Influence of vigorous physical activity and metabolic parameters on structure and function of the cardiovascular system in young athletes - the MuCAYAplus - Study (Munich Cardiovascular Adaptation in Young Athletes Study)

• Applicants: Dr. Hande Hofmann; Dr. Thorsten Schulz
• Subject Area: Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ; Nutritional Sciences ; Cardiology, Angiology
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 516547656

Relationships between cardiovascular, biochemical and metabolic parameters, athletic training and the body composition of young competitive athletes have never been investigated, either individually or in combination, for the relationships between changes in clinically significant cardiovascular parameters. The aim of the present study is to close this gap within the framework of a longitudinal study designed to last 3 years. Sport and physical activity have a direct effect on cardiac parameters. Moderate sporting activity is beneficial to the long-term health of the cardiovascular system. The opposite effects are reported for intensive training. The hormones leptin and triiodothyronine also influence cardiovascular risk and are affected in their regulatory secretion by physical exertion. There are no studies for young athletes that examine cardiovascular changes and hormonal influences together and relate them to each other and to the body composition and eating behavior of the athletes. For this purpose, the SARS-CoV2 antibody status and the history of a Covid-19 infection are currently being collected. Here, too, there are still no findings on the effect of a covid-19 infection on the cardiovascular system in athletically active adolescents.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Canada, United Kingdom
• Co-Investigator: Professorin Dr. Renate Oberhoffer-Fritz
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Dr. Luc Mertens; Dr. Guido Pieles