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The identification of gene clusters that correlate with vascular adaptations after physical deconditioning and exercise training in humans
Author(s) -
Lammers Gerwen,
Duijnhoven Noortje T. L.,
Hoenderop Joost G.,
Horstman Astrid M.H.,
Haan Arnold,
Janssen Thomas W.J.,
Graaf Mark,
Pardoel Elisabeth M.,
Verwiel Eugène T.P.,
Thijssen Dick H.J.,
Hopman Maria T.E.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.26.1_supplement.1134.5
Subject(s) - deconditioning , medicine , cardiology , endurance training , endocrinology , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation
Physical inactivity and exercise training result in opposite adaptations of vascular structure, but the molecular mechanisms behind these adaptations are not completely understood. Therefore, this study examined both vascular characteristics of the superficial femoral artery (using ultrasound) and gene expression levels (from a muscle biopsy). First, we compared able‐bodied controls (n=6) with spinal cord‐injured (SCI) individuals (n=8) to assess the effects of long‐term deconditioning. Able‐bodied controls were also examined before and after short‐term deconditioning using 3 weeks of unilateral limb suspension (ULLS). SCI individuals received 6 weeks functional electrical stimulation (FES) exercise training. Baseline diameter and hyperaemic flow were lower after deconditioning and improved after training, whilst intima‐media thickness/lumen ratio was higher after deconditioning and decreased by training. Gene clusters including the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway (Figure), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1), and extracellular matrix (ECM) components strongly related with these vascular adaptations. Thus, this approach resulted in the identification of genes that may be involved in structural vascular adaptations after physical (in)activity. GL was funded by Gelderland‐Overijssel‐EFRO, NTLvD by the Netherlands Heart Foundation, and JGH by the EURYI award.