The Effect of Moderate Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) on TNF-α and Fetuin A in Type 2 Diabetic Wistar Rats

Introduction: Hepatokines secreted by the liver play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes, directly influencing glucose and lipid metabolism. Exercise training is recognized as an effective treatment strategy for type 2 diabetes. This study aims to investigate the impact of moderate intensity continuous training (MICT) on the levels of Fetuin-A and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in type 2 diabetic rats. Material Methods: Fifteen male Wistar rats aged between 8 and 10 weeks were randomly assigned to three groups (5 rats in each group): healthy control, diabetic, and training diabetic. Diabetes was induced through intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide and streptozotocin (STZ). The MICT protocol involved eight weeks of continuous running, five days per week, at 55-60% of maximal oxygen consumption. Blood samples were collected 48 hours after the last training session, and serum levels of TNF-α and Fetuin-A were measured. Results: The observed reductions in Fetuin-A, TNF-α, and glucose levels were not statistically significant in the trained group compared to the diabetic group. However, a significant decrease in insulin levels (p=0.002) and insulin resistance (p=0.01) was observed in the trained group compared to the diabetic group. Conclusion: In conclusion, moderate intensity continuous training, as a non-pharmacological intervention, appears to play an effective role in the management of type 2 diabetes by improving insulin resistance and reducing insulin levels.