Physiological characteristics associated with increased resistance to decompression sickness in male and female rats

Abstract

By selective breeding of individuals resistant to decompression sickness (DCS) we previously obtained a rat model of inherited resistance to this pathology. Comparison of these individuals with nonresistant animals revealed differences in leukocyte counts, coagulation, and mitochondrial and vascular functions, but not resistance to oxidative stress. This study also reveals sex-related differences in the physiological changes associated with DCS resistance. A principal components analysis of our data allowed us to discriminate DCS-resistant males from standard ones, but not females. These differences represent possible mechanisms driving resistance to DCS. Although still far from the diver, this opens a pathway to future adaptation of personalized decompression procedures for "DCS-prone" individuals.