The activity and adaptation of xanthine oxidase in response to high-intensity swimming exercise

Dolby, Melissa (2019). The activity and adaptation of xanthine oxidase in response to high-intensity swimming exercise. University of Birmingham. M.Sc.

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Abstract

Xanthine Oxidase (XO) is an enzyme that catalyses a reaction to form uric acid. Following high-intensity, hypoxic exercise it produces superoxide radicals upon oxygen reperfusion. The present study investigated the activity and adaptation of XO in response to four swimming sessions, consisting of four high-intensity 50m bouts (four minutes rest), in two groups of young, healthy participants (n=7 competitively trained, n=7 not swimming trained). Physical fitness, VO2max (ml/kg/min), was not significantly different between groups (p = .121). Swimming times (seconds) were significantly and consistently faster in the trained group (p ≤ .003), reflecting group differences in swimming experience. Blood samples were taken pre- and post-intervention, measuring antioxidant capacity and XO protein content, and during swimming sessions measuring XO activity.

XO activity was not significantly different between groups. In trained participants, XO protein content was significantly less (P= .036) pre-intervention (M=.763) and significantly (p = .017) increased from pre-to- post intervention. Non-trained participants showed no significant change in XO protein content pre-to-post intervention. Antioxidant capacity demonstrated an almost identical pattern to XO protein content.

Results suggest training influences XO protein expression, which affects antioxidant capacity, independent of XO activity. Findings could have beneficial application for health however, further research is required.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Sc.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Sc.

Supervisor(s):