Research Specifications

BACKGROUND: We investigated the integrated effects of an aerobic training program on circulatory levels of some metabotrophic factors including nerve growth factor (NGF), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and testosterone/cortisol ratio in middle aged males with metabolic syndrome (MetS). METHODS: Thirty subjects (age: 58.23±5.25 years, weight: 95.00±8.26 kg, height: 173±7.03 cm, VO2peak: 19.96±4.18 mL kg.min-1) were randomized into exercise (N.=16) and control (N.=14) groups. The exercise group participated in eight-week aerobic training program (3 sessions/week at 50%-60% of VO2peak). At baseline and following experimental period fasting blood samples were taken and VO2peak, insulin sensitivity and MetS Z score (Z MetS) were measured. RESULTS: Aerobic training significantly increased insulin sensitivity, Vo2peak, plasma HDL and serum NFG, BDNF, IGF-1 and testosterone levels (P<0.05). Additionally, there were significant decreases in body weight, Z MetS, mean arterial pressure (MAP), waist circumference (WC) plasma glucose (FBS) and triglyceride (TG) and also serum cortisol levels (P<0.05). Body weight, waist circumference, and NGF levels were recognized as the most important predictors for the 80% of variability in serum testosterone/cortisol ratio (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Integrated effects of aerobic training for people with generalized MetS was verified as it decreases metabolic risk and serum cortisol, while increases NGF, BDNF, IGF-1 and testosterone. These findings emphasized on the protective effects of physical activity in treatment and prevention of metabolic, cognitive and cardiovascular disorders in midlife. Future studies should focus on adipose tissue, inflammatory mechanisms and metabotrophins straight measurement within the CNS.