Healthy Adult ParticipantsNCT07613619
Multilevel Exercise Response in Rowers
An observational study of Healthy Adult Participants, run by Poznan University of Physical Education.
Trial summary
This observational study aims to evaluate multilevel physiological, molecular, metabolic, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to rowing-specific exercise in elite rowers. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 19 to 24 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Healthy Adult Participants
- What is being tested?
- 2000-m rowing ergometer test and 6000-m rowing ergometer test
- How many people
- 30 participants
- Where
- No sites listed yet
- Study dates
- 17 May 2026to 30 Jan 2027
- How long will I take part?
- 6 Months
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 19 to 24 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Study population: The study population will consist of male and female competitive rowers aged 19-24 years who are members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team. Participants will be recruited from athletes engaged in regular high-performance rowing training and who participate in standardized rowing ergometer testing as part of routine performance monitoring across different phases of the training season. All participants will be medically cleared for maximal exercise testing and will represent elite-level endurance athletes.
Who may be able to join
- Male and female members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team.
- Age between 19 and 24 years.
- Regular participation in structured rowing training.
- Medical clearance for participation in maximal exercise testing.
- Ability and willingness to provide written informed consent.
Who cannot join
- Lack of consent for blood sampling or study participation.
- Current injury or health condition contraindicating maximal exercise.
- Acute infection, fever, or inflammatory condition at the time of testing.
- Use of anti-inflammatory medications.
- Use of performance-enhancing substances.
- Use of dietary supplements within 3 months before study participation.
- Any medical contraindications identified by the study physician.
Trial locations and contacts
No sites are listed yet. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
About this study
Official title: Multilevel Assessment of Physiological, Molecular, Metabolic, Intestinal, and Psychophysiological Responses to Rowing Ergometer Exercise in Competitive Rowers
This observational study aims to evaluate multilevel physiological, molecular, metabolic, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to rowing-specific exercise in elite rowers. The study is designed to investigate how maximal and prolonged rowing ergometer exercise influences integrated adaptive mechanisms related to mitochondrial function, metabolic regulation, intestinal permeability, immune activation, DNA damage response, and psychological status.
Thirty members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team, aged 19-24 years, will participate in the study during two different training periods. During the competitive phase, participants will perform a 2000-m maximal rowing ergometer test, whereas during the preparatory phase they will complete a 6000-m rowing ergometer test. Blood samples and physiological measurements will be collected before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery.
The study will assess gene expression, circulating biomarkers, flow cytometry parameters, blood morphology, lactate concentration, continuous glucose monitoring data, wearable metabolic sensor measurements, nutritional status, and psychological responses. The primary objective is to identify integrated biomarkers reflecting exercise load, recovery dynamics, and adaptive capacity in highly trained athletes. The study also aims to improve understanding of the interaction between metabolic, mitochondrial, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to intensive exercise in rowing.
Read the detailed description
This study is designed to investigate integrated physiological, molecular, metabolic, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to rowing-specific exercise in elite athletes. The study focuses on identifying biomarkers associated with exercise load, early recovery, and adaptive capacity in competitive rowers exposed to maximal and prolonged ergometer exercise.
Modern exercise physiology indicates that the response to intensive physical effort involves coordinated interactions between metabolic, mitochondrial, immune, neuroendocrine, and intestinal regulatory systems. High-intensity rowing exercise induces substantial metabolic stress, activation of mitochondrial signaling pathways, inflammatory and stress-related responses, and transient disturbances in intestinal barrier integrity. In addition, psychological factors, including mood state and pre-competition anxiety, may modulate physiological responses to exercise and recovery processes. However, previous studies have typically evaluated isolated physiological or biochemical markers without integrating molecular, cellular, and psychophysiological responses within a rowing-specific exercise model.
The study will include 30 competitive rowers, members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team, aged 19 to 24 years, of both sexes. Assessments will be performed during two distinct phases of the annual training cycle. During the competitive phase (May-June 2026), participants will complete a 2000-m maximal rowing ergometer test. During the preparatory phase (November 2026), participants will perform a 6000-m rowing ergometer test. Both exercise protocols are routinely used within elite rowing training and performance monitoring.
Blood samples and physiological measurements will be collected at three time points during each testing session: before exercise (baseline), immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery. Venous blood samples will be used for hematological, biochemical, molecular, and flow cytometric analyses. Capillary blood samples will be collected for lactate assessment.
The study includes several integrated research modules:
The metabolic and adaptive response module will evaluate exercise-induced mitochondrial and metabolic signaling through analysis of gene expression related to mitochondrial biogenesis and energy regulation, including PPARGC1A, TFAM, PRKAA1, and SOD2. Circulating biomarkers associated with metabolic stress and adaptive signaling, including GDF15, apelin, irisin, myonectin, HSP70, and BDNF, will also be assessed. Psychological questionnaires evaluating mood state, perceived recovery, and competitive anxiety will be administered to characterize psychophysiological status.
The muscle-liver axis module will assess hormonal and metabolic regulation associated with glucose homeostasis and exercise adaptation. Measurements will include insulin, glucagon, FGF21, fetuin-A, IL-6, and myoglobin concentrations, together with expression of genes related to IL-6 signaling, gluconeogenesis, and glucose transport, including STAT3, SOCS3, PCK1, and SLC2A4 (GLUT4). Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and wearable metabolic monitoring systems will be used to evaluate glucose dynamics, lactate responses, hydration status, heart rate, and sodium loss during exercise and recovery.
The intestinal permeability and exercise-induced endotoxemia module will investigate exercise-associated disruption of intestinal barrier integrity and activation of innate immune responses. The study will assess circulating markers of endotoxemia and immune activation, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), soluble CD14, soluble TLR2, and soluble TLR4. Flow cytometry will be used to characterize monocyte phenotypes and receptor expression (CD45, CD14, CD16, TLR2, TLR4), while RT-qPCR analyses will evaluate expression of TLR2 and TLR4 genes.
The DNA damage response module will evaluate transient exercise-induced DNA damage and activation of cellular repair mechanisms. Biomarkers of oxidative DNA damage and DNA repair signaling, including 8-OHdG/8-oxo-dG, nucleosomes, HMGB1, AP sites, APE1/APEX1, and poly(ADP-ribose), will be analyzed together with expression of genes involved in DNA damage response and repair pathways, including CDKN1A, GADD45A, APEX1, and PARP1.
Body composition analysis will be performed using the TANITA MC-780MA analyzer. Nutritional intake will be evaluated using dietary assessment questionnaires and food records to support interpretation of metabolic and physiological responses.
All laboratory analyses will be performed according to standardized laboratory procedures and quality-control protocols. Blood morphology analyses will be conducted immediately after collection, while serum and plasma samples will be processed, centrifuged, and stored at -80°C until analysis. Molecular and flow cytometry analyses will be performed in specialized laboratory facilities using validated methods and equipment.
The study is observational in nature and does not involve therapeutic intervention, pharmacological treatment, or experimental supplementation. All exercise procedures represent standard performance tests routinely used in elite rowing training. The project aims to improve understanding of integrated exercise physiology in high-performance athletes and to support development of personalized monitoring strategies for training optimization, recovery management, and early detection of excessive physiological strain.
- Conditions
- Healthy Adult Participants
- Being tested
- 2000-m rowing ergometer test, 6000-m rowing ergometer test
- Keywords
- Rowing, Exercise physiology, Mitochondrial function, Intestinal permeability, DNA damage response, Psychophysiology, Elite athletes
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
2000-m rowing ergometer testOther
A standardized maximal rowing ergometer exercise test performed over a distance of 2000 meters during the competitive phase of the training season to evaluate acute physiological and molecular responses to high-intensity exercise.
6000-m rowing ergometer testOther
A standardized prolonged rowing ergometer exercise test performed over a distance of 6000 meters during the preparatory phase of the training season to evaluate physiological and molecular responses to prolonged submaximal exercise.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Elite male rowers | Male elite rowers aged 19-24 years performing standardized 2000-m and 6000-m rowing ergometer tests during two training phases. Exercise-related biological and psychophysiological responses will be assessed before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery. Receives: Other: 2000-m rowing ergometer test; Other: 6000-m rowing ergometer test | |
| Elite female rowers | Female elite rowers aged 19-24 years performing standardized 2000-m and 6000-m rowing ergometer tests during two training phases. Exercise-related biological and psychophysiological responses will be assessed before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery. Receives: Other: 2000-m rowing ergometer test; Other: 6000-m rowing ergometer test |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Changes from baseline in PPARGC1A (PGC-1α) gene expression
Marker of mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolic adaptation to exercise.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in TFAM gene expression.
Marker of mitochondrial DNA maintenance and transcription.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in PRKAA1 (AMPKα1) gene expression.
Marker of cellular energy sensing and metabolic stress response
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in SOD2 gene expression.
Marker of mitochondrial antioxidant defense.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) concentration
Marker of mitochondrial and metabolic stress
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum apelin concentration
Exercise-related myokine associated with metabolic regulation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) concentration
Marker of cellular stress response
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration
Marker of neuroplasticity and exercise-related neuroregulation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum myonectin (CTRP15) concentration
Marker of lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum insulin concentration
Marker of glucose regulation and metabolic adaptation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum glucagon concentration
Marker of hepatic glucose production and gluconeogenesis.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum fetuin-A concentration
Marker of insulin sensitivity and hepatic metabolic response.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) concentration
Marker of metabolic adaptation and energy homeostasis
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration
Exercise-induced myokine involved in muscle-liver signaling.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum myoglobin concentration
Marker of muscle stress and exercise-induced muscle response.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in STAT3 gene expression.
Marker of IL-6 signaling pathway activation
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in SOCS3 gene expression.
Marker of negative feedback regulation of inflammatory signaling.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in PCK1 gene expression.
Marker of gluconeogenesis regulation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in SLC2A4 (GLUT4) gene expression.
Marker of skeletal muscle glucose transport
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentration
Marker of exercise-induced endotoxemia.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) concentration
Marker of endotoxin transport and immune activation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum soluble CD14 (sCD14) concentration
Marker of monocyte activation and endotoxin recognition
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum soluble toll-like receptor 4 (sTLR4) concentration
Marker of innate immune receptor activation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum soluble toll-like receptor 2 (sTLR2) concentration
Marker of innate immune response to bacterial components.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in TLR4 gene expression.
Marker of endotoxin-induced inflammatory signaling
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in TLR2 gene expression.
Marker of innate immune activation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in TLR4-positive monocyte expression.
Marker of monocyte receptor sensitivity to endotoxins.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in TLR2-positive monocyte expression
Marker of innate immune receptor activation on monocytes.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) concentration
Marker of oxidative DNA damage.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum nucleosome concentration
Marker of chromatin fragmentation and cellular stress.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in serum high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) concentration
Marker of cellular stress and inflammatory signaling.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in number of apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites
Marker of DNA strand damage and base excision repair activity.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in APE1/APEX1 protein concentration
Marker of DNA repair pathway activation.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) concentration
Marker of PARP activation and DNA repair response
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in CDKN1A (p21) gene expression.
Marker of cell cycle arrest and DNA damage response.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in GADD45A gene expression.
Marker of genomic stress response.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in APEX1 gene expression.
Marker of DNA base excision repair regulation
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in PARP1 gene expression.
Marker of DNA damage sensing and repair signaling.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Secondary outcomes (19)
Changes from baseline in blood lactate concentration.
Marker of exercise intensity and metabolic stress.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in hemoglobin concentration
Assessment of exercise-induced changes in hemoglobin concentration.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in hematocrit value
Assessment of exercise-induced changes in hematocrit value.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in red blood cell count
Assessment of exercise-induced changes in red blood cell count.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)
Assessment of exercise-induced changes in the average hemoglobin concentration within erythrocytes.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
Assessment of exercise-induced changes in the average volume of circulating erythrocytes.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)
Assessment of exercise-induced changes in the average hemoglobin content per erythrocyte.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in white blood cell count
Assessment of exercise-induced immune and inflammatory responses based on leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts.
Measured: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Profile of Mood States (POMS) score.
Assessment using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire. Total scores range from 0 to 260, with higher scores indicating greater mood disturbance and psychological distress.
Measured: Before exercise.
Sport Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) score.
Assessment using the Sport Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT). Total scores range from 10 to 30, with higher scores indicating greater trait competitive anxiety.
Measured: Before exercise.
Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) score.
Assessment using the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2). Total scores range from 27 to 108, with higher scores indicating greater pre-competition anxiety symptoms and self-confidence levels. The questionnaire assesses cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety, and self-confidence.
Measured: Before exercise.
Hooper Index score.
Assessment using the Hooper Index questionnaire, calculated as the sum of ratings for fatigue, stress, delayed-onset muscle soreness, and sleep quality. Total scores range from 4 to 28, with higher scores indicating poorer recovery status and greater overall training strain.
Measured: Before exercise.
Change from baseline in mean interstitial glucose concentration
Mean interstitial glucose concentration (mg/dL) recorded using a continuous glucose monitoring system during the exercise session and throughout the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period. CGM-derived glucose values will be averaged across each assessment period and compared with pre-exercise baseline values.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline assessment through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in mean heart rate
Mean heart rate (beats per minute, bpm) continuously recorded using the ONAS10 wearable sensor during exercise and throughout the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in estimated lactate concentration
Estimated lactate concentration (mmol/L) continuously derived from sweat biomarker analysis using the ONAS10 wearable microfluidic biosensor during exercise and throughout the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in dehydration rate
Dehydration rate (%) estimated from sweat biomarker analysis using the ONAS10 wearable microfluidic biosensor during exercise and the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in sweat sodium concentration
Sweat sodium concentration (mg/L or mmol/L) continuously measured using the ONAS10 wearable microfluidic biosensor during exercise and throughout the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in estimated sodium loss
Estimated sodium loss (mg) derived from sweat analysis using the ONAS10 wearable microfluidic biosensor during exercise and the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in sweat rate
Sweat rate (mL/h) continuously estimated using the ONAS10 wearable microfluidic biosensor during exercise and throughout the 1-hour post-exercise recovery period.
Measured: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted29 May 2026
- Study start17 May 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion30 Nov 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Jan 2027 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Healthy Adult ParticipantsStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Enrolment
- 30 participants (estimated)
- Target duration
- 6 Months
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Poznan University of Physical Education
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Anna Skarpańska-Stejborn, Professor, Principal investigator, Poznan University of Physical Education, Gorzów Wielkopolski; Faculty of Sport Sciences in Gorzów Wielkopolski; Department of Biological Sciences,
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07613619
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Rowers 2026
- Status last verified
- May 2026
- First submitted
- 15 May 2026
- Last updated
- 29 May 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided: Individual participant data sharing has not yet been determined. Future sharing of de-identified data will depend on institutional policies, ethical considerations, participant consent, and planned secondary analyses.
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 29 May 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Multilevel Assessment of Physiological, Molecular, Metabolic, Intestinal, and Psychophysiological Responses to Rowing Ergometer Exercise in Competitive Rowers
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07613619
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Rowers 2026
- Conditions
- Healthy Adult Participants
- Keywords
- Rowing, Exercise physiology, Mitochondrial function, Intestinal permeability, DNA damage response, Psychophysiology, Elite athletes
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 30 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Poznan University of Physical EducationUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 17 May 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 30 Nov 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Jan 2027 (estimated)
- First posted
- 29 May 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This observational study aims to evaluate multilevel physiological, molecular, metabolic, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to rowing-specific exercise in elite rowers. The study is designed to investigate how maximal and prolonged rowing ergometer exercise influences integrated adaptive mechanisms related to mitochondrial function, metabolic regulation, intestinal permeability, immune activation, DNA damage response, and psychological status.
Thirty members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team, aged 19-24 years, will participate in the study during two different training periods. During the competitive phase, participants will perform a 2000-m maximal rowing ergometer test, whereas during the preparatory phase they will complete a 6000-m rowing ergometer test. Blood samples and physiological measurements will be collected before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery.
The study will assess gene expression, circulating biomarkers, flow cytometry parameters, blood morphology, lactate concentration, continuous glucose monitoring data, wearable metabolic sensor measurements, nutritional status, and psychological responses. The primary objective is to identify integrated biomarkers reflecting exercise load, recovery dynamics, and adaptive capacity in highly trained athletes. The study also aims to improve understanding of the interaction between metabolic, mitochondrial, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to intensive exercise in rowing.
Detailed description
This study is designed to investigate integrated physiological, molecular, metabolic, intestinal, immunological, and psychophysiological responses to rowing-specific exercise in elite athletes. The study focuses on identifying biomarkers associated with exercise load, early recovery, and adaptive capacity in competitive rowers exposed to maximal and prolonged ergometer exercise.
Modern exercise physiology indicates that the response to intensive physical effort involves coordinated interactions between metabolic, mitochondrial, immune, neuroendocrine, and intestinal regulatory systems. High-intensity rowing exercise induces substantial metabolic stress, activation of mitochondrial signaling pathways, inflammatory and stress-related responses, and transient disturbances in intestinal barrier integrity. In addition, psychological factors, including mood state and pre-competition anxiety, may modulate physiological responses to exercise and recovery processes. However, previous studies have typically evaluated isolated physiological or biochemical markers without integrating molecular, cellular, and psychophysiological responses within a rowing-specific exercise model.
The study will include 30 competitive rowers, members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team, aged 19 to 24 years, of both sexes. Assessments will be performed during two distinct phases of the annual training cycle. During the competitive phase (May-June 2026), participants will complete a 2000-m maximal rowing ergometer test. During the preparatory phase (November 2026), participants will perform a 6000-m rowing ergometer test. Both exercise protocols are routinely used within elite rowing training and performance monitoring.
Blood samples and physiological measurements will be collected at three time points during each testing session: before exercise (baseline), immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery. Venous blood samples will be used for hematological, biochemical, molecular, and flow cytometric analyses. Capillary blood samples will be collected for lactate assessment.
The study includes several integrated research modules:
The metabolic and adaptive response module will evaluate exercise-induced mitochondrial and metabolic signaling through analysis of gene expression related to mitochondrial biogenesis and energy regulation, including PPARGC1A, TFAM, PRKAA1, and SOD2. Circulating biomarkers associated with metabolic stress and adaptive signaling, including GDF15, apelin, irisin, myonectin, HSP70, and BDNF, will also be assessed. Psychological questionnaires evaluating mood state, perceived recovery, and competitive anxiety will be administered to characterize psychophysiological status.
The muscle-liver axis module will assess hormonal and metabolic regulation associated with glucose homeostasis and exercise adaptation. Measurements will include insulin, glucagon, FGF21, fetuin-A, IL-6, and myoglobin concentrations, together with expression of genes related to IL-6 signaling, gluconeogenesis, and glucose transport, including STAT3, SOCS3, PCK1, and SLC2A4 (GLUT4). Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and wearable metabolic monitoring systems will be used to evaluate glucose dynamics, lactate responses, hydration status, heart rate, and sodium loss during exercise and recovery.
The intestinal permeability and exercise-induced endotoxemia module will investigate exercise-associated disruption of intestinal barrier integrity and activation of innate immune responses. The study will assess circulating markers of endotoxemia and immune activation, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), soluble CD14, soluble TLR2, and soluble TLR4. Flow cytometry will be used to characterize monocyte phenotypes and receptor expression (CD45, CD14, CD16, TLR2, TLR4), while RT-qPCR analyses will evaluate expression of TLR2 and TLR4 genes.
The DNA damage response module will evaluate transient exercise-induced DNA damage and activation of cellular repair mechanisms. Biomarkers of oxidative DNA damage and DNA repair signaling, including 8-OHdG/8-oxo-dG, nucleosomes, HMGB1, AP sites, APE1/APEX1, and poly(ADP-ribose), will be analyzed together with expression of genes involved in DNA damage response and repair pathways, including CDKN1A, GADD45A, APEX1, and PARP1.
Body composition analysis will be performed using the TANITA MC-780MA analyzer. Nutritional intake will be evaluated using dietary assessment questionnaires and food records to support interpretation of metabolic and physiological responses.
All laboratory analyses will be performed according to standardized laboratory procedures and quality-control protocols. Blood morphology analyses will be conducted immediately after collection, while serum and plasma samples will be processed, centrifuged, and stored at -80°C until analysis. Molecular and flow cytometry analyses will be performed in specialized laboratory facilities using validated methods and equipment.
The study is observational in nature and does not involve therapeutic intervention, pharmacological treatment, or experimental supplementation. All exercise procedures represent standard performance tests routinely used in elite rowing training. The project aims to improve understanding of integrated exercise physiology in high-performance athletes and to support development of personalized monitoring strategies for training optimization, recovery management, and early detection of excessive physiological strain.
Study design
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Target follow-up
- 6 Months
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Elite male rowers | – | Other: 2000-m rowing ergometer test, Other: 6000-m rowing ergometer testMale elite rowers aged 19-24 years performing standardized 2000-m and 6000-m rowing ergometer tests during two training phases. Exercise-related biological and psychophysiological responses will be assessed before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery. |
| Elite female rowers | – | Other: 2000-m rowing ergometer test, Other: 6000-m rowing ergometer testFemale elite rowers aged 19-24 years performing standardized 2000-m and 6000-m rowing ergometer tests during two training phases. Exercise-related biological and psychophysiological responses will be assessed before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after 1 hour of recovery. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 19 to 24 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
- Study population
- The study population will consist of male and female competitive rowers aged 19-24 years who are members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team. Participants will be recruited from athletes engaged in regular high-performance rowing training and who participate in standardized rowing ergometer testing as part of routine performance monitoring across different phases of the training season. All participants will be medically cleared for maximal exercise testing and will represent elite-level endurance athletes.
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Male and female members of the Polish Youth National Rowing Team.
- Age between 19 and 24 years.
- Regular participation in structured rowing training.
- Medical clearance for participation in maximal exercise testing.
- Ability and willingness to provide written informed consent.
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Lack of consent for blood sampling or study participation.
- Current injury or health condition contraindicating maximal exercise.
- Acute infection, fever, or inflammatory condition at the time of testing.
- Use of anti-inflammatory medications.
- Use of performance-enhancing substances.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| 2000-m rowing ergometer testA standardized maximal rowing ergometer exercise test performed over a distance of 2000 meters during the competitive phase of the training season to evaluate acute physiological and molecular responses to high-intensity exercise. | Other | Elite female rowers, Elite male rowers |
| 6000-m rowing ergometer testA standardized prolonged rowing ergometer exercise test performed over a distance of 6000 meters during the preparatory phase of the training season to evaluate physiological and molecular responses to prolonged submaximal exercise. | Other | Elite female rowers, Elite male rowers |
Primary outcome
Changes from baseline in PPARGC1A (PGC-1α) gene expression
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolic adaptation to exercise.
Changes from baseline in TFAM gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of mitochondrial DNA maintenance and transcription.
Changes from baseline in PRKAA1 (AMPKα1) gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of cellular energy sensing and metabolic stress response
Changes from baseline in SOD2 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of mitochondrial antioxidant defense.
Change from baseline in serum growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of mitochondrial and metabolic stress
Change from baseline in serum apelin concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Exercise-related myokine associated with metabolic regulation.
Change from baseline in serum heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of cellular stress response
Change from baseline in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of neuroplasticity and exercise-related neuroregulation.
Change from baseline in serum myonectin (CTRP15) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis.
Change from baseline in serum insulin concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of glucose regulation and metabolic adaptation.
Change from baseline in serum glucagon concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of hepatic glucose production and gluconeogenesis.
Change from baseline in serum fetuin-A concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of insulin sensitivity and hepatic metabolic response.
Change from baseline in serum fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of metabolic adaptation and energy homeostasis
Change from baseline in serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Exercise-induced myokine involved in muscle-liver signaling.
Change from baseline in serum myoglobin concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of muscle stress and exercise-induced muscle response.
Changes from baseline in STAT3 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of IL-6 signaling pathway activation
Changes from baseline in SOCS3 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of negative feedback regulation of inflammatory signaling.
Changes from baseline in PCK1 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of gluconeogenesis regulation.
Changes from baseline in SLC2A4 (GLUT4) gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of skeletal muscle glucose transport
Change from baseline in plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of exercise-induced endotoxemia.
Change from baseline in serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of endotoxin transport and immune activation.
Change from baseline in serum soluble CD14 (sCD14) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of monocyte activation and endotoxin recognition
Change from baseline in serum soluble toll-like receptor 4 (sTLR4) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of innate immune receptor activation.
Change from baseline in serum soluble toll-like receptor 2 (sTLR2) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of innate immune response to bacterial components.
Changes from baseline in TLR4 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of endotoxin-induced inflammatory signaling
Changes from baseline in TLR2 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of innate immune activation.
Changes from baseline in TLR4-positive monocyte expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of monocyte receptor sensitivity to endotoxins.
Changes from baseline in TLR2-positive monocyte expression
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of innate immune receptor activation on monocytes.
Change from baseline in serum 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of oxidative DNA damage.
Change from baseline in serum nucleosome concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of chromatin fragmentation and cellular stress.
Change from baseline in serum high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of cellular stress and inflammatory signaling.
Change from baseline in number of apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of DNA strand damage and base excision repair activity.
Change from baseline in APE1/APEX1 protein concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of DNA repair pathway activation.
Change from baseline in poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of PARP activation and DNA repair response
Changes from baseline in CDKN1A (p21) gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of cell cycle arrest and DNA damage response.
Changes from baseline in GADD45A gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of genomic stress response.
Changes from baseline in APEX1 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of DNA base excision repair regulation
Changes from baseline in PARP1 gene expression.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Marker of DNA damage sensing and repair signaling.
19 secondary outcomes
Changes from baseline in blood lactate concentration.
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in hemoglobin concentration
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in hematocrit value
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in red blood cell count
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Changes from baseline in mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Change from baseline in white blood cell count
Time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, after 1 hour of recovery.
Profile of Mood States (POMS) score.
Time frame: Before exercise.
Sport Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) score.
Time frame: Before exercise.
Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) score.
Time frame: Before exercise.
Hooper Index score.
Time frame: Before exercise.
Change from baseline in mean interstitial glucose concentration
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline assessment through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in mean heart rate
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in estimated lactate concentration
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in dehydration rate
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in sweat sodium concentration
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in estimated sodium loss
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Change from baseline in sweat rate
Time frame: From pre-exercise baseline through exercise and 1-hour post-exercise recovery.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 29 May 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided. Individual participant data sharing has not yet been determined. Future sharing of de-identified data will depend on institutional policies, ethical considerations, participant consent, and planned secondary analyses.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Anna Skarpańska-Stejborn, Professor principal investigator
Poznan University of Physical Education, Gorzów Wielkopolski; Faculty of Sport Sciences in Gorzów Wielkopolski; Department of Biological Sciences,
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Healthy Adult Participants, run by Poznan University of Physical Education.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 5 inclusion and 7 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 29 May 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Joanna Ostapiuk-Karolczuk, PhD (+48573337282, j.ostapiuk@awf-gorzow.edu.pl), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Changes from baseline in PPARGC1A (PGC-1α) gene expression (time frame: At rest (before the exercise test), immediately after the end of the test, and after 1 hour of recovery.). The study lists 38 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 29 May 2026.