15 generations of untrained jocks, couch potatoes show big physiological adaptations

Exercise research usually keys on training effects, but UCSD physiologists studied underlying genetic mechanisms through 15 generations of untrained rats from a single strain. Large physiological adaptations resulted in the oxygen delivery system, supporting the theory that over time animal systems will maximize efficiency. The key result showed the oxygen system maximization was independent of training or environment. Human benefits could come from learning the prompts to exercise and mechanisms of system improvement.

"VO2max and muscle O2 transport in rats continue to diverge with further selective breeding for endurance running." Richard A. Howlett, University of California, San Diego. 936.2.

"Cardiovascular differences between rats selectively bred for endurance running capacity." Scott David Kirkton, UCSD, 936.3. "

15 generations of selective breeding for endurance running capacity in rats is associated with enhanced lung structure and function not seen at generation 7." Patrick G. Giuliano (this paper only), UCSD. 936.1.

Others involved in all three papers: Peter D. Wagner, Harrieth E. Wagner, UCSD Department of Medicine, Division of Physiology (as are Howlett, Kirkton and Giuliano); Norberto C. Gonzalez, University of Kansas Medical Center, Dept. of Molecular and Integrative Physiology; Steven L. Britton and Lauren G. Koch, University of Michigan Dept. of Physical Medicine and & Rehabilitation.

Alcoholism reduces male heart's ability to synthesize protein; possible therapy target?

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine's Cellular and Molecular Physiology Depa
'"/>


4-Apr-2005