Effect of Whey and Casein Proteins on Muscle Protein Synthesis after Resistance Exercise

Abstract

<p> Protein digestibility, a function of the source of amino acids consumed, can differentially affect postprandial protein anabolism at rest. We investigated the effect of ingesting whey and casein proteins, in isolation and in combination, after an acute bout of unilateral resistance exercise on muscle protein synthesis in eight healthy resistance trained men (24.4 ± 4.8 yr; 177.4 ± 4.2 cm; 85.5 ± 14.8 kg; means± SD). On three occasions, participants performed a unilateral bout of resistance exercise following which they consumed a drink containing whey, whey and casein (1:1), or casein protein. Each drink provided 10 g of essential amino acids. Mixed muscle protein fractional synthetic rate (FSR) was determined by pulse-tracer injections of L-[ring-2H5]phenylalanine and L-[15N]phenylalanine 120-180 min after protein ingestion. The pattern of amino acid appearance in the blood after consuming the protein drinks was not different. Consequently, while consumption of the protein drinks stimulated a larger increase in FSR in the exercised leg compared to the rested leg (p < 0.05), there were no differences between the drinks. Thus, while the source of amino acids may affect protein turnover at rest, this effect is not apparent after resistance exercise. Therefore, we conclude that the ingestion of whey and casein proteins, in isolation or combination, stimulates mixed muscle protein synthesis to similar degrees after an acute bout of resistance exercise.</p>