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Aerobic performance and antioxidant protection in runners
S Falone1, A Mirabilio, A Passerini
1University G. d'Annunzio, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti, Italy.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|August 18, 2009
Summary
Endurance runners with higher aerobic capacity show better antioxidant status, indicating enhanced protection against exercise-induced oxidative stress. This suggests a link between fitness and the body's ability to manage reactive oxygen species.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Sports Science
Background:
- Muscular activity increases reactive oxygen species (ROS), potentially disrupting cellular redox balance.
- Understanding the relationship between aerobic performance and oxidative stress markers is crucial for athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate correlations between aerobic performance factors and serum oxidative stress markers in endurance runners.
- To assess systemic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl content (PCC), and total antioxidant status (TAS).
Main Methods:
- Recruited 35 male endurance runners for a modified Bruce-based maximal graded exercise test.
- Measured serum levels of MDA, PCC, and TAS.
- Analyzed correlations between performance indicators and oxidative stress markers.
Main Results:
- Significant negative associations found between Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) and Protein Carbonyl Content (PCC) (r=-0.7, p<0.001).
- TAS also negatively correlated with total protein (r=-0.4, p=0.005).
- Positive association observed between total protein and PCC (r=0.4, p=0.012).
Conclusions:
- Higher aerobic capacity is linked to improved antioxidant defenses, offering protection against exercise-induced oxidative stress.
- Biochemical adaptations in athletes with high aerobic capacity may enhance their resilience to oxidative challenges from training and intense exercise.
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