Effect of moderate exercise and vitamin D3 on adipose tissue SIRT1 Protein in obese rats

Abstract

Aims: Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease affecting almost all physiological functions of the body leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The increased prevalence of obesity has been attributed to several risk factors that contribute to several metabolic dysfunctions. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of moderate exercise and vitamin D3 on adipose tissue SIRT1 protein level in obese rats. Material and Methods: The study was carried out on 40 adult male Wister albino rats, divided into Group 1 (control group): 8 rats received a standard rat diet for 12 weeks and Group 2 (obese group): 32 rats received a high fat diet (HFD) for 4 weeks. Group 2 was further subdivided into 4 subgroups each of 8 rats; (a) Control sedentary group (b) Exercise group (c) Vitamin D3 supplement group (d) Exercise plus vitamin D3 supplement group. At the end of 12 weeks, the anthropometric index and adipose tissue SIRT1 protein by ELISA were measured. Results: HFD results in abnormal anthropometric data and a significant reduction of SIRT1 protein in adipose tissue. In addition to elevation of SIRT1 protein in combined treatment, there was a negative correlation between SIRT1 protein and adiposity index. Discussion: The combination of VD and exercise improved significantly anthropometric parameters and increased adipose tissue SIRT1 protein.