INFLUENCE OF EXERCISE TRAINING MODALITIES ON INSULIN RESISTANCE AND FTO GENE EXPRESSION IN EXPERIMENTAL OBESITY

Background and Aim: Clinical evidence highlights the critical role of transcription factors in insulin action within adipose and muscle tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training on FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue, as well as on glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in obese rats. Methods: Obesity was induced in 21 male Wistar rats via a high-fat diet (HFD). The rats were then randomly assigned to three groups: HIIT group (8 weeks, 5 sessions/week; n=7); Resistance training group (8 weeks, 5 sessions/week; n=7); Control group (no training; n=7). At 48 hours after the final exercise session, the following parameters were measured: Fasting glucose, Serum insulin, Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test for between-group comparisons. Results: Both HIIT and resistance training led to significant reductions in: Fasting glucose (P = 0.001), Insulin resistance (P=0.001), FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue (P=0.001), Serum insulin levels (P= 0.001) compared to the control group. Conclusion: The observed improvements in glucose metabolism and insulin resistance following HIIT and resistance training may be attributed to the downregulation of FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue. These findings suggest that both exercise modalities could be effective strategies for metabolic regulation in obesity. Laboratory Highlights & Technical Implications: • Both HIIT and resistance training significantly reduced fasting glucose, insulin levels, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in obese rats. • Downregulation of FTO expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue may be a key mechanism behind improved insulin sensitivity. • Both exercise modalities showed similar metabolic benefits, supporting their efficacy in obesity management. • These findings highlight structured exercise (HIIT or resistance training) as a non-pharmacological strategy for metabolic regulation. • Future research should explore long-term FTO modulation and combined training effects for clinical translation.