Combined Effects of Spirulina Liquid Extract and Endurance Training on Aerobic Performance and Muscle Metabolism Adaptation in Wistar Rats

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Background: Physical activity, such as running, protects against cardiovascular disease and obesity but can induce oxidative stress. Athletes often consume antioxidants to counteract the overproduction of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species during exercise. Spirulina, particularly its phycocyanin content, activates the Nrf2 pathway, stimulating antioxidant responses. Studies show that phycocyanin enhances antioxidant defenses and reduces inflammation, potentially improving muscle adaptation and recovery. This study evaluates a Spirulina liquid extract (SLE) supplementation during endurance training, hypothesizing that phycocyanin improves oxidant status and performance in soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles. Methods: Three-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a sedentary control group (C), a sedentary group supplemented with SLE (SP), an endurance training group (T), and an endurance training group supplemented with SLE (SPT). After 8 weeks of treadmill training, blood and muscle were collected. Biochemical parameters and gene expression analyses were performed to assess the effects of training and supplementation. Results: The maximal aerobic speed improved significantly in the SPT group. Plasma lipid profiles showed a reduction in triglyceridemia, cholesterolemia, and atherogenic index in the trained groups, especially with SLE supplementation. Muscle malondialdehyde levels decreased in the SPT group compared to T. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of Nrf2 and mitochondrial biogenesis genes in both muscles, with differences between groups for genes related to glycogen storage and β-oxidation. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that SLE supplementation enhanced exercise performance and promoted muscle molecular adaptations. These findings suggest SLE as a promising functional food supplement for athletes, optimizing recovery and performance.