary mechanisms involves AMPK activation which causes reduced lipogenesis and improved fatty acid oxidation in the liver and muscles. Key molecules affected by metformin include acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c), both involved in lipid synthesis regulation. Aerobic exercise has also emerged as a crucial component in managing T2DM due to its improved effects on hyperglycemia and insulin sensitivity. Key signaling pathways affected in T2DM include the PI3K/Akt, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and MAPK/ERK pathways which play essential roles in regulating glucose homeostasis, glycogenesis, and insulin secretion. When comparing the mechanisms and efficacy of aerobic exercise and metformin, it becomes evident that aerobic exercise primarily enhances physical fitness and metabolic function, while metformin exerts its effects through biochemical pathways involving AMPK activation. Aerobic exercise and metformin are effective for managing T2DM, though they operate through different mechanisms. Regular aerobic exercise improves insulin sensitivity, enhances cardiovascular health, and promotes weight loss, while metformin primarily decreases hepatic gluconeogenesis and enhances insulin secretion. Understanding the intricate signaling pathways affected by metformin and aerobic exercise provides valuable insights into its mechanisms of action and clinical implications for treating diabetic patients effectively.

Quantification of nutrient fluxes during acute exercise in mice

Despite the known metabolic benefits of exercise, an integrated metabolic understanding of exercise is lacking. Here, we use in vivo steady-state isotope-labeled infusions to quantify fuel flux and oxidation during exercise in fasted, fed, and exhausted female mice, revealing several novel findings. Exercise strongly promoted glucose fluxes from liver glycogen, lactate, and glycerol, distinct from humans. Several organs spared glucose, a process that broke down in exhausted mice despite concomitant hypoglycemia. Proteolysis increased markedly, also divergent from humans. Fatty acid oxidation dominated during fasted exercise. Ketone production and oxidation rose rapidly, seemingly driven by a hepatic bottleneck caused by gluconeogenesis-induced cataplerotic stress. Altered fuel consumption was observed in organs not directly involved in muscle contraction, including the pancreas and brown fat. Several futile cycles surprisingly persisted during exercise, despite their energy cost. In sum, we provide a comprehensive, integrated, holistic, and quantitative accounting of metabolism during exercise in an intact organism.

Emerging Mechanisms of Physical Exercise Benefits in Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Cancer Immunotherapy

The primary factors that can be modified in one's lifestyle are the most influential determinants and significant preventable causes of various types of cancer. Exercise has demonstrated numerous advantages in preventing cancer and aiding in its treatment. However, the precise mechanisms behind these effects are still not fully understood. To contribute to our comprehension of exercise's impact on cancer immunotherapy and provide recommendations for future research in exercise oncology, we will examine the roles and underlying mechanisms of exercise on immune cells. In addition to reducing the likelihood of developing cancer, exercise can also improve the effectiveness of certain approved anticancer treatments, such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. Exercise is a pivotal modulator of the immune response, and thus, it can play an emerging important role in new immunotherapies. The mechanisms responsible for these effects involve the regulation of intra-tumoral angiogenesis, myokines, adipokines, their associated pathways, cancer metabolism, and anticancer immunity. Our review assesses the potential of physical exercise as an adjuvant/neoadjuvant tool, reducing the burden of cancer relapse, and analyzes emerging molecular mechanisms predicting favorable adjuvanticity effects.

Associations between adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines with continuous metabolic syndrome score among Chinese children and adolescents

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to evaluate the associations between adherence to 24-Hour Movement Guidelines (24-HMG) with continuous metabolic syndrome score (cMetS) among Chinese children.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study among 4604 children aged 6-17 years from Shenzhen, China. The 24-HMG was constructed using the self-report information on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), screen time (ST), and sleep duration. The cMetS was calculated based on waist circumference, homoeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, mean arterial blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride. Multivariate linear regression models were used to assess the associations between adherence to recommendations of 24-HMG and cMetS.

RESULTS

Among the participants, 563 (12.23%) students adhered to 3 recommendations of the 24-HMG. We found that adhering to more recommendations was negatively associated with cMetS (P for trend: <0.001). For specific combinations, meeting the ST + MVPA recommendations was negatively associated with cMetS (coefficients [β]: -0.686; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.148, -0.223). Individuals who adhered to all recommendations had a lower cMetS (β: -0.693; 95% CI: -1.147, -0.238) than those who met none of the recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that adherence to more recommendations of the 24-HMG was associated with lower levels of cMetS in Chinese children and adolescents.

Exercise Training Reduces Inflammation and Fibrosis and Preserves Myocardial Function and Perfusion in a Model of Chronic Chagas Cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC) is caused by an inflammatory process induced by Trypanosoma cruzi, which leads to myocarditis with reactive and reparative fibrosis. CCC progresses with myocardial perfusion abnormalities and histopathological events that affect cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the effects of aerobic physical training (APT) on myocardial perfusion and on morphological and functional impairments related with inflammation and fibrosis in Syrian hamsters with CCC. As a secondary objective, we analyzed the cross-sectional areas of the skeletal muscle.

METHODS

Hamsters with CCC and their respective controls were divided into four groups: CCC sedentary, CCC-APT, sedentary control and APT control. Seven months after infection, the animals underwent echocardiography, myocardial perfusion scintigraphy and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Moderate-intensity APT was performed for fifty minutes, five times a week, for eight weeks. Subsequently, the animals were reassessed. Histopathological analysis was conducted after the above-mentioned procedures. The level of significance was set at 5% in all analyses (p<0.05).

RESULTS

CCC sedentary animals presented worse myocardial perfusion defects (MPD) over time, reduced left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) and showed more inflammation and fibrosis when compared to other groups (mixed ANOVA analysis). Conversely, APT was able to mitigate the progression of MPD, ameliorate inflammation and fibrosis and improve CRF efficiency in CCC-APT animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that APT ameliorated cardiac dysfunction, MPD, and reduced inflammation and fibrosis in CCC hamster models. Additionally, CCC-SED animals presented skeletal muscle atrophy while CCC-APT animals showed preserved skeletal muscle CSA. Understanding APT's effects on CCC's pathophysiological dimensions is crucial for future research and therapeutic interventions.

Unlocking the secrets of exercise: A pathway to enhanced insulin sensitivity and skeletal muscle health in type 2 diabetes

•Exercise impacts skeletal muscle and systemic metabolism, yet understanding the complex molecular mechanisms behind these effects remains a key research challenge. •Mapping the molecular effects of exercise with advanced “omics” can advance our understanding of muscle function and metabolism. •Exercise holds promise for managing and preventing type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the need for more research on individualized training and its molecular effects.

Pre-exercise supplementation with curcuma xanthorrhiza roxb has minimal impact on red blood cell parameters but reduces oxidative stress: a preliminary study in rats

PURPOSE

This study examined the effects of longterm pre-exercise Curcuma xanthorriza Roxb supplementation on red blood cell indices along with circulating malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in response to endurance exercise to address previously inconsistent findings.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus; n = 20, aged 12-16 weeks) were divided equally into an exercise-only group (C) and three groups supplemented with Curcuma extract at dosages of 6.75 (T1), 13.50 (T2), and 20.25 mg (T3). Curcuma extract supplementation was administered for 28 d immediately prior to exercise.

RESULTS

Following 28 d of exhaustive swimming, the hematocrit and erythrocyte count increased by 15% (p = 0.06). Pre-exercise Curcuma supplementation did not significantly affect mean corpuscular volume or mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Longterm exercise intervention resulted in elevated MDA levels by 41% (p <0.001), while Curcuma supplementation (13.50 mg) attenuated this increase by 16.6% (p = 0.09). Additionally, Curcuma supplementation resulted in a dose-dependent increase in SOD levels, with an 82.6% increase observed at 20.25 mg (p = 0.028).

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary findings indicated that pre-exercise supplementation with Curcuma extract had a negligible effect on changes in red blood cell markers, but it mitigated the increase in oxidative stress induced by exercise training. Our future research direction will involve applying the findings to humans.

Exercise as a tool to mitigate metabolic disease

Metabolic diseases, notably obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D), have reached alarming proportions and constitute a significant global health challenge, emphasizing the urgent need for effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. In contrast, exercise training emerges as a potent intervention, exerting numerous positive effects on metabolic health through adaptations to the metabolic tissues. Here, we reviewed the major features of our current understanding with respect to the intricate interplay between metabolic diseases and key metabolic tissues, including adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and liver, describing some of the main underlying mechanisms driving pathogenesis, as well as the role of exercise to combat and treat obesity and metabolic disease.

Diacylglycerol kinase delta overexpression improves glucose clearance and protects against the development of obesity

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) isoforms catalyze an enzymatic reaction that removes diacylglycerol (DAG) and thereby terminates protein kinase C signaling by converting DAG to phosphatidic acid. DGKδ (type II isozyme) downregulation causes insulin resistance, metabolic inflexibility, and obesity. Here we determined whether DGKδ overexpression prevents these metabolic impairments.

METHODS

We generated a transgenic mouse model overexpressing human DGKδ2 under the myosin light chain promoter (DGKδ TG). We performed deep metabolic phenotyping of DGKδ TG mice and wild-type littermates fed chow or high-fat diet (HFD). Mice were also provided free access to running wheels to examine the effects of DGKδ overexpression on exercise-induced metabolic outcomes.

RESULTS

DGKδ TG mice were leaner than wild-type littermates, with improved glucose tolerance and increased skeletal muscle glycogen content. DGKδ TG mice were protected against HFD-induced glucose intolerance and obesity. DGKδ TG mice had reduced epididymal fat and enhanced lipolysis. Strikingly, DGKδ overexpression recapitulated the beneficial effects of exercise on metabolic outcomes. DGKδ overexpression and exercise had a synergistic effect on body weight reduction. Microarray analysis of skeletal muscle revealed common gene ontology signatures of exercise and DGKδ overexpression that were related to lipid storage, extracellular matrix, and glycerophospholipids biosynthesis pathways.

CONCLUSION

Overexpression of DGKδ induces adaptive changes in both skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, resulting in protection against HFD-induced obesity. DGKδ overexpression recapitulates exercise-induced adaptations on energy homeostasis and skeletal muscle gene expression profiles.

The Current State of Knowledge Regarding the Genetic Predisposition to Sports and Its Health Implications in the Context of the Redox Balance, Especially Antioxidant Capacity

The significance of physical activity in sports is self-evident. However, its importance is becoming increasingly apparent in the context of public health. The constant desire to improve health and performance suggests looking at genetic predispositions. The knowledge of genes related to physical performance can be utilized initially in the training of athletes to assign them to the appropriate sport. In the field of medicine, this knowledge may be more effectively utilized in the prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic diseases. Physical exertion engages the entire organism, and at a basic physiological level, the organism's responses are primarily related to oxidant and antioxidant reactions due to intensified cellular respiration. Therefore, the modifications involve the body adjusting to the stresses, especially oxidative stress. The consequence of regular exercise is primarily an increase in antioxidant capacity. Among the genes considered, those that promote oxidative processes dominate, as they are associated with energy production during exercise. What is missing, however, is a look at the other side of the coin, which, in this case, is antioxidant processes and the genes associated with them. It has been demonstrated that antioxidant genes associated with increased physical performance do not always result in increased antioxidant capacity. Nevertheless, it seems that maintaining the oxidant-antioxidant balance is the most important thing in this regard.

Molecular insights of exercise therapy in disease prevention and treatment

Despite substantial evidence emphasizing the pleiotropic benefits of exercise for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, the underlying biological mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Several exercise benefits have been attributed to signaling molecules that are released in response to exercise by different tissues such as skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, adipose, and liver tissue. These signaling molecules, which are collectively termed exerkines, form a heterogenous group of bioactive substances, mediating inter-organ crosstalk as well as structural and functional tissue adaption. Numerous scientific endeavors have focused on identifying and characterizing new biological mediators with such properties. Additionally, some investigations have focused on the molecular targets of exerkines and the cellular signaling cascades that trigger adaption processes. A detailed understanding of the tissue-specific downstream effects of exerkines is crucial to harness the health-related benefits mediated by exercise and improve targeted exercise programs in health and disease. Herein, we review the current in vivo evidence on exerkine-induced signal transduction across multiple target tissues and highlight the preventive and therapeutic value of exerkine signaling in various diseases. By emphasizing different aspects of exerkine research, we provide a comprehensive overview of (i) the molecular underpinnings of exerkine secretion, (ii) the receptor-dependent and receptor-independent signaling cascades mediating tissue adaption, and (iii) the clinical implications of these mechanisms in disease prevention and treatment.

Can Daily Dietary Choices Have a Cardioprotective Effect? Food Compounds in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiometabolic Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases accompanying metabolic syndrome comprise one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The medical community undertakes attempts to improve treatment options and minimize cardiovascular diseases' numerous consequences and exacerbations. In parallel with pharmacotherapies provided by physicians, nutritionists are developing strategies for diet therapy and prevention based on lifestyle changes, with high success rates. Consumption of specified food compounds included in various products with proven protective properties can be helpful in this regard. Due to the wide possibilities of diet in metabolic health promotion, it seems necessary to systematize information about the metabolically protective and cardioprotective properties of fiber, probiotic bacteria, plant sterols, folic acid, vitamins B12, C, and E, PUFAs, lycopene, polyphenols, arginine, CoQ10, and allicin. The aim of this review was to present the food compounds with potential use in cardiometabolic prevention and diet therapy based on the latest available literature.