Commentary: Aldehyde dehydrogenase, redox balance and exercise physiology: What is missing?

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Human Physiology
• Genetics

Background:

• Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is vital for detoxifying reactive aldehydes.
• The ALDH2*2 variant, carried by ~8% of the global population, reduces enzyme activity.
• Accumulated toxic aldehydes disrupt cellular metabolism and contribute to degenerative diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physiological consequences of ALDH2*2.
• To highlight the potential impact of ALDH2*2 on exercise performance.
• To identify research gaps concerning ALDH2*2 and physical activity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
• Focus on physiological processes affected by aldehyde accumulation.
• Analysis of ALDH2*2 implications for cellular and organ function.

Main Results:

• ALDH2*2 impairs mitochondrial function, skeletal muscle signaling, cardiovascular/pulmonary function, and bone health.
• Endogenous aldehyde production increases during high-energy demand activities like exercise.
• Impaired aldehyde clearance in ALDH2*2 individuals may negatively affect exercise capacity.

Conclusions:

• ALDH2*2 has widespread physiological effects relevant to exercise.
• Further research is needed to understand the specific impact of ALDH2*2 on exercise performance.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for public health, especially in populations with high ALDH2*2 prevalence.