Moderate-intensity physical activity reduces systemic inflammation and maintains cardiorespiratory function following chronic particulate matter exposure in rats.

Aims: The purpose of the current study is to 1) examine the beneficial effects of moderate levels of physical activity (PA) on functional and biochemical markers of the cardiorespiratory system, 2) establish the detrimental effects of a single, daily particulate matter (PM) exposure event on cardiorespiratory function and 3) determine if exercising during daily PM exposure increases the deleterious effects caused by PM exposure due to increased inhalation of particulates on cardiorespiratory function.

Methods: Four groups of 16 rats were used: control (CON), PA, PM exposed and PA combined with PM exposure (PA + PM). Animals were purchased at 4 weeks old.

Moderate intensity physical activity prevents increased blood glucose concentrations, fat pad deposition and cardiac action potential prolongation following diet-induced obesity in a juvenile-adolescent rat model.

Background: Both obesity and a lack of physical activity have been associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The incidence of obesity is increasing, especially in juvenile-adolescents. While there is limited research examining the chronic effects of obesity in adolescent humans and animal models of this condition, little is also known concerning how moderate physical activity might prevent or attenuate secondary cardiovascular complications induced by obesity during adolescence.