Analysis of oxidative stress in Wistar rats submitted to high-intensity interval training

Abstract

Physical exercise is a known factor that can promote oxidative stress and may result in cellular damage if not neutralized by antioxidant mechanisms. The aim of this study was to determine if the level of hepatic oxidative stress resulting from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is affected by the frequency pattern (consecutive vs. non-consecutive) of the training sessions. Thirty-two Wistar rats were divided equally into four groups: two control groups, (CS1) and (CS2), remained sedentary throughout the experiment, and two test groups, (CT1) and (CT2), and were submitted to HIIT for 12 consecutive and nonconsecutive (12 sessions, 3 times/wk over four weeks) days, respectively. There were no significant differences in markers of oxidative damage measured in hepatic tissue (TBARS) and markers of antioxidant activity (Sulfhydryl, FRAP), as well as markers of hepatic damage (AST and ALT) and antioxidant defense (Uric Acid) measured in plasma of both HIIT groups after training compared to the control groups. The results indicate that both HIIT performed for 12 consecutive and nonconsecutive sessions did not promote hepatic oxidative damage in rats.