Dynamic exercise enhances regional cerebral artery mean flow velocity

Abstract

Dynamic exercise enhances regional cerebral artery mean flow velocity. J. Appl. Physiol. 78(1): 12–16, 1995.--Anterior (ACA) and middle (MCA) cerebral artery mean flow velocities (Vmean) and pulsatility indexes were determined using transcranial Doppler in 14 subjects during dynamic exercise after assessment of the carbon dioxide reactivity for both arteries. Right hand contractions provoked an elevation in left MCA Vmean [19% (12–28); P < 0.01], whereas the pulsatility decreased in all four arteries (P < 0.05). During right foot movement, left ACA Vmean increased by 23% (11–37; P < 0.01) with lesser (approximately 10%; P < 0.05) increases in the other arteries, and pulsatility index decreased (P < 0.05). During cycling, ACA and MCA Vmean increased bilaterally by 23% (10–49) and 18% (5–32), respectively (P < 0.01), and the pulsatility was also elevated (P < 0.05). Cerebral artery pulsatility did not demonstrate a focal response but depended did not demonstrate a focal response but depended on the muscle mass involved during exercise. The data demonstrate a significant increase in Vmean for the artery supplying the cortical projection of the exercising limb. Insignificant and marginally significant increases in Vmean may be related to sympathetically mediated vasoconstriction and/or coactivation of untargeted muscle groups.