Effects of Chemotherapy Treatment on Metaboreflex, Mechanoreflex, and Baroreflex Function: PROTECT-08B Study

Baseline measurements of neuromuscular function and hemodynamic responses will be performed. Baroreflex sensitivity will be assessed using a neck collar applying positive and negative pressures to stimulate the carotid baroreceptors, thereby modulating baroreflex activity in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanoreflex activation will then be evaluated using the passive leg movement (PLM) technique. After the PLM, participants will perform four fatigue tasks, each followed by 2 minutes of post-exercise circulatory occlusion (PECO). Tasks involve isometric quadriceps contractions at 20% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) during 1 min (block 1), 2 min (blocks 2 and 3) and until failure (block4). Neuromuscular function will be assessed through MVC changes and quadriceps twitch responses. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) will be recorded continuously. Metaboreflex activity will be determined by plotting post-PECO changes in peripheral fatigue against the change in MAP during PECO phases.