Effect of ultra-marathon (308 km) race on bone metabolism and cartilage damage biomarkers

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the potential eff ects of a 308-km ultra-marathon on bone and cartilage biomarkers. Method: Venous blood samples were collected at pre-race, 100 km, 200 km, and 308 km checkpoints. Th e following markers of cartilage damage and bone metabolism were studied: osteocalcin (OC), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and calcium, phosphorous, and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP). Results: Blood samples were taken from 20 male runners at four different checkpoints. Serum COMP was increased by 194.1% (130.7% at 100 km and 160.4% at 200 km). Serum OPG was signifi cantly increased by 158.57% at 100 km and 114.1% at 200 km compared to the pre-race measures. OC was transiently suppressed at 200 km. Serum calcium and phosphorous concentrations decreased compared to the pre-race measures. Conclusion: This study showed that the 308-km ultra-marathon induced several changes, including transient uncoupling of bone metabolism, increased bone resorption, suppressed bone formation, and bone turnover and had a major impact on cartilage structure. © 2012 by Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine.