LIPID OXIDATION DURING PROLONGED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: MECHANISM AND CURRENT RESEARCH METHODS

Abstract

This article analyses current understanding of lipid oxidation as a key mechanism for energy supply to the body during prolonged physical activity. It summarises the findings of recent domestic and international studies on the biochemical mechanisms of mobilisation, transport and β-oxidation of fatty acids during muscular activity. It highlights the characteristics of lipid utilisation depending on the intensity and duration of physical exertion, fitness level and hormonal regulation. It is shown that, under conditions of prolonged physical work, the oxidation of fatty acids ensures the economical utilisation of muscle glycogen stores, maintains a stable energy supply and promotes the development of the body’s metabolic flexibility. The role of catecholamines, insulin, glucagon and cortisol in the regulation of lipolysis and lipid oxidation is analysed, as well as the adaptive changes that occur in response to regular training. Particular attention is paid to modern methods of studying lipid metabolism, including the stable isotope tracer method, indirect calorimetry, biochemical blood analysis, skeletal muscle biopsy and molecular biological methods for determining the expression of genes and proteins associated with the transport and oxidation of fatty acids. Their capabilities, advantages and limitations in studying the mechanisms of energy supply during physical exertion are described. It has been established that the integrated application of modern biochemical, physiological and molecular methods enables a comprehensive study of lipid metabolism processes at the systemic, tissue and cellular levels. The results obtained can be used to provide a scientific basis for physical fitness programmes, sports training, medical rehabilitation and a personalised approach to assessing the body’s metabolic adaptation to physical exertion.