The Effect of Continuous Training on Betatrophin Levels and Lipid Profile in Obese Men

Background and Aim: Many epidemiologic studies have shown alterations in the concentration of betatrophin (ANGPTL8) in metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of continuous exercise on serum betatrophin and lipid levels in obese men. Methods: In this study, 20 obese men were randomly divided into control (n = 10) and exercise (n = 10) groups. Exercise program was performed for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week with intensity of 55 to 85% of maximum heart rate. Serum levels of betatropin, LDL, HDL and TG were measured before and after 8 week training. Results: Eight weeks of continuous training resulted significant decrease in betatrophin, TG, LDL and increase HDL in training group compared to control group. Intergroup analysis of these indices also showed a significant difference between the exercise and control groups. According to the results of the Pearson test, betatrophin levels were positively correlated with TG, LDL, BMI and negative with HDL. Conclusion: Eight weeks of continuous training can lower betatrophin levels in obese people. This change is in line with the change in lipid metabolism. It seems that betatrophin may be a therapeutic target in obesity-related disorders such as dyslipidemia.