The Effect of Eight Weeks of High-intensity Interval Training on Lipoprotein-associated Phospholipase A2 and Lipid Profile in a Male Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) causes hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and dyslipidemia, which are all risk factors for atherosclerosis. Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) has been recognized as an indicator of atherosclerosis due to its role in vessel inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on serum levels of Lp-PLA2 and lipid profile in rats with T2D. Materials and Methods: Fifteen male Wistar rats (8-10 weeks, 220±20 grams) were randomized into three groups of healthy control (n=5), diabetic (n=5), and diabetic with HIIT (n=5). T2D was induced through intraperitoneal injection of Nicotine Amid and STZ. The training group performed eight weeks of HIIT consisting of high (80-90% Vo2max) and low (40-50% Vo2max) intensity two-minute intervals. Serum levels of Lp-PLA2 and lipid profile were assessed 48 hours after the last training session. Results: Lp-PLA2 (32%, P=0.025), triglycerides (47%, P<0.001), cholesterol (45%, P<0.001), insulin (72%, P<0.001), low density lipoprotein (LDL) (76%, P<0.001), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) (47%, P<0.001), glucose (56%, P=0.029), and insulin resistance (100%, P=0.002) were all significantly lower in the training group than in the diabetic group. However, increased serum levels of high density lipoprotein in the training group was not meaningful (P=0.138). Moreover, Lp-PLA2 was highly correlated with LDL, VLDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Conclusion: HIIT can attenuate the negative effects of T2D on the onset and progression of pathways involved in atherosclerosis by reducing serum levels of Lp-PLA2 and improving lipid profile.