Changes of Interleukin-6 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels following acute plyometric training among inactive men

ABSTRACT Introduction: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays an important role in transmission of nerve impulses, plasticity, growth, and generally in the health of nervous system. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is involved in immune and inflammatory responses and is produced by immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, skeletal muscles, and fat tissues. The aim of this study was investigating the changes of IL-6 and BDNF serum concentration following acute plyometric training among inactive men. Methods: This semi-experimental study was conducted at a gymnasium in Yasuj. A total of 18 inactive men voluntarily participated in the study and were randomly divided in two groups: experimental (n=9) and control group (n=9). Subjects in the acute exercise group performed plyometric trainings consist of scissor jump, lateral hop, box jump, diagonal hop, power skipping, and speed skipping. Subjects' blood samples were taken before and after training in order to measurement IL-6 and BDNF levels. The levels of IL-6 and BDNF were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Between group differences and within group differences were analyzed through independent t-test and dependent t-test, respectively, using SPSS 16 software. The level of significance was considered P<0.05. Results: The levels of IL-6 after plyometric trainings significantly increased comparing with the control group, but significant changes wasn&rsquo;t observed in BDNF concentrations. Conclusion: Acute plyometric training did not have any effects on the serum level of BDNF as to the short period of training. However, the significant rise of IL-6 was attributed to the subjects' lack of physical fitness. Correspondence: Abuzar Mohammadimofrad, PhD Student. Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Shahid Chamran University. Ahvaz, Iran Tel:+98 9364154977 Email: [email protected]