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Tendon structural adaptations to load exercise are inhibited by anabolic androgenic steroids
Author(s) -
Marqueti R. C.,
Paulino M. G.,
Fernandes M. N.,
Oliveira E. M.,
SelistredeAraujo H. S.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
scandinavian journal of medicine and science in sports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.575
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1600-0838
pISSN - 0905-7188
DOI - 10.1111/sms.12135
Subject(s) - anabolic androgenic steroids , tendon , medicine , anatomy , anabolism , hydroxyproline , adipose tissue , football players , achilles tendon , endocrinology , chemistry , football , political science , law
The present study investigated the structural changes in the rat calcaneal tendon ( CT ), superficial flexor tendon ( SFT ), and deep flexor tendon ( DFT ) in response to jump exercises and anabolic androgenic steroids ( AAS ). Animals were divided into four groups: sedentary, trained, AAS ‐treated sedentary rats, and AAS ‐treated trained animals. Training increased the volume density (Vv%) of blood vessels in all regions of the CT and DFT , cell Vv% in the peritendinous sheath of the proximal and distal regions of the SFT and proximal region of DFT , and cell Vv% in the tendon proper of the proximal and distal regions of the SFT and DFT . The combination of AAS and load exercises showed little increased blood vessel Vv% at the proximal region of the CT , intermediate region of the SFT , and all regions of the DFT as opposed to an increase in adipose cell Vv% in the CT proximal region. The AAS reduced the levels of hydroxyproline in the proximal region of the DFT and in the distal region of the STF . In conclusion, exercise promoted benefits to the adaptation of the tendons to overload. These effects were absent when load exercise was combined with AAS . The abusive consumption of AAS contributes to tendon inertness and rigidity, and increases the potential risk of injury.