Functional Diffusive/Convective Interaction Determining Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Humans: Its Modeling Perspective

Abstract

In this short review, the frame of current understandings concerning what determines the upper limit of oxygen flow from the ambient air to the muscu-lar mitochondria during maximal dynamic exercise in humans (i.e., VO₂max), was summarized mainly from its modeling perspective. Several models and experirnental evidences which appeared repeatedly in the recent debates regarding the factors limiting V0₂max, were adopted and criticized. In conclusion, V0₂max is determined in particular by the integrated interaction between the diffusive and convective factors both to lung 0₂-loading and muscular 0₂-unloading in the path-way for 0₂ flow, although all experimental observations cannot be satisfactorily explained at the present time.