Different Responses of Serum VEGF in Trained and Untrained Men to High-intensity Interval Exercise

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was known as the main specific mitogen for vascular endothelial cells. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of high-intensity interval exercise on serum VEGF changes in trained and untrained men.

Twelve male subjects recruited and assigned into two groups trained (n=6) and untrained (n=6) according to physical activity levels. One week before the experiment was started; subjects were familiar with protocol of research. High-intensity interval exercise protocol included of 12×1min intervals at ∼85-90% of reserve heart rate separated by 1min of active recovery. Blood samples were collected from both groups before, immediately after, three and five hours after doing high-intensity interval exercise. Also, serum VEGF was measured by ELISA kit and data were analyzed by using independent t-test and analysis of variance with repeated measures at the level of significance of P≤0.05.

Results of study showed levels of Serum VEGF, immediately after high-intensity interval exercise increased in trained but decreased in untrained men. Also, significant differences were observed between serum VEGF level changes of trained and untrained men in response to exercise (P≤0.05).

Physical fitness status can be of the effective factors in changes model of serum VEGF in response to a session of high-intensity interval exercise.