C60 Fullerene Helps Muscles Recover from Fatigue

A research study published in Journal of Nanobiotechnology in 2017 by Prylutskyy et al. explores how C60 fullerene, a unique carbon molecule, can help reduce and prevent muscle fatigue in rats. The study, shows that C60 fullerene acts as a powerful antioxidant to improve muscle recovery and endurance.

In simple terms, muscle fatigue happens when muscles get tired and lose strength during exercise, partly due to harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) that build up and cause oxidative stress. C60 fullerene, shaped like a tiny soccer ball, can neutralize these harmful molecules. The researchers tested a water-based C60 solution (C60FAS) on the calf muscles of anesthetized rats. Before C60FAS, the muscles weakened quickly during fatigue. After applying C60FAS, the muscles maintained strength longer and recovered faster. Tests showed lower levels of oxidative stress markers (like hydrogen peroxide) and higher levels of natural antioxidants (like glutathione) in the muscles, indicating C60FAS helped balance the muscle’s chemical environment.

This study highlights C60’s potential as a therapeutic agent to boost muscle performance and recovery. These findings suggest C60 could be used in the future to help athletes or people with muscle-related conditions by reducing fatigue and enhancing endurance.

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