This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. A number of adverse changes occur to the cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) and nervous systems with advancing age. The mechanisms (biological reasons) underlying these changes are unknown. However, we do know that: a) decreased tonic nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability can cause similar adverse changes that can be observed in patients with certain cardiovascular diseases; and b) tonic NO bioavailability decreases with advancing age. In addition, we also know that regular aerobic exercise is associated with improved cardiovascular and nervous system function as well as greater tonic NO bioavailability. Accordingly, the proposed research will test the hypothesis that the adverse changes in cardiovascular and nervous system funcion with aging is due, in part by, decreased tonic NO bioavailability, whereas the more optimal function associated with regular exercise is due to greater NO production. This will be determined by administering the precursor to NO (L-Arginine) in young and older sedentary men and women, and in endurance exercise trained older adults while measuring cardiovascular and nervous system functions before and after this administration.
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