Kinetics of Sα-Klotho protein after plyometric exercise in physically active young men

Abstract

Introduction: High soluble-fraction levels of Alpha-Klotho have been related with anti-inflammatory effects on the organism, decreased degenerative processes, and longevity[1-2]. In addition, SαKl levels increase immediately after an acute endurance exercise that does not occur after plyometric exercise[3]. Nevertheless, there is no literature to date regarding the behavior of the protein during the recovery period following plyometric exercise. Due to its well-known antiinflammatory response, we hypothesized that a SαKl levels increment could happen during the hours following a plyometric exercise session. Our main objective was to analyze the acute effect of a single plyometric exercise bout on SαKl and its kinetics during the 72 following hours. Method: 39 physically-active males (aged=18-35; VO2max=55.6±5.19 ml/kg/min) underwent one eccentric-focused plyometric session. Their serum SαKL and Creatine-Phosphokinase (CPK) levels were measured before (PRE) and immediately after (POST) the session, as well as 24, 48 and 72 hours later. Results: We found overall significant differences in the SαKl kinetics (F=4.182; p=0.011). SαKl increased significantly between POST and 24h (p=0.041; d=0.499) and between POST and 48h (p=0.007; d=0.873). Statistically significant differences were also observed in the CPK measures through the different time intervals (F=22.591; p=0.001). Discussion: There are some studies focusing on the SαKl response to aerobic or anaerobic exercise[1, 4], but to the best of our knowledge this is the first study analyzing the acute effect of a specific plyometric exercise protocol on SαKl secretion during 72h. SαKl levels presented a late response after the exercise session, remaining elevated from 24h to 72h post exercise. Furthermore, SαKl followed similar kinetics to CPK, a muscle damage and inflammation biomarker. In conclusion, we suggest that Klotho protein could play an anti-inflammatory role after plyometric exercise. And although more studies are needed, in this regard, the finding could have a relevant practical implication both in the clinic and in sport.