APPLICATION OF CELLULAR INTEGRATIVE IMMUNE MARKERS FOR THE DIFFERENTIATION OF NON-SPECIFIC ADAPTIVE RESPONSES IN ELITE BIATHLETES

Abstract

Aim. This study aimed to investigate the application of cellular integrative immune markers as a methodological framework for differentiating non-specific adaptive immune responses, with the goal of enhancing the monitoring of training efficacy and assessing physical performance in elite biathletes. Materials and methods. This study was conducted over a 2-year period and involved 42 elite male biathletes (mean age: 23.43 ± 3.38 years; weight: 74.97 ± 7.19 kg; height: 178.70 ± 6.71 cm; body mass index: 23.44 ± 1.28 kg/m²). Participants underwent comprehensive cardiopulmonary exercise testing with a treadmill protocol eliciting cardiorespiratory exertion. Preceding the exercise testing, peripheral blood analysis and body composition assessments were performed. Results. The study revealed a significant positive correlation between the systemic immune-inflammation index and heart rate at the first (r = 0.281, p < 0.001) and second ventilatory thresholds (r = 0.276, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the aerobic capacity of athletes, as indicated by oxygen uptake at the second ventilatory threshold, maximal oxygen uptake, and running time to failure, was found to be influenced by the type of non-specific adaptive immune response. Conclusion. The results of the study suggest that the differentiation of non-specific adaptive immune responses with respect to cellular integrative immune markers provides a valuable tool for preventing declines in aerobic capacity among endurance athletes.