Determination of the Maximal Lactate Steady State in Obese Zucker Rats

This study aims to identify the maximum lactate steady state (MLSS) in obese rats in order to provide a more effective tool in the exercise training prescription for this important animal model. To make such determination, obese (Zucker, n = 5) (390.0 +/- 18.8 g) and lean (Wistar, n = 5) (227.3 +/- 26.2 g) rats were studied. After adaptation of animals to treadmill, the MLSS was determined by using 3 different velocities (10 m.min(-1), 12.5 m.min(-1) and 15 m.min(-1) for Zucker and 15 m.min(-1), 20 m.min(-1) and 25 m. min(-1) for Wistar). The MLSS was defined as the highest blood lactate concentration that increased up to 1 mmol.L-1 during constant exercise. In obese rats, the MLSS was found in a velocity considerably lower than in lean controls (12.5 m. min(-1) and 20 m.min(-1)), respectively (p < 0.05). Therefore, the identification of MLSS in obese Zucker rats is an important tool for exercise prescription and evaluation in obese rat models.