Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that explain the metabolic response and the adaptation of the human body to different types of exercise. Furthermore the aim of the course is to provide students with recommendations for an optimal diet for athletes of various disciplines, highlighting the close link between nutrition, energy metabolism and physical response to exercise. The student is asked to gain knowledge on the physiology of the endocrine system (hypothalamus-pituitary axis and feedback mechanisms), the main endocrine disorders, and regarding the main endocrine adaptations during physical activity.
Attendance at the course will allow the student to acquire adequate skills to be able to describe, communicate effectively and comment the most important topics of the program.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
The Skeletal Muscle and the mechanism of muscle contraction; properties and metabolism of the various types of muscle fibers; skeletal muscle energy metabolism during exercise and cross-talk with other organs and tissues (e.g. brain, adipose tissue, liver).
Training and detraining; peripheral and central mechanisms of fatigue; tapering strategies.
The skeletal muscle satellite cells.
Basal metabolism and metabolic balance. Nutrient principles and evaluation of energy and nutritional needs in physiological conditions and for the athlete. Healthy eating habits and eating patterns. Diet and exercise.
Endocrine system: endocrine glands and functions; Hypothalamo-Pituitary Axis. Pituitary adenomas; Pathophysiology of the Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Thyroid axis and main thyroid disorders; Athletic amenorrhea; GH-IGF-1 axis and GH excess; Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Adrenal axis: pathophysiology and glucocorticoid deficiency and excess disorders; Hypothalamo-Pituitary-gonadal axis and exercise; hormonal changes during exercise.
Full programme
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Bibliography
“Introduzione alla Biochimica di Lehninger” di D.L. Nelson, M.M. Cox. Editore Zanichelli.
“I principi di Biochimica di Lehninger” di D.L. Nelson, M.M. Cox. Editore Zanichelli.
"Biochimica per le scienze motorie" di A. Di Giulio, A. Fiorilli, C. Stefanelli. Editore Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.
"Biochimica metabolica dello sport e dell'esercizio fisico" di Maclaren & Morton. Editore Edi.ermes.
“Nutrizione per lo sport 1: Principi di nutrizione” di P. Biagi, A. Di Giulio, A. Fiorilli, A. Lorenzini. Editore Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.
“Nutrizione per lo sport 2: Alimentazione per lo sport e la salute” di P. Biagi, A. Di Giulio, A. Fiorilli, A. Lorenzini. Editore Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.
"Endocrinologia ed attività motorie" di A. Lenzi, G. Lombardi, E. Martino, F. Trimarchi. Editore Elsevier Masson 2008.
Teaching methods
Lectures will be held on-site. Supporting material will be available on the specific, student-reserved platform (Elly).
Assessment methods and criteria
The course includes two written test, one managed by the teacher of “Endocrinology” and one by the teacher of “Biochemistry and Nutrition”. Passing the written tests will allow access to the final exam which consists of an oral examination. The commission, taking into account all the evaluation elements acquired, will then formulate the final grade.
Students with special educational needs (S.L.D.) may contact Centro di Accoglienza e Inclusione dell'Ateneo (cai@unipr.it).
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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