The effect of resistance training with liposomal vitamin C on UCP1 and FIS1 expression in hepatocytes of elderly rats

Aging can increase the risks of various liver diseases and act as an unfavorable prognostic factor and increase mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of 8-week resistance training with liposomal vitamin C on the expression of UCP1 and FIS1 in hepatocytes of elderly rats.

The present study was an experimental study with a control group. Twenty-five male rats (Wistar) aged 24 weeks (280-320 g) were randomly divided into 5 groups; young control group, elderly + resistance training group, elderly + liposomal vitamin C group, elderly + resistance training + liposomal vitamin C group and old age control group. In the groups receiving liposomal vitamin C, liposomal vitamin C was administered daily based on kilograms of body weight.

UCP1 expression was significantly reduced in the elderly group compared to the young group (P=0.001). However, the expression of UCP1 in the elderly group + resistance training along with vitamin C consumption increased significantly compared to the elderly group (P=0.001). Also, FIS1 expression was significantly increased in the elderly group compared to the young group (P=0.001). However, the expression of FIS1 in the elderly group + resistance training with vitamin C consumption was significantly reduced compared to the young group (P=0.001).

Aging increases FIS1 expression and decreases UCP1 expression in rat liver tissue. However, resistance training with vitamin C decreases FIS1 expression and increases UCP1 expression in elderly rats.