Plasma nitrite/nitrate and erythropoietin levels in cross-country skiers during altitude training

Schena, F; Cuzzolin, L; Rossi, L; Pasetto, M; Benoni, G

HERO ID

1656011

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2002

Language

English

PMID

12032406

HERO ID 1656011
In Press No
Year 2002
Title Plasma nitrite/nitrate and erythropoietin levels in cross-country skiers during altitude training
Authors Schena, F; Cuzzolin, L; Rossi, L; Pasetto, M; Benoni, G
Journal Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
Volume 42
Issue 2
Page Numbers 129-134
Abstract <strong>BACKGROUND: </strong>The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of training at altitude on plasma nitrite/nitrate and erythropoietin levels since previously it has been reported an interaction of the NO/cGMP system in erythropoietin production.<br /><br /><strong>METHODS: </strong>Nine physically trained cross-country male skiers, usually living at 800-1200 m altitude, underwent 6 days of intensive training at a moderate altitude of 3100 m preceeded by 2 days of acclimatisation. Six team-managers, selected as controls, did not undergo any regular physical activity in the last 5 years and during the altitude period. Haematological parameters, erythropoietin and nitrite/nitrate were measured prior to reach the place at altitude, at the end of the period at moderate altitude and 7 days after returning at home.<br /><br /><strong>RESULTS: </strong>Haematocrit significantly increased in controls after 8 days at altitude. Erythropoietin levels significantly increased after the intensive altitude training only in trained subjects (13.1+/-1.7 vs 6.7+/-1.7 mU x ml-1, p&lt;0.001). Nitrite/nitrate baseline values were significantly higher in trained subjects compared to untrained (49.9+/-17.9 vs 25.4+/-2.8 micromol x l(-1), p&lt;0.01); the altitude period significantly increased nitrite/nitrate levels, in untrained subjects, to the same values observed in trained subjects under control conditions (47.0+/-10.3 micromol x l(-1)).<br /><br /><strong>CONCLUSIONS: </strong>In our experimental conditions we demonstrated the influence of hypoxia on Epo levels in athletes sustaining a short-term training and the role of a regular physical activity (partly independent from altitude hypoxia) on NO production.
Pmid 12032406
Wosid WOS:000176950800001
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Comments Source: Web of Science WOS:000176950800001
Is Public Yes
Language Text English
Keyword nitric oxide; erythropoiesis; anoxia; exercise