EXERCISE IN MALES BORN GROWTH RESTRICTED TO RESTORE SPERM FUNCTION PREVENTING ADVERSE OFFSPRING HEALTH

Abstract

Males born growth restricted transmit heart disease and diabetes to their children. The mechanism of this transmission is unknown, but is likely due to altered sperm function. We aim to determine the impact growth restriction has on sperm function in men and rats, and establish the optimal window for rat exercise intervention to prevent disease transmission. We expect that exercise in juvenile life will prevent, whereas exercise in adults may ameliorate disease outcomes by improving the sperm.