Investigating the Effect of Interval and Continuous Aerobic Training on Hepatic Expression of CD36 and HSL Genes in Fructose-Fed Male Rats

Background: Poor nutrition and chronic inactivity are the primary causes of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its complications. Alterations in the expression of cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) genes are also implicated in these complications. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of interval and continuous aerobic training on hepatic expression of CD36 and HSL genes in fructose-fed male rats. Methods: Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats (6 - 8 weeks, 220 ± 20 g) were divided into four groups: Normal control (NC), fructose control (FC), fructose continuous training (FCT), and fructose interval training (FIT). Hepatic expression of HSL and CD36 genes, fasting blood glucose, and insulin resistance (IR) were measured. Liver histology was also performed. Results: The results indicated that fructose non-significantly reduced the hepatic expression of CD36 and HSL genes and significantly increased fasting blood glucose in the FC group. In contrast, continuous and interval training reduced fasting blood glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, and hepatic HSL levels. Histological analysis showed improved liver cell status in the fructose-trained groups compared to the fructose group. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that long-term fructose consumption leads to decreased expression of HSL and CD36 genes, increased fasting blood glucose levels, and the development of IR. However, continuous and interval training improved these effects in the fructose-receiving groups. Continuous and interval training may be effective strategies for preventing and reducing symptoms associated with MetS.