The effect of interval training on adipokine plasmatic levels in rats with induced myocardial infarction

Context: Exercise has been demonstrated to reduce pro-inflammatory while boosting anti-inflammatory adipokines; yet research in relation to Myocardial infarction (MI) is limited. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an interval exercise-training programme on concentrations of Lipocalin-2 and Adiponectin plasmatic levels in rats with induced MI. Materials and methods: The experimental study design comprised of three groups, including: a control group, MI control group and MI training group that participated in an interval training protocol for six weeks. Results: There was a significant increase in Lipocalin-2 levels in the MI interval training group when compared to the other groups. Discussion and conclusion: Although interval training has beneficial effects on adiponectin, it also increases Lipocalin-2 concentrations. Because Lipocalin-2 significantly contributes to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and adverse cardiac conditions, our findings suggest that interval training might be a counterproductive strategy to improve MI-related cardiac damage.