Possible role of moderate exercise training in modulating gene expression of adipose tissue remodeling markers in obese male rats

Purpose Obesity is a growing public health problem characterized by adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction that is associated with metabolic complications. Exercise is a crucial intervention for the treatment of obesity. However, the role of moderate exercise training in modulating AT remodeling process remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of moderate swimming exercise on gene expression of AT remodeling markers in obese rats. Methods Thirty-two adult male wistar rats were divided into equal non-obese and obese groups. Each group was subdivided into sedentary and exercised subgroups. Moderate exercise training protocol was performed by swimming 30 min, 5 times a week for 8 weeks. Results HFD feeding increased anthropometric parameters, visceral adiposity, lipids, insulin resistance and inflammation. Findings revealed a significant upregulation of VEGF-A, HIF-1α, CD11c, OPN and CD44 and a significant downregulation of CD163 in the VAT of obese sedentary rats. All these parameters were reversed after swimming exercise. VEGF-A expression was positively correlated with visceral fat weight and adiposity index in obese subgroups. HIF-1α expression was positively correlated with HOMA-IR in both obese subgroups and negatively correlated with IL-10 only in obese exercised subgroup. CD11c, OPN and CD44 expressions were positively correlated with HOMA-IR and TNF-α in both subgroups. CD163 expression was negatively correlated with HOMA-IR and TNF-α in obese exercised subgroup. Conclusions Moderate exercise training exerts protective effects in obesity and related metabolic dysfunctions through modulating gene expression of AT remodeling markers. These markers could be possible targets for treatment of obesity and associated pathologies.