The impact of HIIT and plasma injection on skeletal muscle morphology in aged rats: Insights into age-related muscle remodeling.

BACKGROUND

The current study explored the impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and the administration of post-exercise plasma from young-either trained or sedentary-rats on skeletal muscle morphology and circulating irisin levels in aged rats.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the effects of HIIT and plasma from both sedentary and trained young rats on skeletal muscle morphology, strength, and circulating irisin levels in aged rats.

METHODS

Thirty-five aged male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: HIIT, plasma from trained young rats (PT), plasma from sedentary young rats (PC), Control Group (CT), and saline (S). Interventions lasted six weeks; outcome measures included body weight, grip strength, plasma irisin, and muscle histology.

RESULTS

Both HIIT and PT significantly increased plasma irisin levels and improved muscle morphology. Plasma interventions reduced body weight; however, grip strength changes were not significant.

CONCLUSION

HIIT and plasma from young trained rats may offer protective or restorative benefits against sarcopenia. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of combining or alternating exercise and plasma-based strategies in elderly populations.