The Effect of High Intensity Interval Training on Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Adropin in Lung Tissue in Old Rats

As the age increases (during aging process), endothelial dysfunction which is a key to atherosclerosis and the onset of cardio-respiratory failure in the elderly increases. Aging increases respiratory function, changes in lung function and shortness of breath. The present study was performed to determine the effect of high intensity interval training on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and adropin in lung tissue in old rats.This experimental study was performed on 16 old rats (22-24 months). The rats were randomly divided into high intensity interval training (HIIT) and control groups. A routine interval training program was conducted on a treadmill with an intensity of 100-80% of maximum oxygen consumption, 5 sessions per week for6 weeks. 48 hours after the last exercise session, animals were anesthetized with a combination of ketamine and Xylacin. The lung tissue was isolated on ice and kept at -80 °C until the test. The supernatant was used to determine the levels of VEGF and adropin. Independent T-Test was used to determine the difference between groups (P <0.05).

VEGF and adropin were increased significantly in high intensity interval training group compared to control group. In general, high intensity interval training increases VEGF and adropin in old male rats.