Abstract
This study verified the effects of respiratory muscle training (RMT) on hemodynamics, heart rate (HR) variability, and muscle morphology in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus (DM). Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomized into 4 groups and 34 completed the study: i) sham-sedentary (Sham-ST; n=9); ii) sham-RMT (Sham-RMT; n=9); iii) DM-sedentary (DM-ST; n=8); and iv) DM-RMT (DM-RMT; n=8). Hemodynamics were assessed by central cannulation, and R-R intervals were measured by electrocardiogram. In addition, the effects of RMT on the cross-sectional area of the diaphragm, anterior tibial, and soleus muscles were analyzed. The induction of DM by streptozotocin resulted in weight loss, hyperglycemia, reduced blood pressure, and attenuated left ventricular contraction and relaxation (P<0.05). We also observed a decrease in root mean square of successive differences between adjacent RR intervals (RMSSD) index and in the cross-sectional area of the muscles assessed, specifically the diaphragm, soleus, and anterior tibial muscles in diabetic rats (P<0.05). Interestingly, RMT led to an increase in RMSSD in rats with DM (P<0.05). The induction of DM produced profound deleterious changes in the diaphragmatic and peripheral muscles, as well as impairments in cardiovascular hemodynamics and autonomic control. Nevertheless, RMT may beneficially attenuate autonomic changes and improve parasympathetic modulation.
Highlights
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and impairments in the peripheral nervous system are frequently observed in this condition [1]
We observed that DM significantly reduced the heart weight compared to all other groups (Po0.05)
No difference in relation to the other groups was observed in the DM Respiratory muscle training (RMT) group
Summary
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and impairments in the peripheral nervous system are frequently observed in this condition [1]. Sympathetic dysfunction in patients with DM involves denervation (distal) and hyperinervation (proximal) of the left ventricle, causing arrhythmias [3] For this reason, autonomic neuropathy is associated with high morbidity and mortality in individuals with DM [4]. Deleterious muscular changes are present due to diabetic myopathy It includes sarcomere rupture and disturbances in calcium metabolism. It increases intramuscular lipids, proteolysis, and loss of muscle tissue regeneration capacity [5,6,7]. This process results in reduced muscular strength and functional capacity [8]
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