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. 2010 Oct-Dec;22(5-6):383-6.
doi: 10.3275/6734. Epub 2009 Dec 14.

Plasma nitrite response in older women to a physical function test

Devon A Dobrosielski  1 , Tennille Presley, Andreas Perlegas, Anthony P Marsh, Daniel Kim-Shapiro, W Jack Rejeski
Affiliations

Plasma nitrite response in older women to a physical function test

Devon A Dobrosielski et al. Aging Clin Exp Res. 2010 Oct-Dec.

Abstract

Background and aims: Nitric oxide (NO) may play a critical role in facilitating the delivery of blood to active skeletal muscle, ultimately impacting functional health in older adults. Plasma nitrite is a useful marker of vascular NO bioavailability. The aim of the current investigation was to examine the effect of a widely used physical function test on plasma nitrite concentrations in older adults.

Methods: Venous blood was drawn before, immediately following, and 10 minutes following the completion of a 400-m walk test. Blood samples were added to heparin and frozen for subsequent analysis of nitrite levels using chemiluminescence.

Results: Twenty six (79±4 yrs) women participated in this study. Plasma nitrite levels decreased approximately 22% from baseline following a 400-m walk. Percent change in plasma nitrite was related to walking speed (r=-0.550, p=0.004).

Conclusions: These data suggest an alteration in plasma nitrite concentration following a functional test which may impact functional health.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The time course for change in plasma nitrite; prior to (129±16 nM), immediately following (102±13 nM) and 10 minutes following (100±12 nM) the 400-m walk. Data presented as mean±SEM.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Individual changes in plasma nitrite following a 400-m walk.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
The relationship between change in plasma nitrite concentration following the 400-m walk and walking speed (r=−0.550, p=0.004).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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