Targeting Hyaluronan Accumulation Through Exercise in T2DM

A pilot longitudinal study to examine hyaluronan (HA) accumulation in muscles of individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and the effects of exercise on HA accumulation, muscle stiffness, strength, ankle joint mobility, and physical function. HA accumulation will be assessed non- invasively using magnetic resonance imaging.

This single-center, longitudinal design study uses MRI to evaluate the mechanistic effects of exercise on skeletal muscle function. Twenty-five T2DM patients will be enrolled and be prescribed a 10-week exercise program. The exercise program will comprise aerobic and resistance components; a moderate level of intensity will be calculated based on results from a maximal graded exercise test (VO2R) conducted prior to the intervention. MRI data will be acquired at baseline and before and after the intervention that can provide mechanistic insight into the adaptations in lower leg muscle function.