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Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor and interleukin-6 response to high-volume mechanically demanding exercise
Vaidas Verbickas1, Sigitas Kamandulis1, Audrius Snieckus1
1Institute of Sports Science and Innovation, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania, Sporto 6, LT 44221, Kaunas, Lithuania.
Introduction:
The aim of this study was to follow circulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in response to severe muscle-damaging exercise.
Methods:
Young healthy men (N = 10) performed a bout of mechanically demanding stretch-shortening cycle exercise consisting of 200 drop jumps. Voluntary and electrically induced knee extension torque, serum BDNF levels, and IL-6 levels were measured before and for up to 7 days after exercise.
Results:
Muscle force decreased by up to 40% and did not recover by 24 hours after exercise. Serum BDNF was decreased 1 hour and 24 hours after exercise, whereas IL-6 increased immediately and 1 hour after but recovered to baseline by 24 hours after exercise. IL-6 and 100-Hz stimulation torque were correlated (r = -0.64, P < 0.05) 24 hours after exercise.
Discussion:
In response to acute, severe muscle-damaging exercise, serum BDNF levels decrease, whereas IL-6 levels increase and are associated with peripheral fatigue. Muscle Nerve 57: E46-E51, 2018.
