Wei Xu

Ms. Wei Xu


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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27 January 2026 in Metabolites
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
TLTie ying Li
Tie ying Li
WXWei Xu
Wei Xu
JCJun Chen
Jun Chen
ZKZhaobo Kan
Zhaobo Kan
XSXuemei Sui
Xuemei Sui
Qirong WangQirong Wang
Qirong Wang
Objectives: We aimed to investigate the effects of 6 weeks of leucine supplementation on athletic performance, central fatigue, and serum metabolome in endurance athletes, and to provide valuable insights into nutritional strategies for endurance athletes. Methods: Twenty cross-country skiers were recruited and randomized into 2 groups: the placebo (PLA) group and the leucine (LEU) group. Subjects were given leucine (8.5 g) + sucrose (14 g) or only sucrose (14 g) supplements twice each day from Monday to Saturday for 6 weeks. Test parameters include body composition, aerobic capacity, isokinetic muscle strength, blood biochemistry, and targeted metabolomics. Results: After intervention, compared to the PLA group (1) the ankle muscle strength (p = 0.01), VO2max (p = 0.01) and valine in serum (p = 0.03) were increased in the LEU group. (2) Targeted metabolomics results showed that the differential metabolites were enriched in the branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) biosynthesis and degradation. (3) The LEU group had a significant increase in α-ketoisovaleric acid (p = 0.03), which can reduce the continuous decomposition of BCAAs. Conclusions: In conclusion, a six-week intervention of leucine supplementation significantly enhanced ankle muscle strength in endurance athletes, likely through a reduction in BCAA catabolism. Additionally, this combined supplementation strategy demonstrated potential benefits in improving aerobic endurance and may contribute to the attenuation of exercise-induced central fatigue.