Integrative Metagenomic and Blood Biomarker Analysis Reveals Distinct Metabolic Responses to Aerobic and Anaerobic Interventions in Athletic and Non-Athletic Individuals

Abstract

BackgroundThe gut microbiome influences physiological responses to exercise through interactions with inflammatory markers and metabolite production. Athletes often exhibit a more diverse gut microbiome that is associated with improved performance, but the mechanisms, particularly in relation to different training modalities, are not fully understood. This study aims to integrate blood serum markers with metagenomic data to explore the interplay between exercise type, gut microbiome, and biochemical responses in athletic and non-athletic individuals. MethodsFifty-two male participants (endurance athletes, strength athletes, and controls) underwent two maximal exercise tests: the anaerobic Wingate test and the aerobic Bruce treadmill test. Blood and stool samples were collected at multiple time points for biochemical analysis and metagenomic sequencing. Blood markers were correlated with shifts in microbiome composition and function. ResultsWhile most biochemical parameters showed similar trends across all groups post-exercise, SPARC and adiponectin levels showed distinct responses depending on the exercise modality. The strength group showed unique microbiome associations with blood markers after the Wingate test. Baseline enrichment of specific bacteria (Clostridium phoceensis and Catenibacterium spp.) was associated with an inhibited response to the Bruce test in strength athletes. ConclusionsThe integration of metagenomic and blood serum analyses reveals that exercise modality and training background elicit complex physiological and biochemical responses mediated by the gut microbiome. These findings suggest that specific microbial species may play significant roles in recovery and adaptation processes following acute exercise. Further research with larger cohorts is needed to validate these findings and explore microbiome-targeted interventions to improve performance and recovery.