REVISTA DE NEFROLOGIA, DIALISIS Y TRANSPLANTE, vol.42, no.2, pp.124-133, 2022 (SCI-Expanded)
Introduction: One of the supplements used in
exercise programs are branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are preferred
because of their effect on the regeneration of muscle protein synthesis.
However, due to their properties, BCAAs increase their amount in the blood in a
short time. In this case the result may increase the workload of the kidneys.
Based on the information, this study investigated the effects of resistance
exercise and BCAA supplements on kidney tissue. Methods: A total of 24 Wistar Albino male
rats were equally divided into 4 groups: Control, BCAA, Exercise and Exercise +
BCAA. In the six-week study, resistance swimming exercise was applied to the
exercise groups. BCAA supplementation was given to BCAA groups at 2.5 mg/kg
doses before exercise. At the end of the study, histological, immunochemical
and RT-PCR analyzes were performed. Results: As a result of the findings, it was
found that the use of BCAA supplements together with exercise caused tubular
necrosis (p=0.002). There was a significant increase in caspase 3 IHC staining
findings in BCAA and Exercise + BCAA groups compared to the control group
(p=0.011; p=0.02). In addition, KIM- 1 expression levels were higher in the
Exercise group than in all other groups (p=0.004; p = 0.003; p=0.008). Conclusion: As a result, BCAA consumption with
resistance exercise caused damage to kidney tissue.