Journal of Eexercise & Organ Cross Talk
Exercise and organ crosstalk

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) variation to aerobic exercise and aloe vera intake in women with type 2 diabetes

Volume 1, Issue 1, Spring 2021, Pages 1-7

https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.22034/JEOCT.2021.281858.1001

Shahin Riyahi Malayeri, Hamideh Rahimi, Seyed Kazem Mousavi Sadati, Reza Behdari

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the interactive effect of aloe vera intake and eight weeks’ aerobic exercise on serum BDNF, glucose, and insulin levels in women with type 2 diabetes. In this experimental study, 32 women with type 2 diabetes were selected and randomly divided into four groups of control, supplement, exercise, exercise + supplement. The exercise program was performed 3 sessions per week for 8 weeks (40 min of exercise with 50-60% of heart rate reserve in the first four weeks and 60 min of exercise with 60-80% of heart rate reserve in the second four weeks). The supplement taking groups received 400 mg/kg of oral aloe Vera 3 days per week for 8 weeks. The data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). A significant increase was observed in BDNF levels, insulin sensitivity of patients in the supplement, exercise, and exercise + supplement groups (p=0.001). The glucose and insulin levels, insulin resistance, BMI, and body fat percentage significantly decreased in the supplement, exercise, and exercise + supplement groups (p=0.001). It seems aloe Vera intake and aerobic exercise to have protective effects against development of type 2 diabetes complications in women.

Exercise and organ crosstalk

The long-term effect of moderate-intensity exercise on the expression of the genes irisin and sirtuin-1 in the skeletal muscle of diabetic rats with streptozotocin

Volume 2, Issue 1, Winter 2022, Pages 1-7

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2022.331972.1030

Alireza Mohammadi, Mania Roozbayani

Abstract Disorders of glucose metabolism in various tissues, including skeletal muscle tissue and adipose tissue are features of diabetes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the long-term effect of moderate-intensity continuous exercise on the expression of irisin and sirtuin-1 genes in the skeletal muscle of streptozotocin-nicotinamide-diabetic rats. Thirty-six 8-week-old males were randomly divided into three groups: healthy control (n = 12), diabetic (n = 12), and moderate-persistent diabetes (n = 12). Diabetic groups developed diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide and STZ solution at a doses of 95 and 55 mg/kg. The diabetic-moderate-intensity continuous exercise group performed their training protocol by running on a treadmill for 12 weeks, 5 sessions per week. Forty-eight hours after the last training session, the subjects were anesthetized and their horseshoe muscle tissue was removed and the expression of the genes Irisin and Sirtuin-1 was measured. 12 weeks of moderate-intensity continuous exercise in diabetic mice resulted in a significant increase in the expression of the genes Irisin and Sirtuin-1 (p <0.05). Performing 12 weeks of continuous exercise with moderate intensity in diabetic rats increased the expression of Irisin and sirtuin-1. Thus, changes in the expression of irisin and serotonin-1 may improve the symptoms of metabolic syndrome and can be a compensatory mechanism for reducing oxidative stress in diabetics.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

The effect of aerobic exercise training on the expression of genes involved in cardiac apoptosis (Caspase-3/-7) in rats with glioblastoma multiforme

Volume 3, Issue 1, Winter 2023, Pages 1-7

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2023.385414.1067

Neda Taherizadeh, Farshad Ghazalian, Hossein Shirvani, Mandana Gholami, Hossein Abednatanzi

Abstract Performing aerobic exercise in different disease conditions can regulate cardiac homeostasis and reduce cardiac apoptosis caused by the disease. In brain cancer, other tissues, including cardiac tissue, can also be affected. Since exercise training causes organ crosstalk, in this study, the effects of aerobic exercise training (AET) on cardiac apoptosis in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) rats are evaluated. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups (n=8 in each) of healthy control, GBM, and GBM+AET. Glioblastoma was injected into the frontal cortex of rats. The training group (AET) performed aerobic exercises on the treadmill for 4 weeks, 3 days a week at a speed of 18 meters per minute, for 25-40 minutes. In the end, the rats were sacrificed and caspase-3 and caspase-7 were analyzed from the myocardium by Real-time PCR method. Considering H&E image, the GBM group showed necrosis and apoptosis in cardiac tissue compared to the healthy group. Compared to the healthy control group, GBM significantly increased caspase-3 and caspase-7 mRNA in the myocardium (p<0.05). However, in contrast to the GBM group, the GBM+AET showed a significant decrease in caspase-3 and caspase-7 mRNA at the myocardium (p<0.05). Since tumor formation in the body can affect other distant tissues in an endocrine manner, it is suggested to prioritize aerobic exercise to control the damage caused by GBM on heart tissue. However, more studies are needed, especially on human samples.

Exercise and organ crosstalk

Functional interference (crosstalk) between gut microbiome, proteolysis, apoptosis and muscle hypertrophy: Role of resistance training and supplement

Volume 4, Issue 1, Winter 2024, Pages 1-11

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2024.463170.1112

Mona Nouri, Hamid Arazi

Abstract Primary objective of this study was to examine the interplay between grip strength, a functional marker of hypertrophy, and its connection to the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio in the gut microbiome. Twenty-five male Wistar rats were divided into five groups using a computerized randomizer: old and young control groups (OC, YC), old resistance training group (OR), old supplement group (OS), and old resistance training combined with supplement group (ORS). Rats in the OR and ORS cohorts underwent eight weeks of ladder-climbing resistance training three times a week, while those in the OS group were given supplements 5 times per week after the intervention. Muscle samples were collected from all rats two days’ post-intervention. FOXO1, BAX, and cytochrome C, were assessed using PCR-real time. Analysis of the data was carried out using one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey testing. The results revealed a decrease in FOXO1 and apoptotic gene expression post-intervention, with a more pronounced reduction observed in the ORS group compared to the other groups (p<0.05). Notably, supplementation alone did not impact FOXO1 expression, akin to the effect of exercise on cytochrome C. A moderate negative correlation was documented between the F/B ratio and grip strength (p= 0.003; r= -0.54). Additionally, positive and moderate correlations were observed between FOXO1, BAX, cytochrome C, and the F/B ratio (p<0.05). These findings emphasize a functional association between the gut microbiome and muscle through their metabolites, indicating mutual regulation. Furthermore, it is suggested that exercise and supplements may further enhance these interconnected mechanisms.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Acute hormonal and myokine responses to traditional vs. circuit resistance training in high-BMI and low-BMI males

Volume 5, Issue 1, Winter 2025, Pages 1-6

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2025.522762.1151

Seyed Saeid Kazemi Rezaei, Moein Fasihiyan, Behrad Boron, Maryam Nourshahi

Abstract This study examined the acute hormonal and myokine responses to traditional and circuit resistance training in young males with distinct BMI-based groups. Twenty sedentary men aged 20–30 years were classified as high-BMI (BMI >29.9) or low-BMI (BMI <18.5). Each participant completed both traditional resistance training (TRT) and circuit resistance training (CRT) protocols in a crossover design, with a one-week washout period. Sessions included multi-joint upper and lower body exercises at comparable intensities. Blood samples were taken immediately before and after each session. Serum levels of testosterone, cortisol, myostatin, and follistatin were assessed using ELISA kits. A repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare within- and between-group changes across time and training modality. Baseline cortisol levels were significantly higher in low-BMI individuals (P=0.037), while testosterone levels showed no initial difference between groups (P>0.05). Post-TRT, testosterone levels increased significantly in high-BMI individuals compared to low-BMI individuals (P=0.017), with both training types elevating testosterone and cortisol across all participants (P<0.05). CRT led to a significant reduction in myostatin and increase in follistatin in high-BMI individuals (P<0.05), while only follistatin increased significantly in low-BMI individuals after TRT (P<0.05). These results suggest that CRT promotes superior anabolic signaling in high-BMI individuals, while TRT is more effective at enhancing testosterone response. Myokine and hormonal responses appear to be body-type-dependent and training-modality-specific. Practitioners designing hypertrophy-focused programs should tailor training protocols to the athlete’s BMI-based group to optimize muscle adaptation and endocrine outcomes. And also, trainers should individualize hypertrophy programs based on body composition to optimize both hormonal responses and muscle adaptation.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

The effects of 8-week sport metric training on hematological profiles and physical fitness parameters in adolescent male soccer players

Volume 6, Issue 1, Winter 2026, Pages 1-9

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2026.572254.1188

Alireza Fereidani, Hossein Barzegari, Zahra Mosayebi, Bahman Hasanvand

Abstract This semi-experimental study employed a pre-test–post-test design with a control group to investigate the effects of an eight-week sport metric training program on selected hematological indices and physical performance variables in adolescent male soccer players. Thirty participants (aged 13–16 years) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 15). The experimental group performed sport metric training three sessions per week for eight weeks, in addition to their routine soccer training. The control group continued only their standard soccer sessions. Hematological indices (hemoglobin, hematocrit, and blood viscosity) were measured from venous blood samples, while physical performance was assessed using the 36-meter sprint test (for speed) and the Illinois agility test. Following the intervention, the experimental group showed significant improvements compared to the control group. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels increased meaningfully (P ≤ 0.05), suggesting enhanced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Blood viscosity decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.05), which may indicate improved blood flow and reduced circulatory resistance. In terms of physical performance, the experimental group exhibited substantial reductions in sprint time (36-meter sprint) and agility time (Illinois test), both reaching statistical significance (P ≤ 0.05) with large effect sizes. In conclusion, eight weeks of sport metric training produced favorable changes in hematological profiles and marked enhancements in speed and agility performance among adolescent male soccer players. The findings suggest that targeted, sport-specific training programs can serve as a valuable supplement to routine soccer training during adolescence, supporting both physiological development and on-field performance.

Exercise and organ crosstalk in diseases

Is there a cross talk between aortic valve calcification and bone mineral density in older adult men and women? A single-center study from Iran

Volume 2, Issue 2, Spring 2022, Pages 39-46

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2022.336954.1036

Soraya Shadmanfar, Fateme Safari, Maryam Moshkani Farahani, Abolfazl Shakibaee

Abstract Despite numerous studies, the association between osteoporosis and aortic valve calcification is not clear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between aortic valve calcification and osteoporosis in an Iranian population over 60. In this cross-sectional study, patients aged over 60 years referring to the Bone Mineral Densitometry center of Baqiyatallah Hospital (Tehran, Iran) during 2019-2020 were evaluated. Trans-thoracic echocardiography was done for all patients to evaluate the existence of aortic valve calcification. Patients were compared in two groups with and without osteoporosis (T-score < -2.5) as well as in two groups with and without aortic calcification. Two-hundred patients with a mean age of 65.92 ± 5.59 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 25.73 ± 4.08 kg/m2 were studied (84.5% female). Patients with osteoporosis (n=104) had lower BMI and greater frequency of aortic calcification compared to the patients without osteoporosis (n = 96). Patients with aortic calcification had higher age, lower BMI, and higher proportion of osteoporosis compared to the patients without aortic calcification (P<0.05). According to the results, it is suggested that elderly patients with osteoporosis and hypertension be evaluated for aortic valve calcification. This evaluation seems more crucial for older people with high blood pressure, lower BMI, and osteoporosis. Moreover, patients with aortic valve calcification could be evaluated for osteoporosis. Confirming the above results requires further investigation with a larger sample size.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

The effect of exercise program combined with electrical stimulation on bone mass density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTMs) in postmenopausal women with osteopenia

Volume 5, Issue 2, Spring 2025, Pages 48-58

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2025.531569.1159

Azam Zarneshan, Azizeh Farshbaf-Khalili, Yaghoub Salekzamani, Saeedeh Erfanniaa, Atena Attarana

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an exercise program (EP) in combination with functional electrical stimulation (FES) on bone mass density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTMs) in osteopenic postmenopausal women. In this semi-experimental study, 45 women aged 61.25 ± 4.1 years who were classified as osteopenic (-2.5 < T-score < -1) were divided into three groups: 1) EP + FES, 2) EP and 3) control. The EP + FES and EP groups participated in a combined aerobic (45-60% HRR) and strength program for 90 minutes three times a week for 12 weeks. In the EP + FES group, FES with a frequency of 45 Hz and a pulse width of 300 microseconds was applied to the lumbar and hip area. Blood samples were taken at the beginning of the study and again after 12 weeks to determine BMDs. BMD was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). After 12 weeks, cross-linked type 1 collagen C-telopeptide (sCTX) (p=0.002) and pyridinoline (PYD) (p=0.001) levels decreased significantly, while vitamin D (p=0.002), PINP/PYD ratio (p=0,032), the ALP/PYD ratio (p=0.004) and the ALP/CTX-1 ratio (p=0.010) increased significantly in both the EP+FES and EP groups compared to the control group. The EP+FES group showed a significant increase in lumbar (p=0.048) and hip BMD (p=0.038) compared to the control group. Therefore, an exercise programme in combination with FES is recommended as the preferred intervention to maintain or improve bone formation, as FES has a synergistic effect on bone health in patients with osteopenia.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Running economy and metabolic responses following exercise- induced muscle damage at two different velocities

Volume 3, Issue 2, Spring 2023, Pages 58-65

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2023.394939.1076

Farzaneh Movaseghi, Zahra Hemati Farsani

Abstract Eccentric contractions predispose muscles to damage. Type II muscle fibers are more susceptible than type I, so it seems that contraction velocity interferes in mechanical stress and thus muscle damage. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of contraction velocity of acute dominant knee extensor eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) on running economy and metabolic responses in trained young females. Twenty-one trained young females were randomly assigned into two groups: high-velocity contraction eccentric exercise (240°s-1) and low-velocity (60°s-1). To induce muscle damage subjects, in high and low-velocity groups performed 20 and 5 sets of 15 repetitions, respectively, with a load equal to 150٪ of the maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) torque of knee extensors with a dominant limb. Then; MVIC of knee extensors was recorded before, one and 48 h after EIMD, and running economy (submaximal Steady-state vo2), and metabolic responses were recorded at 60, 70, and 80% of pre-determined vVO2max, 24 h before and 48 h after EIMD. Both exercise bouts resulted in significant changes in MVIC of knee extensor (p<0.05) with no significant difference between the two groups. No significant difference was found in running economy and metabolic responses in three different intensities following both exercise conditions between the two groups. Results of the analysis showed that a four-fold difference in contraction velocity of eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage was not sufficient to induce a difference in muscle damage, running economy, and metabolic responses when the knee extensor muscle tension duration was equalized.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

The effect of short-term sprint interval training on bone density of male Wistar rats under western diet

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 01 June 2026

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2026.575286.1193

Alireza Tabatabaee, Mohammad Rahmani, Maryam Khalesi

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of sprint interval training on Markers of bone metabolism and bone density in Male Wistar Rats under unhealthy high fat, sugar, salt Diet. The study design was an 8-week protocol consisting of three groups: Control (CO), Western diet (WD) and Western diet+Sprint interval training (SIT) (WD/SIT). WD rats received a high-fat, sugar, and salt diet, while WD/SIT rats followed the same diet combined with sprint interval training. The one-way ANOVA revealed significant differences between groups for all variables (p<0.05). Effect sizes (η²) ranged from 0.47 to 0.99, indicating large effects for bone density (η²=0.99), ALP(η²=0.77), phosphorus (η²=0.74), and calcium (η²=0.47).  Post-hoc analysis by LSD test showed that the WD group exhibited a significantly lower femur bone density percentage (24.09±2.32) compared to both the control (58.40±1.64) and WD/SIT (47.67±1.60) groups (p<0.001). Regarding bone metabolism markers, the WD/SIT group demonstrated significantly reduced serum ALP levels (195.67±20.83IU/L) compared to the control (248.33±29.30IU/L) and WD (253.17±38.46IU/L) groups (p<0.001). For serum phosphorus, the WD/SIT group (5.68±0.58 mg/dL) was significantly lower than the control (7.68±0.63 mg/dL) and WD (8.58±0.78mg/dL) groups (p<0.001). Furthermore, serum calcium levels in the control group (10.27±0.80 mg/dL) were significantly higher than in the WD/SIT (8.92±0.61 mg/dL) and WD (9.18 ± 0.28 mg/dL) groups (p< 0.01). These results indicate that a high-calorie, high-salt diet had a negative effect on bone metabolism. However, sprint interval training partially attenuated these adverse effects.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Physical fitness and frailty index in developing biological age prediction model

Volume 4, Issue 2, Spring 2024, Pages 74-85

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2024.478382.1124

Masoud Golpayegany, Saba Amiri, Abbas Haghparast, Maryam Nourshahi

Abstract The global increase in the older population has resulted in escalating healthcare costs and burdens on governments and families. Understanding biological age (BA) as distinct from chronological age (CA) holds significant potential in accurately assessing individuals' health status and susceptibility to diseases. During exercise, myokines like irisin and lactate are released from skeletal muscles, facilitating cross-talk with organs such as the brain and heart. This may improve physical fitness, reducing frailty and BA. This research aimed to develop a comprehensive BA prediction model integrating genetic and epigenetic factors. The study involved 59 healthy adults, comprising 31 males and 28 females, with average ages of 58.2 ± 7 years and 50.1 ± 8.5 years, respectively. Assessments of physical fitness and completion of the Frailty Index (FI34) questionnaire were conducted to capture genetic and epigenetic influences. Feature selection, principal component analysis (PCA), and multiple linear regression (MLR) were employed to tailor BA prediction models for each gender. We identified seven significant biomarkers for males, including FI34, percent of skeletal muscle mass (SM), handgrip strength (GS), flexibility via sit-and-reach test (SR), peak torque of quadriceps muscles (PTQ), cardiopulmonary fitness (VO2max), and basal metabolic rate (BMR). Conversely, females exhibited six key biomarkers: FI34, SM, GS, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), peak torque of hamstring muscles (PTH), and percentage of body fat (PBF). We have successfully developed a comprehensive model for estimating BA by integrating key biomarkers representing epigenetic and genetic impacts. Estimating BA is crucial for precise health evaluations and disease risk assessments.

Exercise and organ crosstalk in diseases

Moderate-intensity continuous training and probiotic consumption on IL-15 gene expression in an animal model of non-alcoholic steatosis

Volume 2, Issue 3, Summer 2022, Pages 85-90

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2022.351857.1048

Asal Ziloubaf, Shahin Riyahi Malayeri, Amin Feli, Masoumeh Hosseini, Ali Azadi, Motahare Ghane

Abstract Steatosis is the most important cause for chronic liver disease, from simple steatosis to advanced stages such as liver fibrosis and cirrhosis and liver cancer. In this study, the effect of MICT and probiotic consumption on IL15 gene expression in animal model of non-alcoholic steatosis was examined. This study is an experimental laboratory study. Thirty-two male wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 8 in the healthy (normal diet), steatosis, steatosis + probiotic, steatosis + probiotic +MICT groups and tested for 8 weeks. The exercise protocol was as follows: in the first week from 10 minutes of running at a speed of 18 meters per minute to the eighth week with 60 minutes of running at a speed of 28 meters per minute. Consumption of probiotics; Relevant groups received 109 CFU / ml of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG by gavage daily for 5 weeks and 5 days a week. Statistical calculation of this study was performed using SPSS 25 software. Probiotic consumption and moderate-intensity continuous training significantly increased IL-15 (p =0.000) and significantly decreased TG (p =0.000) in the non-alcoholic steatosis animal model. It seems moderate-intensity continuous training with probiotic consumption can improve the liver function of non-alcoholic fatty liver patients.

Exercise and organ crosstalk in diseases

The effect of moderate-intensity interval training on plasma subfatin levels and body composition in sedentary obese middle-aged women

Volume 5, Issue 3, Summer 2025, Pages 103-108

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2025.546876.1168

Zeynab Molaei Arpanahi, Mehdi Bostani

Abstract Obesity is a major risk factor for metabolic diseases. Subfatin, an adipokine with potential metabolic benefits, is of increasing interest. This study investigated the effects of eight weeks of Moderate-Intensity Interval Training (MIIT) on plasma subfatin levels and body composition in sedentary, obese, middle-aged women. Thirty sedentary women (aged 50-60 years; BMI >30 kg/m²) were purposively selected and randomly assigned to an experimental (n=15) or a control (n=15) group. The experimental group performed an eight-week MIIT program (three sessions/week) at an intensity of 50-75% of heart rate reserve, following the principle of progressive overload. The control group maintained their usual sedentary routine. Fasting plasma subfatin levels were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and body composition indices (BMI, body fat percentage [BFP], waist-to-hip ratio [WHR]) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. The MIIT group exhibited a significant increase in plasma subfatin levels (p=0.016) and a significant decrease in BFP (p=0.01) compared to the control group. While positive trends were observed, no significant inter-group differences were found for BMI (p>0.05) or WHR (p=0.095). An eight-week MIIT program effectively elevated plasma subfatin concentration and reduced body fat percentage in sedentary, obese, middle-aged women. These results suggest that MIIT may be a valuable exercise strategy for improving adipokine profile and body composition in this population.

 
 


 

Exercise and organ crosstalk

Effects of eight-week progressive resistance training on physical fitness and psychological health in adolescent males

Volume 1, Issue 3, Autumn 2021, Pages 106-114

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2021.309463.1018

José Afonso, Masoud Sadeghi, Omid Razi, Alexandre Martins, Abdolhossein Parnow

Abstract Physical fitness and psychosocial health might improve through resistance training programs. However, there has been controversy regarding the efficacy of different exercise programs. Therefore, this study attempted to compare the effect of 8-week resistance training with linear and undulating programming on physical fitness and mental health. Twenty-nine healthy and untrained students (age: 16.06±0.83) were randomly divided into three groups: (1) control (n= 6), (2) linear programmed resistance training (LPRT) (n= 12), and (3) undulating programmed resistance training (UPRT) (n= 11). After two weeks of familiarization, 1RM (one-maximum repetition) values were obtained. Thereafter, experimental groups attended a resistance training program of 3 sessions/week (lasted 60 min each) for 8 weeks. Both groups had a similar plan until the fourth week. Then, intensity increased up to 70% of 1RM on a weekly basis for the LPRT group, and varied on a daily basis for the UPRT group. Upper- and lower-extremities strength and endurance, balance, speed, explosive-power, lean body mass, general mental health (GSQ) and physical self-concept (PSCQ) were measured. Experimental groups produced significant improvements in physical outcomes, in comparison with the control group. There were no improvements in GSQ and PSCQ. There were no statistically significant differences between the two programs. Both linear and undulating programs improved physical fitness of previously sedentary adolescent males to a similar extent. For practical purposes, as long as loads are individually adjusted, the type of program may not be relevant in beginner practitioners. Furthermore, both models were ineffective in producing changes in the psychosocial variables.

Exercise and organ crosstalk

A survey of two submaximal exercise training on a C-reactive protein in the elderly man

Volume 3, Issue 3, Summer 2023, Pages 109-115

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2023.404468.1086

Sajad Ahmadi, Masoud Rezaeikohan, Mohammad Fallahpoor Salekdeh

Abstract The purpose of this research is to survey the effect of eight weeks of sub-maximal training on the C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in elderly males. The subjects of the research consisted of 21 elderly males between 50-80 years old, divided into two groups (one experimental group and one control group), with VO2Peak values of 51.14±2.7, 51.92±3.17, and 43.61±1.85 (based on the 1-mile (1609 meters) Track Jog test). The experimental group carried out Balke-Ware sub-maximal aerobic exercise 5 sessions a week for 8 weeks, while the control group did not participate in the training program. The results of the research showed that the average CRP levels decreased in the experimental group, while they increased in the control group. However, these differences were not statistically significant according to the paired sample T-Test results. On the other hand, a significant difference in Vo2 Peak was observed between the two groups (p<0.039 and p<0.001), with the experimental group showing higher values compared to the control group. Additionally, there was no statistically significant difference in HS-CRP levels between the subjects (experimental group 1, experimental group 2, and control group) before and after the training period. In general, it seems that a longer duration is required to observe better markers of inflammatory and cardiovascular effects of these variables. The pre-study hypothesis of cardiorespiratory fitness on CRP response confirms that assessing control and inflammatory markers of cardiorespiratory fitness in the elderly requires more time.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Effect of continuous aerobic training and high-intensity interval training on some anthropometric indicators of overweight and obese military personnel

Volume 2, Issue 4, Autumn 2022, Pages 136-141

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2022.375308.1055

Mohammad Samadi, Tohid Bagherpoor Goll, Mohammad Reza Fattahi, Fatemeh Rostamkhani, Shahin Riyahi Malayeri

Abstract Overweight and obesity are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension and type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of two continuous aerobic training and high-intensity interval training on body weight, body mass index, waist to hip ratio, and body fat percentage in overweight and obese military people. In this quasi-experimental study, 30 overweight or obese military personnel stationed in a military center were divided into two equal groups of 15 subjects within continuous aerobic training group and high-intensity interval training group. The training protocol consisted of six weeks of continuous aerobic training and high intensity interval training performed every week for three sessions and each session for 60 minutes with equal intensity. The research variables included body weight, body mass index, waist to hip ratio and body fat percentage, which were measured in the same and standard conditions in two stages of pre-test and post-test. After 6 weeks of intervention, high-intensity interval training group showed a significant reduction in body mass index, waist-hip ratio and body fat percentage compared to the continuous aerobic training group(P<0.05). However, there was no significant change in the body weight of the subjects (P<0.05). The results of this study showed that the high-intensity interval training protocol had a greater effect on the body composition parameters of the subjects compared to the continuing aerobic exercise protocol, so it could be included in the training program for overweight or obese military persons.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Combined resistance training and pineapple extract slow melanoma growth and alter liver apoptosis in mice

Volume 5, Issue 4, Autumn 2025, Pages 153-160

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2025.554729.1176

Saeid Shahrestani, Hossein Abednatanzi, Mandana Gholami, Farshad Ghazalian

Abstract Melanoma is an aggressive malignancy with a high propensity for metastasis, particularly to the liver. This study investigated the individual and combined effects of resistance training (RT) and pineapple extract (PE) supplementation on primary melanoma tumor growth and the expression of hepatic apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl-2) in a murine model. C57BL/6 mice bearing subcutaneous B16F10 melanoma tumors were allocated to four groups: Tumor Control (TC), RT, PE, and Combined (RT+PE). The six-week intervention consisted of ladder-climbing RT and/or oral PE supplementation. Tumor volume was measured throughout the study. Upon completion, hepatic Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression was analyzed via qPCR. While RT and PE alone did not significantly affect tumor volume, the Combined (RT+PE) group showed a significant reduction compared to the TC group (p<0.05). In the liver, all intervention groups (RT, PE, and Combined) significantly decreased pro-apoptotic Bax expression and increased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression relative to the TC group (p<0.05). The combination of resistance training and pineapple extract exhibits a synergistic effect in reducing primary melanoma tumor growth. Furthermore, both interventions independently and collectively modulate systemic apoptotic markers in the liver, suggesting a potential role in influencing the hepatic microenvironment. This non-invasive combinatorial approach may represent a promising complementary strategy for managing melanoma progression and its systemic effects.

Exercise and organ crosstalk in diseases

Long-term aerobic exercise with curcumin supplementation improves cardiac fibrosis via TGF-β1/TRAF6/CTGF signaling in brain tumor of rats

Volume 4, Issue 3, Summer 2024, Pages 157-165

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2024.495703.1136

Neda Taherizadeh, Farshad Ghazalian, Hossein Shirvani, Mandana Gholami, Hossein Abednatanzi

Abstract The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of aerobic exercise and nano-curcumin supplementation on cardiac TGF-β1/TRAF6 and CTGF pathways in rat with brain tumors. Forty male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups (n=8 in each) of healthy control, brain tumor, tumor + aerobic exercise (AE), tumor + nanocurcumin (N-CUR) and tumor+AE+N-CUR. Glioblastoma was injected into the rats in the frontal cortex. Nano curcumin supplement at the dose of 80 mg/kg was gavage for 4 weeks, 5 days a week. The training groups performed aerobic exercises on the treadmill for 4 weeks, 3 days a week at a speed of 18 meters per minute, for 25-40 minutes. At the end, the rats were sacrificed and TGF-β1, TRAF6, CTGF were analyzed from the myocardium by Real-time PCR method. Compared to the healthy control group, Tumor group significantly increased TGF-β1 mRNA and TRAF6 mRNA in the myocardium (p<0.05). Also, compared to the healthy control group, all tumor groups showed a significant increase in CTGF mRNA expression (p<0.05). In contrast to the Tumor group, the Tumor+AE and Tumor+AE+N-CUR groups showed a significant decrease in TGF-β1 mRNA at myocardium (p=0.0010 and p=0.0002, respectively). It seems that aerobic exercise or exercise with nano-curcumin supplement has better protective effects on the heart of tumor rats with downregulation of TGF-β1. It is suggested that different doses and various exercise modalities should be investigated to control cardiac fibrosis from the TGF-β1/TRAF6 and CTGF pathways.

Exercise and organ crosstalk

A potential protective mechanism of high-intensity interval training against tetracycline-induced hepatic steatosis and testicular apoptosis in male Wistar rat: A crosstalk between the liver and testis

Volume 3, Issue 4, Autumn 2023, Pages 160-172

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2023.432373.1101

Masoumeh Ebadi Zahmatkesh, Fatemeh Rostamkhani

Abstract The presence of tetracycline in animal products has toxic and destructive effects on body tissues. In this study we investigate the potential protective mechanism of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) against tetracycline-induced hepatic steatosis (HS) and testicular apoptosis in male Wistar rat. In this study, forty-eight male Wistar rats (8-week, 220±10 gram) were randomly divaded into six groups of primary control (pre week one), primary HS (tetracycline-induced HS), secondary control (after week five), secondary HS, (5) HIIT, and HS+HIIT (after week five). Tetracycline was administered to rats 140 mg / kg for 7 days by gavage. HIIT was performed on rodent treadmill 5 days/week for 5 weeks.  Oral exposure of tetracycline for 7 days caused severe testis damage as indicated by significant alterations in histomorphological, apoptosis, increase Bax, P53 and decease Bcl2 (gene and protein, p=0.001) compared to primary control. But the changes of PARP1 were not significant (p>0.05). However, HIIT and HS+HIIT groups significantly increased spermatogonium counts, spermatocyte cell counts & spermatid cell counts (p=0.001 for all) in line with Bcl-2 and PARP1 (gene and protein, p=0.001) and decreasing apoptotic cells, Bax and p53 compared with secondary HS group (p=0.001). This research provides the first evidence that the beneficial anti-apoptosis effects of HIIT on testis of rats poisoned with tetracycline. This beneficial effect of HIIT on hepatic steatosis and testicular damage and toxicity due to tetracycline might be mediated by inhibiting P53-induced BAX upregulation and preventing apoptosis-mediated degradation of PARP-1.

Exercise & crosstalk between signalling pathways

Comparison of different intensities of resistance training on glucose, insulin, adiponectin, and HbA1C levels in male patients with type 2 diabetes

Volume 4, Issue 4, Autumn 2024, Pages 245-254

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2025.499711.1139

Saeed Abedinzadeh, Mohammad Masomi, Hamid Abbasi, Reza Sharifatpour

Abstract The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of different methods of resistance training on diabetes in men with type 2 diabetes. This is a semi-experimental and practical study. Forty-four subjects with type 2 diabetes, randomly divided to 4 groups. The three experimental groups of 11, 11, and 12 people and a control group of 10 people, were performed the pre-test and post-test of after 12 weeks of training intervention under high intensity, moderate intensity and low intensity programs. The research variables were glucose, insulin, adiponectin, insulin resistance and glycated hemoglobin. ELISA kit was used to test adiponectin. For analyzing the data, one-way ANOVA statistical test of gain scores and LSD post hoc test was used. All tree Exercise protocols had a positive effect and caused a significant decrease in glucose (P>0.001), insulin (P>0.001), insulin resistance (P>0.001), adiponectin (P>0.001) and serum HbA1C (P>0.001), which had a significant difference with the control group (P>0.05). But there was no difference between the three training groups. Calculating the effect size on the serum factors of diabetes showed that the low intensity had the greatest effect on insulin (ES = 1.11), insulin resistance (ES = 1.39) and HbA1C (ES = 2.05), while glucose (ES = 1.09) and adiponectin (ES = 0.38) were affected more by high intensity. According to the effect sizes, it is recommended to clinician to prescribe high intensity programs to reduce glucose and low intensity programs to improve insulin, insulin resistance and serum HbA1C in type 2 diabetic male patients.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Aerobic exercise and cannabidiol supplementation modulate prostate Akt gene expression in high-fat diet-fed rats: Mechanistic insights into obesity-driven prostate cancer risk

Volume 5, Issue 1, Winter 2025, Pages 7-12

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2025.525710.1154

Marzieh Hafezi Eirdmousa, Mandana Gholami, Heshmatollah Parsian, Hossein Abed-Natanzi

Abstract Epidemiological evidence indicates that obesity is associated with accelerated prostate cancer progression and elevated mortality rates. However, the underlying physiological mechanisms linking obesity to prostate cancer pathogenesis remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of six weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic training combined with cannabidiol (CBD) supplementation on prostate protein kinase B (Akt) gene expression in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese male rats. Forty male Wistar rats (240 ± 20 g) were randomly assigned to five experimental groups: healthy control, HFD, HFD+exercise, HFD+CBD, HFD+exercise and CBD (n=8 per group). CBD was administered via oral gavage at 100 mg/kg, five days per week for six weeks. The aerobic exercise protocol consisted of treadmill running at progressive intensities, ranging from 15 m/min for 30 min to 27 m/min for 60 min, five days per week for six weeks. Following the intervention, prostate tissue was extracted for quantitative analysis of Akt gene expression. Statistical analysis revealed that aerobic exercise significantly modulated Akt gene expression (P=0.015). Similarly, CBD administration exerted a significant effect on Akt expression (P=0.004). However, no significant interactive effect was observed between aerobic exercise and CBD (P=0.068). These findings suggest that both aerobic exercise and CBD independently influence Akt signaling pathways, potentially through anti-inflammatory mechanisms, which may contribute to prostate cancer prevention. Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise molecular interactions involved.

Exercise and organ crosstalk

Effects of resistance exercise type on cortisol and androgen cross talk in resistance-trained women

Volume 1, Issue 1, Spring 2021, Pages 8-14

https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.22034/JEOCT.2021.285091.1002

Hossein TaheriChadorneshin, Sara Motameni, Ali Golestani

Abstract The current study aimed to compare the effect of hypertrophy-, strength-, and power-type resistance exercise in resistance-trained women with considering cortisol and androgen cross talk. After one-repetition maximum (1-RM) estimation, ten resistance-trained women (age: 26.30 ± 4.95 years; body mass index: 22.07 ± 2.02 kg/m2; body fat: 24.64 ± 4.98%) conducted hypertrophy- (70% of 1-RM), strength- (90% of 1-RM), and power-type (45% of 1-RM) resistance exercise for three consecutive weeks. The movements included lever leg extension, reverse-grip lat pull-down, horizontal leg press, standing biceps cable curl, lying leg curl, machines bench press, standing cable triceps extension, and seated calf raises. Fasting blood was taken before and immediately after each trial. Statistical analyses were performed at a significance level of P

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Toll-like receptor 4 activation in skeletal muscle of diet-induced obese rats

Volume 2, Issue 1, Winter 2022, Pages 8-14

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2022.331038.1029

Mehdi Soleimani, Fatemeh Rostamkhani, Saeed Shahmohammadi

Abstract Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is found in the membrane of skeletal muscle cells. A variety of factors can activate TLR4. It has been shown that TLR4 expression reduce after aerobic training, but more studies considering the influences of different types of training on TLR4 expression are necessary. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of 8 weeks of aerobic training on muscle TLR4 Expression in rats. Twenty Male Wistar rats (200±20 g) divided into four groups: control, training, high fat diet (HFD) and HFD+exerise. High fat diet was made by adding 10% animal oil, 2% cholesterol and 0.5% colic acid to standard rodent chow. Training group performed a swimming training protocol (1 h/day, and 5 days/week for 8 weeks). Forty eight hours after the final session of training, the rats were sacrificed and their gastrocnemius muscle was removed for determination of TLR4 expression. Training significantly decreased TLR4 messenger RNA and protein expression (p<0.05). Levels of TLR4 expression in the HFD group was significantly (p<0.05) higher tahn control ones. Our result displayed that training in rats induceed a critical suppression in the TLR4 signaling in muscle. These data give noticeable progress in our knowledge of the events that link physical training to an improvement in inflammation.

Cellular & Molecular Exercise Physiology

Green tea polyphenols attenuate resistance exercise-induced increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines in obese men

Volume 3, Issue 1, Winter 2023, Pages 8-14

https://doi.org/10.22034/jeoct.2023.385114.1066

Mohammad Rahman Rahimi, Shila Zereh-Tan Lhoni

Abstract Green tea polyphenols have been suggested to exert anti-inflammatory actions in in vivo and in vitro studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of green tea extract (GTE) supplementation on pro-inflammatory cytokines during a single bout of resistance exercise (RE) in obese men. Participants were ten obese men who participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled (PL) crossover study, administered 14-day GTE (500 mg/day) supplementation and PL with a 14-day washout period. After the supplementation periods, the participants performed the RE protocol, consisting of three sets of six exercises, to failure at 75% of one repetition maximum (1RM) and 2 min rest between sets. The serum samples were collected pre- and post-RE and analyzed for TNF-α, IL-1α, and IFN-γ. RE significantly increased TNF-α and IL-1α in obese men by 15% (p=0.043) and 18.71% (p=0.003) above the pre-RE values in the PL condition, respectively. However, GTE supplementation inhibited acute RE-induced increases in the TNF-α and IL-1α levels in obese men. Moreover, changes in the IFN-γ level during RE tended to be lower in GTE compared to the PL condition. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that 14-day GTE supplementation offers protection against RE-induced increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines in obese men. These immunomodulatory effects of GTE may be, in part, due to the anti-inflammatory properties of GTE in obese men that can be considered as a potential therapeutic factor to ameliorate obesity-associated inflammation.

Exercise and organ crosstalk in diseases

DeLorme-Watkins or high-intensity pyramidic training protocol: Which one has more effectiveness on adiponectin and TNF-α?

Volume 6, Issue 1, Winter 2026, Pages 10-16

https://doi.org/10.22122/jeoct.2026.566465.1183

Keyvan Ahmadi Dehrashid

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the effects of two different resistance training protocols on TNF-α and adiponectin in young overweight men. Sixty healthy overweight men (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m², age 20–30 years) were randomly assigned to three groups: Experimental Group 1 (EG1), Experimental Group 2 (EG2), and Control Group (CG). EG1 performed the DeLorme-Watkins protocol, consisting of 3 sets of 10 repetitions at 50%, 75%, and 100% of 10RM, while EG2 performed HIPT, consisting of 3 sets (set 1: 6 repetitions at 70% of 1RM; set 2: 4 repetitions at 80% of 1RM; set 3: 2 repetitions at 90% of 1RM). Training lasted 8 weeks. TNF-α and adiponectin levels were measured pre- and post-intervention. One-way ANOVA with Tukey post hoc tests and paired-samples t-tests were used to analyze inter- and intra-group differences (α≤0.05). TNF-α significantly decreased in EG1 (P = 0.04), while adiponectin levels significantly increased in both EG1 (P = 0.02) and EG2 (P = 0.03) at post-test compared to pre-test. Additionally, TNF-α levels were significantly lower in EG1 than in CG at post-test (P = 0.01). Both resistance training protocols exerted beneficial effects on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers, potentially contributing to cardiovascular disease prevention. However, the DeLorme-Watkins protocol resulted in a significantly greater reduction in TNF-α levels compared to HIPT, whereas no significant between-group difference was observed for adiponectin.