Comments on Point:Counterpoint: Hypobaric hypoxia induces/does not induce different responses from normobaric hypoxia

Simulated altitude is medicine: intermittent exposure to hypobaric hypoxia and cold accelerates injured skeletal muscle recovery

Muscle injuries are the leading cause of sports casualties. Because of its high plasticity, skeletal muscle can respond to different stimuli to maintain and improve functionality. Intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (IHH) improves muscle oxygen delivery and utilization. Hypobaria coexists with cold in the biosphere, opening the possibility to consider the combined use of both environmental factors to achieve beneficial physiological adjustments. We studied the effects of IHH and cold exposure, separately and simultaneously, on muscle regeneration. Adult male rats were surgically injured in one gastrocnemius and randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) CTRL: passive recovery; (2) COLD: intermittently exposed to cold (4°C); (3) HYPO: submitted to IHH (4500 m); (4) COHY: exposed to intermittent simultaneous cold and hypoxia. Animals were subjected to these interventions for 4 h/day for 9 or 21 days. COLD and COHY rats showed faster muscle regeneration than CTRL, evidenced after 9 days at histological (dMHC-positive and centrally nucleated fibre reduction) and functional levels after 21 days. HYPO rats showed a full recovery from injury (at histological and functional levels) after 9 days, while COLD and COHY needed more time to induce a total functional recovery. IHH can be postulated as an anti-fibrotic treatment since it reduces collagen I deposition. The increase in the pSer473Akt/total Akt ratio observed after 9 days in COLD, HYPO and COHY, together with the increase in the pThr172AMPKα/total AMPKα ratio observed in the gastrocnemius of HYPO, provides clues to the molecular mechanisms involved in the improved muscle regeneration. KEY POINTS: Only intermittent hypobaric exposure accelerated muscle recovery as early as 9 days following injury at histological and functional levels. Injured muscles from animals treated with intermittent (4 h/day) cold, hypobaric hypoxia or a simultaneous combination of both stimuli regenerated histological structure and recovered muscle function 21 days after injury. The combination of cold and hypoxia showed a blunting effect as compared to hypoxia alone in the time course of the muscle recovery. The increased expression of the phosphorylated forms of Akt observed in all experimental groups could participate in the molecular cascade of events leading to a faster regeneration. The elevated levels of phosphorylated AMPKα in the HYPO group could play a key role in the modulation of the inflammatory response during the first steps of the muscle regeneration process.

Optimal type and dose of hypoxic training for improving maximal aerobic capacity in athletes: a systematic review and Bayesian model-based network meta-analysis

Objective: This study aimed to compare and rank the effect of hypoxic practices on maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) in athletes and determine the hypoxic dose-response correlation using network meta-analysis. Methods: The Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and EBSCO databases were systematically search for randomized controlled trials on the effect of hypoxc interventions on the VO2max of athletes published from inception until 21 February 2023. Studies that used live-high train-high (LHTH), live-high train-low (LHTL), live-high, train-high/low (HHL), intermittent hypoxic training (IHT), and intermittent hypoxic exposure (IHE) interventions were primarily included. LHTL was further defined according to the type of hypoxic environment (natural and simulated) and the altitude of the training site (low altitude and sea level). A meta-analysis was conducted to determine the standardized mean difference between the effects of various hypoxic interventions on VO2max and dose-response correlation. Furthermore, the hypoxic dosage of the different interventions were coordinated using the "kilometer hour" model. Results: From 2,072 originally identified titles, 59 studies were finally included in this study. After data pooling, LHTL, LHTH, and IHT outperformed normoxic training in improving the VO2max of athletes. According to the P-scores, LHTL combined with low altitude training was the most effective intervention for improving VO2max (natural: 0.92 and simulated: 0.86) and was better than LHTL combined with sea level training (0.56). A reasonable hypoxic dose range for LHTH (470-1,130 kmh) and HL (500-1,415 kmh) was reported with an inverted U-shaped curve relationship. Conclusion: Different types of hypoxic training compared with normoxic training serve as significant approaches for improving aerobic capacity in athletes. Regardless of the type of hypoxic training and the residential condition, LHTL with low altitude training was the most effective intervention. The characteristics of the dose-effect correlation of LHTH and LHTL may be associated with the negative effects of chronic hypoxia.

"Living High-Training Low" for Olympic Medal Performance: What Have We Learned 25 Years After Implementation?

BACKGROUND

Altitude training is often regarded as an indispensable tool for the success of elite endurance athletes. Historically, altitude training emerged as a key strategy to prepare for the 1968 Olympics, held at 2300 m in Mexico City, and was limited to the "Live High-Train High" method for endurance athletes aiming for performance gains through improved oxygen transport. This "classical" intervention was modified in 1997 by the "Live High-Train Low" (LHTL) model wherein athletes supplemented acclimatization to chronic hypoxia with high-intensity training at low altitude.

PURPOSE

This review discusses important considerations for successful implementation of LHTL camps in elite athletes based on experiences, both published and unpublished, of the authors.

APPROACH

The originality of our approach is to discuss 10 key "lessons learned," since the seminal work by Levine and Stray-Gundersen was published in 1997, and focusing on (1) optimal dose, (2) individual responses, (3) iron status, (4) training-load monitoring, (5) wellness and well-being monitoring, (6) timing of the intervention, (7) use of natural versus simulated hypoxia, (8) robustness of adaptative mechanisms versus performance benefits, (9) application for a broad range of athletes, and (10) combination of methods. Successful LHTL strategies implemented by Team USA athletes for podium performance at Olympic Games and/or World Championships are presented.

CONCLUSIONS

The evolution of the LHTL model represents an essential framework for sport science, in which field-driven questions about performance led to critical scientific investigation and subsequent practical implementation of a unique approach to altitude training.

Effects of Intermittent Hypoxia-Hyperoxia on Performance- and Health-Related Outcomes in Humans: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Intermittent hypoxia applied at rest or in combination with exercise promotes multiple beneficial adaptations with regard to performance and health in humans. It was hypothesized that replacing normoxia by moderate hyperoxia can increase the adaptive response to the intermittent hypoxic stimulus.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to systematically review the current state of the literature on the effects of chronic intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia (IHH) on performance- and health-related outcomes in humans.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science™, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (January 2000 to September 2021) using the following inclusion criteria: (1) original research articles involving humans, (2) investigation of the chronic effect of IHH, (3) inclusion of a control group being not exposed to IHH, and (4) articles published in peer-reviewed journals written in English.

RESULTS

Of 1085 articles initially found, eight studies were included. IHH was solely performed at rest in different populations including geriatric patients (n = 1), older patients with cardiovascular (n = 3) and metabolic disease (n = 2) or cognitive impairment (n = 1), and young athletes with overtraining syndrome (n = 1). The included studies confirmed the beneficial effects of chronic exposure to IHH, showing improvements in exercise tolerance, peak oxygen uptake, and global cognitive functions, as well as lowered blood glucose levels. A trend was discernible that chronic exposure to IHH can trigger a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The evidence of whether IHH exerts beneficial effects on blood lipid levels and haematological parameters is currently inconclusive. A meta-analysis was not possible because the reviewed studies had a considerable heterogeneity concerning the investigated populations and outcome parameters.

CONCLUSION

Based on the published literature, it can be suggested that chronic exposure to IHH might be a promising non-pharmacological intervention strategy for improving peak oxygen consumption, exercise tolerance, and cognitive performance as well as reducing blood glucose levels, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure in older patients with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases or cognitive impairment. However, further randomized controlled trials with adequate sample sizes are needed to confirm and extend the evidence. This systematic review was registered on the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO-ID: CRD42021281248) ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ ).

Altitude, Exercise, and Skeletal Muscle Angio-Adaptive Responses to Hypoxia: A Complex Story

Hypoxia, defined as a reduced oxygen availability, can be observed in many tissues in response to various physiological and pathological conditions. As a hallmark of the altitude environment, ambient hypoxia results from a drop in the oxygen pressure in the atmosphere with elevation. A hypoxic stress can also occur at the cellular level when the oxygen supply through the local microcirculation cannot match the cells’ metabolic needs. This has been suggested in contracting skeletal myofibers during physical exercise. Regardless of its origin, ambient or exercise-induced, muscle hypoxia triggers complex angio-adaptive responses in the skeletal muscle tissue. These can result in the expression of a plethora of angio-adaptive molecules, ultimately leading to the growth, stabilization, or regression of muscle capillaries. This remarkable plasticity of the capillary network is referred to as angio-adaptation. It can alter the capillary-to-myofiber interface, which represent an important determinant of skeletal muscle function. These angio-adaptive molecules can also be released in the circulation as myokines to act on distant tissues. This review addresses the respective and combined potency of ambient hypoxia and exercise to generate a cellular hypoxic stress in skeletal muscle. The major skeletal muscle angio-adaptive responses to hypoxia so far described in this context will be discussed, including existing controversies in the field. Finally, this review will highlight the molecular complexity of the skeletal muscle angio-adaptive response to hypoxia and identify current gaps of knowledges in this field of exercise and environmental physiology.

Iron insufficiency diminishes the erythropoietic response to moderate altitude exposure

The effects of iron stores and supplementation on erythropoietic responses to moderate altitude in endurance athletes were examined. In a retrospective study, red cell compartment volume (RCV) responses to 4 wk at 2,500 m were assessed in athletes with low ( n = 9, ≤20 and ≤30 ng/mL for women and men, respectively) and normal ( n = 10) serum ferritin levels ([Ferritin]) without iron supplementation. In a subsequent prospective study, the same responses were assessed in athletes ( n = 26) with a protocol designed to provide sufficient iron before and during identical altitude exposure. The responses to a 4-wk training camp at sea level were assessed in another group of athletes ( n = 13) as controls. RCV and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max) were determined at sea level before and after intervention. In the retrospective study, athletes with low [Ferritin] did not increase RCV (27.0 ± 2.9 to 27.5 ± 3.8 mL/kg, mean ± SD, P = 0.65) or V̇o2max (60.2 ± 7.2 to 62.2 ± 7.5 mL·kg−1·min−1, P = 0.23) after 4 wk at altitude, whereas athletes with normal [Ferritin] increased both (RCV: 27.3 ± 3.1 to 29.8 ± 2.4 mL/kg, P = 0.002; V̇o2max: 62.0 ± 3.1 to 66.2 ± 3.7 mL·kg−1·min−1, P = 0.003). In the prospective study, iron supplementation normalized low [Ferritin] observed in athletes exposed to altitude ( n = 14) and sea level ( n = 6) before the altitude/sea-level camp and maintained [Ferritin] within normal range in all athletes during the camp. RCV and V̇o2max increased in the altitude group but remained unchanged in the sea-level group. Finally, the increase in RCV correlated with the increase in V̇o2max [( r = 0.368, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.059–0.612, P = 0.022]. Thus, iron deficiency in athletes restrains erythropoiesis to altitude exposure and may preclude improvement in sea-level athletic performance.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Hypoxic exposure increases iron requirements and utilization for erythropoiesis in athletes. This study clearly demonstrates that iron deficiency in athletes inhibits accelerated erythropoiesis to a sojourn to moderate high altitude and may preclude a potential improvement in sea-level athletic performance with altitude training. Iron replacement therapy before and during altitude exposure is important to maximize performance gains after altitude training in endurance athletes.

Positive expiratory pressure improves arterial and cerebral oxygenation in acute normobaric and hypobaric hypoxia

Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) has been shown to limit hypoxia-induced reduction in arterial oxygen saturation, but its effectiveness on systemic and cerebral adaptations, depending on the type of hypoxic exposure [normobaric (NH) versus hypobaric (HH)], remains unknown. Thirteen healthy volunteers completed three randomized sessions consisting of 24-h exposure to either normobaric normoxia (NN), NH (inspiratory oxygen fraction, FiO2 = 13.6%; barometric pressure, BP = 716 mmHg; inspired oxygen partial pressure, PiO2 = 90.9 ± 1.0 mmHg), or HH (3,450 m, FiO2 = 20.9%, BP = 482 mmHg, PiO2 = 91.0 ± 0.6 mmHg). After the 6th and the 22nd hours, participants breathed quietly through a facemask with a 10-cmH₂O PEP for 2 × 5 min interspaced with 5 min of free breathing. Arterial (SpO2, pulse oximetry), quadriceps, and cerebral (near-infrared spectroscopy) oxygenation, middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv; transcranial Doppler), ventilation, and cardiovascular responses were recorded continuously. SpO2without PEP was significantly lower in HH (87 ± 4% on average for both time points, P < 0.001) compared with NH (91 ± 3%) and NN (97 ± 1%). PEP breathing did not change SpO2 in NN but increased it similarly in NH and HH (+4.3 ± 2.5 and +4.7 ± 4.1% after 6h; +3.5 ± 2.2 and +4.1 ± 2.9% after 22h, both P < 0.001). Although MCAv was reduced by PEP (in all sessions and at all time points, -6.0 ± 4.2 cm/s on average, P < 0.001), the cerebral oxygenation was significantly improved (P < 0.05) with PEP in both NH and HH, with no difference between conditions. These data indicate that PEP could be an attractive nonpharmacological means to improve arterial and cerebral oxygenation under both normobaric and hypobaric mild hypoxic conditions in healthy participants.

Combined effects of exposure to hypoxia and cool on walking economy and muscle oxygenation profiles at tibialis anterior

We investigated combined effects of ambient temperature (23°C or 13°C) and fraction of inspired oxygen (21%O₂ or 13%O₂) on energy cost of walking (C_w: J·kg^-1·km^-1) and economical speed (ES). Eighteen healthy young adults (11 males, seven females) walked at seven speeds from 0.67 to 1.67 m s^-1 (four min per stage). Environmental conditions were set; thermoneutral (N: 23°C) with normoxia (N: 21%O₂) = NN; 23°C (N) with hypoxia (H: 13%O₂) = NH; cool (C: 13°C) with 21%O₂ (N) = CN, and 13°C (C) with 13%O₂ (H) = CH. Muscle deoxygenation (HHb) and tissue O₂ saturation (StO₂) were measured at tibialis anterior. We found a significantly slower ES in NH (1.289 ± 0.091 m s^-1) and CH (1.275 ± 0.099 m s^-1) than in NN (1.334 ± 0.112 m s^-1) and CN (1.332 ± 0.104 m s^-1). Changes in HHb and StO₂ were related to the ES. These results suggested that the combined effects (exposure to hypoxia and cool) is nearly equal to exposure to hypoxia and cool individually. Specifically, acute moderate hypoxia slowed the ES by approx. 4%, but acute cool environment did not affect the ES. Further, HHb and StO₂ may partly account for an individual ES.

Modulations of Neuroendocrine Stress Responses During Confinement in Antarctica and the Role of Hypobaric Hypoxia

The Antarctic continent is an environment of extreme conditions. Only few research stations exist that are occupied throughout the year. The German station Neumayer III and the French-Italian Concordia station are such research platforms and human outposts. The seasonal shifts of complete daylight (summer) to complete darkness (winter) as well as massive changes in outside temperatures (down to -80°C at Concordia) during winter result in complete confinement of the crews from the outside world. In addition, the crew at Concordia is subjected to hypobaric hypoxia of ∼650 hPa as the station is situated at high altitude (3,233 m). We studied three expedition crews at Neumayer III (sea level) (n = 16) and two at Concordia (high altitude) (n = 15) to determine the effects of hypobaric hypoxia on hormonal/metabolic stress parameters [endocannabinoids (ECs), catecholamines, and glucocorticoids] and evaluated the psychological stress over a period of 11 months including winter confinement. In the Neumayer III (sea level) crew, EC and n-acylethanolamide (NAE) concentrations increased significantly already at the beginning of the deployment (p < 0.001) whereas catecholamines and cortisol remained unaffected. Over the year, ECs and NAEs stayed elevated and fluctuated before slowly decreasing till the end of the deployment. The classical stress hormones showed small increases in the last third of deployment. By contrast, at Concordia (high altitude), norepinephrine concentrations increased significantly at the beginning (p < 0.001) which was paralleled by low EC levels. Prior to the second half of deployment, norepinephrine declined constantly to end on a low plateau level, whereas then the EC concentrations increased significantly in this second period during the overwintering (p < 0.001). Psychometric data showed no significant changes in the crews at either station. These findings demonstrate that exposition of healthy humans to the physically challenging extreme environment of Antarctica (i) has a distinct modulating effect on stress responses. Additionally, (ii) acute high altitude/hypobaric hypoxia at the beginning seem to trigger catecholamine release that downregulates the EC response. These results (iii) are not associated with psychological stress.

Physiological and Biological Responses to Short-Term Intermittent Hypobaric Hypoxia Exposure: From Sports and Mountain Medicine to New Biomedical Applications

In recent years, the altitude acclimatization responses elicited by short-term intermittent exposure to hypoxia have been subject to renewed attention. The main goal of short-term intermittent hypobaric hypoxia exposure programs was originally to improve the aerobic capacity of athletes or to accelerate the altitude acclimatization response in alpinists, since such programs induce an increase in erythrocyte mass. Several model programs of intermittent exposure to hypoxia have presented efficiency with respect to this goal, without any of the inconveniences or negative consequences associated with permanent stays at moderate or high altitudes. Artificial intermittent exposure to normobaric hypoxia systems have seen a rapid rise in popularity among recreational and professional athletes, not only due to their unbeatable cost/efficiency ratio, but also because they help prevent common inconveniences associated with high-altitude stays such as social isolation, nutritional limitations, and other minor health and comfort-related annoyances. Today, intermittent exposure to hypobaric hypoxia is known to elicit other physiological response types in several organs and body systems. These responses range from alterations in the ventilatory pattern to modulation of the mitochondrial function. The central role played by hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) in activating a signaling molecular cascade after hypoxia exposure is well known. Among these targets, several growth factors that upregulate the capillary bed by inducing angiogenesis and promoting oxidative metabolism merit special attention. Applying intermittent hypobaric hypoxia to promote the action of some molecules, such as angiogenic factors, could improve repair and recovery in many tissue types. This article uses a comprehensive approach to examine data obtained in recent years. We consider evidence collected from different tissues, including myocardial capillarization, skeletal muscle fiber types and fiber size changes induced by intermittent hypoxia exposure, and discuss the evidence that points to beneficial interventions in applied fields such as sport science. Short-term intermittent hypoxia may not only be useful for healthy people, but could also be considered a promising tool to be applied, with due caution, to some pathophysiological states.

Feasibility of using normobaric hypoxic stress in mTBI research

Studies of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) recovery generally assess patients in unstressed conditions that permit compensation for impairments through increased effort expenditure. This possibility may explain why a subgroup of individuals report persistent mTBI symptoms yet perform normally on objective assessment. Accordingly, the development and utilization of stress paradigms may be effective for enhancing the sensitivity of mTBI assessment. Previous studies, discussed here, indirectly but plausibly support the use of normobaric hypoxia as a stressor in uncovering latent mTBI symptoms due to the overlapping symptomatology induced by both normobaric hypoxia and mTBI. Limited studies by our group and others further support this plausibility through proof-of-concept demonstrations that hypoxia reversibly induces disproportionately severe impairments of oculomotor, pupillometric, cognitive and autonomic function in mTBI individuals.

Acute and chronic changes in baroreflex sensitivity in hypobaric vs. normobaric hypoxia

Normobaric hypoxia (NH) is used as a surrogate for hypobaric hypoxia (HH). Recent studies reported physiological differences between NH and HH. Baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) decreases at altitude or following intense training. However, until now no study compared the acute and chronic changes of BRS in NH vs. HH. First, BRS was assessed in 13 healthy male subjects prior and after 20 h of exposure at 3450 m (study 1), and second in 15 well-trained athletes prior and after 18 days of "live-high train-low" (LHTL) at 2250 m (study 2) in NH vs. HH. BRS decreased (p < 0.05) to the same extent in NH and HH after 20 h of hypoxia and after LHTL. These results confirm that altitude decreases BRS but the decrease is similar between HH and NH. The persistence of this decrease after the cessation of a chronic exposure is new and does not differ between HH and NH. The previously reported physiological differences between NH and HH do not appear strong enough to induce different BRS responses.

The Use of Simulated Altitude Techniques for Beneficial Cardiovascular Health Outcomes in Nonathletic, Sedentary, and Clinical Populations: A Literature Review

Lizamore, Catherine A., and Michael J. Hamlin. The use of simulated altitude techniques for beneficial cardiovascular health outcomes in nonathletic, sedentary, and clinical populations: A literature review. High Alt Med Biol 18:305-321, 2017.

BACKGROUND

The reportedly beneficial improvements in an athlete's physical performance following altitude training may have merit for individuals struggling to meet physical activity guidelines.

AIM

To review the effectiveness of simulated altitude training methodologies at improving cardiovascular health in sedentary and clinical cohorts.

METHODS

Articles were selected from Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases using a combination of the following search terms anywhere in the article: "intermittent hypoxia," "intermittent hypoxic," "normobaric hypoxia," or "altitude," and a participant descriptor including the following: "sedentary," "untrained," or "inactive."

RESULTS

1015 articles were returned, of which 26 studies were accepted (4 clinical cohorts, 22 studies used sedentary participants). Simulated altitude methodologies included prolonged hypoxic exposure (PHE: continuous hypoxic interval), intermittent hypoxic exposure (IHE: 5-10 minutes hypoxic:normoxic intervals), and intermittent hypoxic training (IHT: exercising in hypoxia).

CONCLUSIONS

In a clinical cohort, PHE for 3-4 hours at 2700-4200 m for 2-3 weeks may improve blood lipid profile, myocardial perfusion, and exercise capacity, while 3 weeks of IHE treatment may improve baroreflex sensitivity and heart rate variability. In the sedentary population, IHE was most likely to improve submaximal exercise tolerance, time to exhaustion, and heart rate variability. Hematological adaptations were unclear. Typically, a 4-week intervention of 1-hour-long PHE intervals 5 days a week, at a fraction of inspired oxygen (F_IO₂) of 0.15, was beneficial for pulmonary ventilation, submaximal exercise, and maximum oxygen consumption ([Formula: see text]O_2max), but an F_IO₂ of 0.12 reduced hyperemic response and antioxidative capacity. While IHT may be beneficial for increased lipid metabolism in the short term, it is unlikely to confer any additional advantage over normoxic exercise over the long term. IHT may improve vascular health and autonomic balance.

Interstitial lung fluid balance in healthy lowlanders exposed to high-altitude

We aimed to assess lung fluid balance before and after gradual ascent to 5150m. Lung diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), alveolar-capillary membrane conductance (Dm_CO) and ultrasound lung comets (ULCs) were assessed in 12 healthy lowlanders at sea-level, and on Day 1, Day 5 and Day 9 after arrival at Mount Everest Base Camp (EBC). EBC was reached following an 8-day hike at progressively increasing altitudes starting at 2860m. DLCO was unchanged from sea-level to Day 1 at EBC, but increased on Day 5 (11±10%) and Day 9 (10±9%) vs. sea-level (P≤0.047). Dm_CO increased from sea-level to Day 1 (9±6%), Day 5 (12±8%), and Day 9 (17±11%) (all P≤0.001) at EBC. There was no change in ULCs from sea-level to Day 1, Day 5 and Day 9 at EBC. These data provide evidence that interstitial lung fluid remains stable or may even decrease relative to at sea-level following 8days of gradual exposure to high-altitude in healthy humans.

Markers of physiological stress during exercise under conditions of normoxia, normobaric hypoxia, hypobaric hypoxia, and genuine high altitude

Purpose

To investigate whether there is a differential response at rest and following exercise to conditions of genuine high altitude (GHA), normobaric hypoxia (NH), hypobaric hypoxia (HH), and normobaric normoxia (NN).

Method

Markers of sympathoadrenal and adrenocortical function [plasma normetanephrine (PNORMET), metanephrine (PMET), cortisol], myocardial injury [highly sensitive cardiac troponin T (hscTnT)], and function [N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)] were evaluated at rest and with exercise under NN, at 3375 m in the Alps (GHA) and at equivalent simulated altitude under NH and HH. Participants cycled for 2 h [15-min warm-up, 105 min at 55% Wmax (maximal workload)] with venous blood samples taken prior (T0), immediately following (T120) and 2-h post-exercise (T240).

Results

Exercise in the three hypoxic environments produced a similar pattern of response with the only difference between environments being in relation to PNORMET. Exercise in NN only induced a rise in PNORMET and PMET.

Conclusion

Biochemical markers that reflect sympathoadrenal, adrenocortical, and myocardial responses to physiological stress demonstrate significant differences in the response to exercise under conditions of normoxia versus hypoxia, while NH and HH appear to induce broadly similar responses to GHA and may, therefore, be reasonable surrogates.

A Four-Way Comparison of Cardiac Function with Normobaric Normoxia, Normobaric Hypoxia, Hypobaric Hypoxia and Genuine High Altitude

BACKGROUND

There has been considerable debate as to whether different modalities of simulated hypoxia induce similar cardiac responses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of 14 healthy subjects aged 22-35 years. Echocardiography was performed at rest and at 15 and 120 minutes following two hours exercise under normobaric normoxia (NN) and under similar PiO2 following genuine high altitude (GHA) at 3,375 m, normobaric hypoxia (NH) and hypobaric hypoxia (HH) to simulate the equivalent hypoxic stimulus to GHA.

RESULTS

All 14 subjects completed the experiment at GHA, 11 at NN, 12 under NH, and 6 under HH. The four groups were similar in age, sex and baseline demographics. At baseline rest right ventricular (RV) systolic pressure (RVSP, p = 0.0002), pulmonary vascular resistance (p = 0.0002) and acute mountain sickness (AMS) scores were higher and the SpO2 lower (p<0.0001) among all three hypoxic groups (GHA, NH and HH) compared with NN. At both 15 minutes and 120 minutes post exercise, AMS scores, Cardiac output, septal S', lateral S', tricuspid S' and A' velocities and RVSP were higher and SpO2 lower with all forms of hypoxia compared with NN. On post-test analysis, among the three hypoxia groups, SpO2 was lower at baseline and 15 minutes post exercise with GHA (89.3±3.4% and 89.3±2.2%) and HH (89.0±3.1 and (89.8±5.0) compared with NH (92.9±1.7 and 93.6±2.5%). The RV Myocardial Performance (Tei) Index and RVSP were significantly higher with HH than NH at 15 and 120 minutes post exercise respectively and tricuspid A' was higher with GHA compared with NH at 15 minutes post exercise.

CONCLUSIONS

GHA, NH and HH produce similar cardiac adaptations over short duration rest despite lower SpO2 levels with GHA and HH compared with NH. Notable differences emerge following exercise in SpO2, RVSP and RV cardiac function.

Evidence for cerebral edema, cerebral perfusion, and intracranial pressure elevations in acute mountain sickness

INTRODUCTION

We hypothesized that cerebral alterations in edema, perfusion, and/or intracranial pressure (ICP) are related to the development of acute mountain sickness (AMS).

METHODS

To vary AMS, we manipulated ambient oxygen, barometric pressure, and exercise duration. Thirty-six subjects were tested before, during and after 8 h exposures in (1) normobaric normoxia (NN; 300 m elevation equivalent); (2) normobaric hypoxia (NH; 4400 m equivalent); and (3) hypobaric hypoxia (HH; 4400 m equivalent). After a passive 15 min ascent, each subject participated in either 10 or 60 min of cycling exercise at 50% of heart rate reserve. We measured tissue absorption and scattering via radio-frequency near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) via ultrasound, and AMS symptoms before, during, and after environmental exposures.

RESULTS

We observed significant increases in NIRS tissue scattering of 0.35 ± 0.11 cm(-1) (P = 0.001) in subjects with AMS (i.e., AMS+), consistent with mildly increased cerebral edema. We also noted a small, but significant increase in total hemoglobin concentrations with AMS+, 3.2 ± 0.8 μmolL(-1) (P < 0.0005), consistent with increased cerebral perfusion. No effect of exercise duration was found, nor did we detect differences between NH and HH. ONSD assays documented a small but significant increase in ONSD (0.11 ± 0.02 mm; P < 0.0005) with AMS+, suggesting mildly elevated ICP, as well as further increased ONSD with longer exercise duration (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

In AMS+, we found evidence of cerebral edema, elevated cerebral perfusion, and elevated ICP. The observed changes were small but consistent with the reversible nature of AMS.

PlanHab: the combined and separate effects of 16 days of bed rest and normobaric hypoxic confinement on circulating lipids and indices of insulin sensitivity in healthy men

PlanHab is a planetary habitat simulation study. The atmosphere within future space habitats is anticipated to have reduced Po2, but information is scarce as to how physiological systems may respond to combined exposure to moderate hypoxia and reduced gravity. This study investigated, using a randomized-crossover design, how insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and circulating lipids were affected by 16 days of horizontal bed rest in normobaric normoxia [NBR: FiO2 = 0.209; PiO2 = 133.1 (0.3) mmHg], horizontal bed rest in normobaric hypoxia [HBR: FiO2 = 0.141 (0.004); PiO2 = 90.0 (0.4) mmHg], and confinement in normobaric hypoxia combined with daily moderate intensity exercise (HAMB). A mixed-meal tolerance test, with arterialized-venous blood sampling, was performed in 11 healthy, nonobese men (25-45 yr) before (V1) and on the morning ofday 17of each intervention (V2). Postprandial glucose and c-peptide response were increased at V2 of both bed rest interventions (P< 0.05 in each case), with c-peptide:insulin ratio higher at V2 in HAMB and HBR, both in the fed and fasted state (P< 0.005 in each case). Fasting total cholesterol was reduced at V2 in HAMB [-0.47 (0.36) mmol/l;P< 0.005] and HBR [-0.55 (0.41) mmol/l;P< 0.005]. Fasting HDL was lower at V2 in all interventions, with the reduction observed in HBR [-0.30 (0.21) mmol/l] greater than that measured in HAMB [-0.13 (0.14) mmol/l;P< 0.005] and NBR [-0.17 (0.15) mmol/l;P< 0.05]. Hypoxia did not alter the adverse effects of bed rest on insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance but appeared to increase insulin clearance. The negative effect of bed rest on HDL was compounded in hypoxia, which may have implications for long-term health of those living in future space habitats.

HIF-1-driven skeletal muscle adaptations to chronic hypoxia: molecular insights into muscle physiology

Skeletal muscle is a metabolically active tissue and the major body protein reservoir. Drop in ambient oxygen pressure likely results in a decrease in muscle cells oxygenation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and stabilization of the oxygen-sensitive hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α. However, skeletal muscle seems to be quite resistant to hypoxia compared to other organs, probably because it is accustomed to hypoxic episodes during physical exercise. Few studies have observed HIF-1α accumulation in skeletal muscle during ambient hypoxia probably because of its transient stabilization. Nevertheless, skeletal muscle presents adaptations to hypoxia that fit with HIF-1 activation, although the exact contribution of HIF-2, I kappa B kinase and activating transcription factors, all potentially activated by hypoxia, needs to be determined. Metabolic alterations result in the inhibition of fatty acid oxidation, while activation of anaerobic glycolysis is less evident. Hypoxia causes mitochondrial remodeling and enhanced mitophagy that ultimately lead to a decrease in ROS production, and this acclimatization in turn contributes to HIF-1α destabilization. Likewise, hypoxia has structural consequences with muscle fiber atrophy due to mTOR-dependent inhibition of protein synthesis and transient activation of proteolysis. The decrease in muscle fiber area improves oxygen diffusion into muscle cells, while inhibition of protein synthesis, an ATP-consuming process, and reduction in muscle mass decreases energy demand. Amino acids released from muscle cells may also have protective and metabolic effects. Collectively, these results demonstrate that skeletal muscle copes with the energetic challenge imposed by O2 rarefaction via metabolic optimization.

Enhanced muscular oxygen extraction in athletes exaggerates hypoxemia during exercise in hypoxia

High rate of muscular oxygen utilization facilitates the development of hypoxemia during exercise at altitude. Because endurance training stimulates oxygen extraction capacity, we investigated whether endurance athletes are at higher risk to developing hypoxemia and thereby acute mountain sickness symptoms during exercise at simulated high altitude. Elite athletes (ATL; n = 8) and fit controls (CON; n = 7) cycled for 20 min at 100 W (EX100W), as well as performed an incremental maximal oxygen consumption test (EXMAX) in normobaric hypoxia (0.107 inspired O2 fraction) or normoxia (0.209 inspired O2 fraction). Cardiorespiratory responses, arterial Po2 (PaO2), and oxygenation status in m. vastus lateralis [tissue oxygenation index (TOIM)] and frontal cortex (TOIC) by near-infrared spectroscopy, were measured. Muscle O2 uptake rate was estimated from change in oxyhemoglobin concentration during a 10-min arterial occlusion in m. gastrocnemius. Maximal oxygen consumption in normoxia was 70 ± 2 ml·min(-1·)kg(-1) in ATL vs. 43 ± 2 ml·min(-1·)kg(-1) in CON, and in hypoxia decreased more in ATL (-41%) than in CON (-25%, P < 0.05). Both in normoxia at PaO2 of ∼95 Torr, and in hypoxia at PaO2 of ∼35 Torr, muscle O2 uptake was twofold higher in ATL than in CON (0.12 vs. 0.06 ml·min(-1)·100 g(-1); P < 0.05). During EX100W in hypoxia, PaO2 dropped to lower (P < 0.05) values in ATL (27.6 ± 0.7 Torr) than in CON (33.5 ± 1.0 Torr). During EXMAX, but not during EX100W, TOIM was ∼15% lower in ATL than in CON (P < 0.05). TOIC was similar between the groups at any time. This study shows that maintenance of high muscular oxygen extraction rate at very low circulating PaO2 stimulates the development of hypoxemia during submaximal exercise in hypoxia in endurance-trained individuals. This effect may predispose to premature development of acute mountain sickness symptoms during exercise at altitude.

The physiological effects of hypobaric hypoxia versus normobaric hypoxia: a systematic review of crossover trials

Much hypoxia research has been carried out at high altitude in a hypobaric hypoxia (HH) environment. Many research teams seek to replicate high-altitude conditions at lower altitudes in either hypobaric hypoxic conditions or normobaric hypoxic (NH) laboratories. Implicit in this approach is the assumption that the only relevant condition that differs between these settings is the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2), which is commonly presumed to be the principal physiological stimulus to adaptation at high altitude. This systematic review is the first to present an overview of the current available literature regarding crossover studies relating to the different effects of HH and NH on human physiology. After applying our inclusion and exclusion criteria, 13 studies were deemed eligible for inclusion. Several studies reported a number of variables (e.g. minute ventilation and NO levels) that were different between the two conditions, lending support to the notion that true physiological difference is indeed present. However, the presence of confounding factors such as time spent in hypoxia, temperature, and humidity, and the limited statistical power due to small sample sizes, limit the conclusions that can be drawn from these findings. Standardisation of the study methods and reporting may aid interpretation of future studies and thereby improve the quality of data in this area. This is important to improve the quality of data that is used for improving the understanding of hypoxia tolerance, both at altitude and in the clinical setting.

Influence of acute normobaric hypoxia on physiological variables and lactate turn point determination in trained men

The goal of this study is to evaluate the response of physiological variables to acute normobaric hypoxia compared to normoxia and its influence on the lactate turn point determination according to the three-phase model of energy supply (Phase I: metabolically balanced at muscular level; Phase II: metabolically balanced at systemic level; Phase III: not metabolically balanced) during maximal incremental exercise. Ten physically active (VO2max 3.9 [0.49] l·min(-1)), healthy men (mean age [SD]: 25.3 [4.6] yrs.), participated in the study. All participants performed two maximal cycle ergometric exercise tests under normoxic as well as hypoxic conditions (FiO2 = 14%). Blood lactate concentration, heart rate, gas exchange data, and power output at maximum and the first and the second lactate turn point (LTP1, LTP2), the heart rate turn point (HRTP) and the first and the second ventilatory turn point (VETP1, VETP2) were determined. Since in normobaric hypoxia absolute power output (P) was reduced at all reference points (max: 314 / 274 W; LTP2: 218 / 184 W; LTP1: 110 / 96 W), as well as VO2max (max: 3.90 / 3.23 l·min(-1); LTP2: 2.90 / 2.43 l·min(-1); LTP1: 1.66 / 1.52 l·min(-1)), percentages of Pmax at LTP1, LTP2, HRTP and VETP1, VETP2 were almost identical for hypoxic as well as normoxic conditions. Heart rate was significantly reduced at Pmax in hypoxia (max: 190 / 185 bpm), but no significant differences were found at submaximal control points. Blood lactate concentration was not different at maximum, and all reference points in both conditions. Respiratory exchange ratio (RER) (max: 1.28 / 1.08; LTP2: 1.13 / 0.98) and ventilatory equivalents for O2 (max: 43.4 / 34.0; LTP2: 32.1 / 25.4) and CO2 (max: 34.1 / 31.6; LTP2: 29.1 / 26.1) were significantly higher at some reference points in hypoxia. Significant correlations were found between LTP1 and VETP1 (r = 0.778; p < 0.01), LTP2 and HRTP (r = 0.828; p < 0.01) and VETP2 (r = 0.948; p < 0.01) for power output for both conditions. We conclude that the lactate turn point determination according to the three-phase-model of energy supply is valid in normobaric, normoxic as well as hypoxic conditions. The turn points for La, HR, and VE were reproducible among both conditions, but shifted left to lower workloads. The lactate turn point determination may therefore be used for the prescription of exercise performance in both environments. Key PointsThe lactate turn point concept can be used for performance testing in normoxic and hypoxic conditionsThe better the performance of the athletes the higher is the effect of hypoxiaThe HRTP and LTP2 are strongly correlated that allows a simple performance testing using heart rate measures only.

Cycling performance decrement is greater in hypobaric versus normobaric hypoxia

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine whether cycling time trial (TT) performance differs between hypobaric hypoxia (HH) and normobaric hypoxia (NH) at the same ambient PO2 (93 mmHg, 4,300-m altitude equivalent).

METHODS

Two groups of healthy fit men were matched on physical performance and demographic characteristics and completed a 720-kJ time trial on a cycle ergometer at sea level (SL) and following approximately 2 h of resting exposure to either HH (n = 6, 20 ± 2 years, 75.2 ± 11.8 kg, mean ± SD) or NH (n = 6, 21 ± 3 years, 77.4 ± 8.8 kg). Volunteers were free to manually increase or decrease the work rate on the cycle ergometer. Heart rate (HR), arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected every 5 min during the TT, and the mean was calculated.

RESULTS

Both groups exhibited similar TT performance (min) at SL (73.9 ± 7.6 vs. 73.2 ± 8.2), but TT performance was longer (P < 0.05) in HH (121.0 ± 12.1) compared to NH (99.5 ± 18.1). The percent decrement in TT performance from SL to HH (65.1 ± 23.6%) was greater (P < 0.05) than that from SL to NH (35.5 ± 13.7%). The mean exercise SaO2, HR, and RPE during the TT were not different in HH compared to NH.

CONCLUSION

Cycling time trial performance is impaired to a greater degree in HH versus NH at the same ambient PO2 equivalent to 4,300 m despite similar cardiorespiratory responses.

AltitudeOmics: exercise-induced supraspinal fatigue is attenuated in healthy humans after acclimatization to high altitude

AIMS

We asked whether acclimatization to chronic hypoxia (CH) attenuates the level of supraspinal fatigue that is observed after locomotor exercise in acute hypoxia (AH).

METHODS

Seven recreationally active participants performed identical bouts of constant-load cycling (131 ± 39 W, 10.1 ± 1.4 min) on three occasions: (i) in normoxia (N, PI O2 , 147.1 mmHg); (ii) in AH (FI O2 , 0.105; PI O2 , 73.8 mmHg); and (iii) after 14 days in CH (5260 m; PI O2 , 75.7 mmHg). Throughout trials, prefrontal-cortex tissue oxygenation and middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAV) were assessed using near-infrared-spectroscopy and transcranial Doppler sonography. Pre- and post-exercise twitch responses to femoral nerve stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation were obtained to assess neuromuscular and corticospinal function.

RESULTS

In AH, prefrontal oxygenation declined at rest (Δ7 ± 5%) and end-exercise (Δ26 ± 13%) (P < 0.01); the degree of deoxygenation in AH was greater than N and CH (P < 0.05). The cerebral O2 delivery index (MCAV × Ca O2 ) was 19 ± 14% lower during the final minute of exercise in AH compared to N (P = 0.013) and 20 ± 12% lower compared to CH (P = 0.040). Maximum voluntary and potentiated twitch force were decreased below baseline after exercise in AH and CH, but not N. Cortical voluntary activation decreased below baseline after exercise in AH (Δ11%, P = 0.014), but not CH (Δ6%, P = 0.174) or N (Δ4%, P = 0.298). A twofold greater increase in motor-evoked potential amplitude was evident after exercise in CH compared to AH and N.

CONCLUSION

These data indicate that exacerbated supraspinal fatigue after exercise in AH is attenuated after 14 days of acclimatization to altitude. The reduced development of supraspinal fatigue in CH may have been attributable to increased corticospinal excitability, consequent to an increased cerebral O2 delivery.

Acute mountain sickness is not repeatable across two 12-hour normobaric hypoxia exposures

OBJECTIVE

The purposes of this experiment were to determine the repeatability of acute mountain sickness (AMS), AMS symptoms, and physiological responses across 2 identical hypoxic exposures.

METHODS

Subjects (n = 25) spent 3 nights at simulated altitude in a normobaric hypoxia chamber: twice at a partial pressure of inspired oxygen (PIO2) of 90mmHg (4000 m equivalent; "hypoxia") and once at a PIO2 of 132 mmHg (1000 m equivalent; "sham") with 14 or more days between exposures. The following variables were measured at hours 0 and 12 of each exposure: AMS severity (ie, Lake Louise score [LLS]), AMS incidence (LLS ≥3), heart rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide. Oxygen saturation and heart rate were also measured while subjects slept.

RESULTS

The incidence of AMS was not statistically different between the 2 exposures (84% vs 56%, P > .05), but the severity of AMS (ie, LLS) was significantly lower on the second hypoxic exposure (mean [SD], 3.1 [1.8]) relative to the first hypoxic exposure (4.8 [2.3]; P < .001). Headache was the only AMS symptom to have a significantly greater severity on both hypoxic exposures (relative to the sham exposure, P < .05). Physiological variables were moderately to strongly repeatable (intraclass correlation range 0.39 to 0.86) but were not associated with AMS susceptibility (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The LLS was not repeatable across 2 identical hypoxic exposures. Increased familiarity with the environment (not acclimation) could explain the reduced AMS severity on the second hypoxic exposure. Headache was the most reliable AMS symptom.

Physiology studies at high altitude; why and how

The military has always had an important role in high altitude research. This is due to the fact that mountainous regions often span borders and provide a safe haven to enemies. Deploying troops rapidly into high altitude environments presents major problems in terms of the development of high altitude illness. This paper examines the rationale for carrying out research at high altitude and the opportunities within the UK Defence Medical Services for carrying out this research.

Acute mountain sickness, chemosensitivity, and cardiorespiratory responses in humans exposed to hypobaric and normobaric hypoxia

We examined the control of breathing, cardiorespiratory effects, and the incidence of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in humans exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (HH) and normobaric hypoxia (NH), and under two control conditions [hypobaric normoxia (HN) and normobaric normoxia (NN)]. Exposures were 6 h in duration, and separated by 2 wk between hypoxic exposures and 1 wk between normoxic exposures. Before and after exposures, subjects (n = 11) underwent hyperoxic and hypoxic Duffin CO2 rebreathing tests and a hypoxic ventilatory response test (HVR). Inside the environmental chamber, minute ventilation (V(E)), tidal volume (V(T)), frequency of breathing (fB), blood oxygenation, heart rate, and blood pressure were measured at 5 and 30 min and hourly until exit. Symptoms of AMS were evaluated using the Lake Louise score (LLS). Both the hyperoxic and hypoxic CO2 thresholds were lower after HH and NH, whereas CO2 sensitivity was increased after HH and NH in the hypoxic test and after NH in the hyperoxic test. Values for HVR were similar across the four exposures. No major differences were observed for Ve or any other cardiorespiratory variables between NH and HH. The LLS was greater in AMS-susceptible than in AMS-resistant subjects; however, LLS was alike between HH and NH. In AMS-susceptible subjects, fB correlated positively and Vt negatively with the LLS. We conclude that 6 h of hypoxic exposure is sufficient to lower the peripheral and central CO2 threshold but does not induce differences in cardiorespiratory variables or AMS incidence between HH and NH.

The effect of hypoxemia and exercise on acute mountain sickness symptoms

Performing exercise during the first hours of hypoxic exposure is thought to exacerbate acute mountain sickness (AMS), but whether this is due to increased hypoxemia or other mechanisms associated with exercise remains unclear. In 12 healthy men, AMS symptoms were assessed during three 11-h experimental sessions: 1) in Hypoxia-exercise, inspiratory O(2) fraction (Fi(O(2))) was 0.12, and subjects performed 4-h cycling at 45% Fi(O(2))-specific maximal power output from the 4th to the 8th hour; 2) in Hypoxia-rest, Fi(O(2)) was continuously adjusted to match the same arterial oxygen saturation as in Hypoxia-exercise, and subjects remained at rest; and 3) in Normoxia-exercise, Fi(O(2)) was 0.21, and subjects cycled as in Hypoxia-exercise at 45% Fi(O(2))-specific maximal power output. AMS scores did not differ significantly between Hypoxia-exercise and Hypoxia-rest, while they were significantly lower in Normoxia-exercise (Lake Louise score: 5.5 ± 2.1, 4.4 ± 2.4, and 2.3 ± 1.5, and cerebral Environmental Symptom Questionnaire: 1.2 ± 0.7, 1.0 ± 1.0, and 0.3 ± 0.4, in Hypoxia-exercise, Hypoxia-rest, and Normoxia-exercise, respectively; P < 0.01). Headache scored by visual analog scale was higher in Hypoxia-exercise and Hypoxia-rest compared with Normoxia-exercise (36 ± 22, 35 ± 25, and 5 ± 6, P < 0.001), while the perception of fatigue was higher in Hypoxia-exercise compared with Hypoxia-rest (60 ± 24, 32 ± 22, and 46 ± 23, in Hypoxia-exercise, Hypoxia-rest, and Normoxia-exercise, respectively; P < 0.01). Despite significant physiological stress during hypoxic exercise and some AMS symptoms induced by normoxic cycling at similar relative workload, exercise does not significantly worsen AMS severity during the first hours of hypoxic exposure at a given arterial oxygen desaturation. Hypoxemia per se appears, therefore, to be the main mechanism underlying AMS, whether or not exercise is performed.