ORCID

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4702-3077

Keywords

menstrual cycle, resistance training, neutrophils, chemotaxis, real time cell analysis, perceived recovery and performance

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation series was to examine the effect of the menstrual cycle on neutrophil chemotaxis and adhesion profiles, as well as general immunological, functional, and perceptual measures of recovery following resistance exercise in trained women. Study one explored the impact of the early follicular (EFP), late follicular (LFP), and mid-luteal (MLP) phases on neutrophil recruitment and adhesion receptor expression, markers of muscle damage and inflammation, and functional recovery following resistance exercise. Results indicated that menstrual phase did not have a significant impact on immunological recovery or functional recovery. However, main effects of menstrual phase were revealed in several immunological variables including white blood cell counts and CD62L expression. Despite these phase effects, no significant implications for recovery were observed. Study two examined the chemotactic sensitivity and receptor expression profiles of neutrophils across the EFP, LFP, and MLP in a subset of participants. Real time cell analysis assays performed with an absolute concentration of interleukin-8 were utilized to assess migratory behaviors of isolated neutrophils pre- and at 4- hours post exercise. No significant impact of menstrual phase was observed for primary study outcomes; however, significant differences were noted between pre-exercise and post-exercise migratory behaviors. These results suggest that exercise was a significant primer for chemotaxis ex vivo, regardless of menstrual phase. Study three evaluated the impact of the EFP, LFP, and MLP on sleep quality, perceived exertion and recovery, exercise enjoyment, menstrual distress, mood, and subjective performance. Differences in the physiological demand of exercise were also assessed. The results of this investigation indicated that menstrual phase did not significantly impact perceptual measures of exertion, recovery, mood, exercise enjoyment, menstrual distress, or sleep quality. However, significantly higher average heart rates and total kilocalories expended during exercise were observed during the MLP compared to the EFP.

Completion Date

2025

Semester

Summer

Committee Chair

Wells, Adam

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Health Professions and Sciences

Department

Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences

Format

PDF

Identifier

DP0029593

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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