The effect of resistance training on PPARy expression in subcutaneous fat tissue of diabetic rats with high fat diet and STZ

Genetic studies have supported the role of PPARγ as an effective genetic component in the incidence and severity of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). The present study aimed to determine the effect of resistance training on PPARγ expression in subcutaneous fat tissue, insulin resistance, glucose and serum insulin in T2D rats.

Fourteen males Wistar rats aged 10 weeks with T2D induced by high fat diet-STZ were randomly divided into exercise (n=7) and control (n=7) groups. Exercise group completed a six weeks resistance training including climbing on a stepladder (5 days/wk) and control group did not participate in any exercise intervention. Relative expression of PPARγ expression in subcutaneous fat tissue, fasting glucose and insulin resistance were measured 48 hours after the last exercise session of two groups. Independent T test was used to compare data. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant.

Resistance training led to significant decrease in fasting glucose (p<0.001) and insulin resistance (p<0.001) in comparison to control group. Compared to control group, PPARγ increased in response to resistance training (p=0.013). No significant difference was obsereved in serum insulin between the two groups (p=0.0184).

Based on existing evidence, reduced insulin resistance and fasting glucose can be attributed to increased PPARγ expression in subcutaneous fatty tissue of diabetic obese rats in response to resistance training.