Effect of Local Heat Application on Mitochondrial Related Gene Expression
Advisor Information
Dustin Slivka
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
26-3-2021 12:00 AM
End Date
26-3-2021 12:00 AM
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Mitochondrial health is characterized by the constant cycle of growth (biogenesis) and breakdown (mitophagy) within the mitochondria to allow for optimum function. Previous research suggests a blunted PGC-1α response while exercising within the heat when compared to room temperature. However, the effects of the application of local heat, without the exercise effect (i.e., at rest), on skeletal muscle mitochondrial gene expression are unknown. PURPOSE: To determine the impact of local heat on skeletal muscle gene expression related to mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy. METHODS: Twelve healthy, active individuals will sit in a semi-reclined resting position with a heated thermal wrap on the experimental limb and a neutral temperature wrap on the control limb (randomized). Skin temperature, blood flow, intramuscular temperature, and a Bergström biopsy will be obtained from each leg following the 4-hour intervention. IMPLICATIONS: Preliminary data suggests that local heat application during endurance exercise has no major effect on gene expression related to mitochondrial development. However, this study will help interpret previous research (i.e., environmental and local heat during exercise) by removing the exercise effect. Not only does the study allow for better interpretation of local heat, it also enhances our understanding of mitochondrial development in human skeletal muscle with the potential for therapeutic applications.
Effect of Local Heat Application on Mitochondrial Related Gene Expression
BACKGROUND: Mitochondrial health is characterized by the constant cycle of growth (biogenesis) and breakdown (mitophagy) within the mitochondria to allow for optimum function. Previous research suggests a blunted PGC-1α response while exercising within the heat when compared to room temperature. However, the effects of the application of local heat, without the exercise effect (i.e., at rest), on skeletal muscle mitochondrial gene expression are unknown. PURPOSE: To determine the impact of local heat on skeletal muscle gene expression related to mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy. METHODS: Twelve healthy, active individuals will sit in a semi-reclined resting position with a heated thermal wrap on the experimental limb and a neutral temperature wrap on the control limb (randomized). Skin temperature, blood flow, intramuscular temperature, and a Bergström biopsy will be obtained from each leg following the 4-hour intervention. IMPLICATIONS: Preliminary data suggests that local heat application during endurance exercise has no major effect on gene expression related to mitochondrial development. However, this study will help interpret previous research (i.e., environmental and local heat during exercise) by removing the exercise effect. Not only does the study allow for better interpretation of local heat, it also enhances our understanding of mitochondrial development in human skeletal muscle with the potential for therapeutic applications.