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Automated Measurement of Pulmonary Emphysema and Small Airway Remodeling in Cigarette Smoke-exposed Mice
Published on: January 16, 2015
Exercise capacity in hamsters with elastase-induced emphysema compared to normal controls.
M Jeffery Mador1, Mohammed Mogri, Michael Lewis
1Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY 14215, United States. mador@buffalo.edu
Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology
|July 13, 2010
Summary
Elastase-induced emphysema (EMP) in hamsters did not reduce exercise capacity or alter muscle function. This study found no significant differences in activity levels or peak oxygen consumption between EMP and control hamsters.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
- Muscle Biology
Background:
- Emphysema, a chronic lung disease, often leads to reduced physical activity and exercise intolerance.
- Understanding the impact of emphysema on exercise capacity and underlying physiological changes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if elastase-induced emphysema (EMP) in hamsters reduces exercise capacity compared to controls (CON).
- To determine if changes in activity levels, muscle function, or structure explain any observed alterations in exercise capacity.
Main Methods:
- Hamsters with EMP and CON hamsters were assessed for peak oxygen consumption and daily activity levels.
- Measurements included inspiratory capacity, in vitro muscle force and fatigability (diaphragm and EDL), and muscle fiber analysis (DIA, EDL, VLA).
Main Results:
- Inspiratory capacity was significantly higher in EMP hamsters (60% increase, p=0.0004).
- No significant differences were found in activity levels or exercise capacity between EMP and CON hamsters.
- Muscle strength, fatigability, fiber proportions, cross-sectional area, and SDH activity were similar in both groups.
Conclusions:
- In this hamster model, elastase-induced emphysema did not impair maximal exercise capacity.
- The development of emphysema did not lead to significant changes in muscle function or structure that would limit exercise performance.
