Acute Metabolic Effects in Brazilian A-29 Fighter Pilots by NMR-Based Metabolomics

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Operating an aircraft imposes significant physical and mental demands on pilots, particularly those in military aviation. These challenges include circadian disruptions, irregular working hours, and exposure to G-forces. This study investigates the acute metabolic effects of flight in the A-29 fighter pilots of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). Blood, urine, and saliva samples were collected from 32 pilots, trainees ( n = 12; aged 23–26 years) and instructors ( n = 20; aged 25–41 years), immediately before and after flights. Assessments included anthropometric measurements, complete blood count (CBC), circulating endothelial cells (CECs), coagulogram, lipidogram, urinalysis, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics. After flights, trainees showed a 12% increase in the number of segmented neutrophils, while instructors exhibited a 15% increase in the number of lymphocyte counts. Serum lactate levels decreased in both groups (23% in trainees and 12% in instructors). Salivary glucose increased by 49% in trainees, whereas instructors demonstrated decreases in metabolites such as choline (23%) and lactate (15%). Urinary trigonelline levels increased by 53% in instructors. The observed changes were more pronounced in instructors vs trainees, indicating a degree of metabolic adaptation associated with greater flight experience. These findings highlight NMR-based metabolomics as a valuable tool for monitoring acute metabolic changes in fighter pilots.