Acute aerobic exercise mediates G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 expression in human PBMCs

AimsG protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2), a cytosolic enzyme desensitizing G protein-couple receptors (e.g., β-adrenergic receptors [β-ARs]), is involved in regulation of hypertension, congestive heart failure, and inflammatory response. Since cellular GRK2 levels change quickly in response to exogenous/endogenous stimuli, this study examined whether GRK2 levels in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) would increase during acute aerobic exercise and be associated with plasma IL-6 and cardiorespiratory fitness levels.Main methodsEighteen subjects (8 men and 10 women), ages 18 to 30 years, were recruited to perform a 30-minute bout of acute aerobic exercise at 75% VO2max.Key findingsOur results demonstrated that women exhibited significantly greater exercise-induced GRK2 expression in PBMCs compared to men. IL-6 modulation is independent of GRK2 expression. Furthermore, the percent change in GRK2 expression was negatively correlated with cardiorespiratory fitness levels (relative VO2max), but not plasma IL-6.SignificanceAcute aerobic exercise induces a greater GRK2 expression in women than men, while increased cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with exercise-induced GRK2 expression in PBMCs. Gender could be a contributor to regulate this GRK2 responsiveness to acute aerobic exercise.