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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Motor Physical Therapy Affects Muscle Collagen Type I and Decreases Gait Speed in Dystrophin-Deficient Dogs

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Author(s):
Gaiad, Thais P. [1] ; Araujo, Karla P. C. [2] ; Serrao, Julio C. [3] ; Miglino, Maria A. [2] ; Ambrosio, Carlos Eduardo [4]
Total Authors: 5
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Jequitinhonha & Mucuri Valley UFVJM, Fac Biol Sci & Hlth, Dept Phys Therapy, Diamantina, MG - Brazil
[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Vet Med & Anim Sci, Dept Surg, BR-09500900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Phys Educ & Sports, Dept Biodynam, BR-09500900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[4] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Anim Sci & Food Engn, Dept Vet Med, Pirassununga, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 4
Document type: Journal article
Source: PLoS One; v. 9, n. 4 APR 8 2014.
Web of Science Citations: 7
Abstract

Golden Retriever Muscular Dystrophy (GRMD) is a dystrophin-deficient canine model genetically homologous to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in humans. Muscular fibrosis secondary to cycles of degeneration/regeneration of dystrophic muscle tissue and muscular weakness leads to biomechanical adaptation that impairs the quality of gait. Physical therapy (PT) is one of the supportive therapies available for DMD, however, motor PT approaches have controversial recommendations and there is no consensus regarding the type and intensity of physical therapy. In this study we investigated the effect of physical therapy on gait biomechanics and muscular collagen deposition types I and III in dystrophin-deficient dogs. Two dystrophic dogs (treated dogs-TD) underwent a PT protocol of active walking exercise, 3 x/week, 40 minutes/day, 12 weeks. Two dystrophic control dogs (CD) maintained their routine of activities of daily living. At t0 (pre) and t1 (post-physical therapy), collagen type I and III were assessed by immunohistochemistry and gait biomechanics were analyzed. Angular displacement of shoulder, elbow, carpal, hip, stifle and tarsal joint and vertical (Fy), mediolateral (Fz) and craniocaudal (Fx) ground reaction forces (GRF) were assessed. Wilcoxon test was used to verify the difference of biomechanical variables between t0 and t1, considering p<.05. Type I collagen of endomysium suffered the influence of PT, as well as gait speed that had decreased from t0 to t1 (p<.000). The PT protocol employed accelerates morphological alterations on dystrophic muscle and promotes a slower velocity of gait. Control dogs which maintained their routine of activities of daily living seem to have found a better balance between movement and preservation of motor function. (AU)