Exploring the Potential of cfDNA Measurements After an Exhaustive Cycle Ergometer Test as a Marker for Performance Related Parameters.

Purpose:Intensive exercise is known to be accompanied by a rapid release of cell-free DNA (cfDNA). The physiological significance of cfDNA release for performance diagnostics has not been studied. The authors analyzed the release of cfDNA during bicycle exercise and its correlation with physiological parameters. Methods:Eleven male athletes performed an incremental cycling test. Venous blood was collected before and immediately after exercise and after 90 min of recovery. Since the amount of cfDNA is influenced by preanalytical parameters like DNA extraction and quantification method, the authors applied different measurement approaches based on quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. They compared a direct measurement procedure not requiring cfDNA extraction for a short (L1PA290) and a long fragment (L1PA2222) and a procedure for extracted cfDNA for a short (LTR570) and long fragment (LTR5323) with primers targeting the repetitive sequences L1PA2 and LTR5 in both assays, respectively. Results:W...