Scientists discover what sets sports stars apart from ordinary people
The Veillonella bacterium in athletes' microflora converts lactic acid into propionate, boosting physical performance — the discovery could become the basis for a probiotic.
The Veillonella bacterium in athletes' microflora converts lactic acid into propionate, boosting physical performance — the discovery could become the basis for a probiotic.
A special type of bacteria — Veillonella — has been identified in the microflora of elite professional athletes. It is associated with outstanding athletic performance. It cannot be found in people who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
It turns out that the bacteria metabolise lactic acid produced during physical exertion and convert it into propionate — a short-chain fatty acid. The human body then uses this propionate to improve physical performance. Scientists hope to create a probiotic supplement that could improve people's fitness and protect against chronic conditions, including diabetes.
Observations of marathon runners revealed a greater number of Veillonella bacteria compared to ordinary people. Scientists confirmed the link between good physical fitness and this bacterium using rodents. After being given the bacteria, the animals began to run better.
Lactic acid is produced by muscles during intense workouts. The bacteria can use this by-product as their main food source. Scientists also drew attention to the enzymes involved in converting lactic acid into propionate. Their volume increased after physical exertion. It was the production of propionate that lay behind good physical fitness.
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