Abstract
Cell membrane capacitance (Cm), or the ability of the lipid bilayer to store an electrical charge, is considered a measure of “cellular health”; however, Cm is rarely reported in the literature. PURPOSE: This study examined the relationship between Cm and body composition variables measured with laboratory methods in young adult athletes. METHODS: In a single session, an athlete’s body composition was measured using a multicomponent model that included air displacement plethysmography (body volume and body density), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (bone mineral content and bone mineral density), and bioimpedance spectroscopy (total body water and Cm). Pearson correlation coefficients were evaluated for strength of relationship. RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 226 (38.9% women) university club athletes. Men (3.00 ± 0.62 nF) had greater (p < .001) Cm than women (1.90 ± 0.36 nF). Variables indicative of lean mass, such as fat-free mass index, had a strong (r > .70) direct relationship with Cm. The Cm relationship was moderate for measures related to body mass and bone health (r = .30 to .60) and weak (r < .20) for fat mass. CONCLUSION: The relationship between Cm and body composition variables is strongest for the fat-free components.
Recommended Citation
Wagner, Dale R. FACSM
(2025)
"Cell Membrane Capacitance Relationship to Reference-Measured Body Composition Parameters in Young Adult Athletes,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 14:
Iss.
5, Article 57.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol14/iss5/57