Research

Thesis title: Impact of long-term collagen peptide supplementation in combination with physical training on regenerative capacity following exercise-induced muscle damage, body composition and musculotendinous adaptations

Thesis outline: The data regarding the effects of acute and long-term protein supplementation along with physical activity on recovery are currently considered sparse. Some reviews and meta-analyses report a small but significant positive effect following protein intake, while other authors are unable to replicate this finding. Some studies have only analysed the acute impact of short-term protein intake before exhaustive training sessions.

Although various research groups consistently report an increase in muscle mass and strength, the evidence regarding the regenerative effects of specific collagen peptides has been scarcely investigated so far. Therefore, the aim of the dissertation project is to examine the potential influence of specific collagen peptides on recovery after intense muscle exertion. The following research questions are relevant in this regard:

What influence do specific collagen peptides exert on maximal, explosive, and reactive strength after intense muscle exertion?

What influence do specific collagen peptides have on recovery after exercise-induced muscle damage, as expressed by inflammatory, biochemical, and immunological markers?

Collagen peptides generally resemble more common proteins such as whey, casein, or soy protein. However, they have a different amino acid profile and consequently exert slightly different effects. The investigation of the effects of collagen peptides in conjunction with physical activity holds great potential, especially for rehabilitative, preventive, and performance-oriented purposes. Therefore, a systematic review with meta-analysis is also conducted as part of the dissertation to determine the current evidence of collagen peptides. The emphasis is placed on changes in body composition, the musculotendinous system and the process of recovery.

Supervisors: Daniel König, Arnold Baca

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