Are the Bcaas/Leucine Supplementation Effects on Exercise- Induced Muscle Damage Related Immunity Response or to Hmβ?

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), mainly leucine, have been described as potential modulators of resistance exercise-induced muscle adaptations which includes stimulation of muscle protein synthesis and attenuation of proteolysis. However, until the moment, there are no well controlled chronic studies (randomized, doubleblind and placebo-controlled) in humans assessing the effects of BCAAs/leucine supplementation on muscle hypertrophy and strength. The most well documented benefits of BCAAs/leucine concerning exercise is the attenuation of muscle damage and soreness. Previous reports support the theory that BCAAs/leucine could act through innate immunity. However, recent studies have demonstrated similar effects in humans with β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMβ) supplementation. Since HMβ is a leucine metabolite, it appears that there is a metabolic relation among BCCAs/leucine, HMβ and the attenuation of exercise-induced muscle damage.