Daneshvar Medicine

Daneshvar Medicine

Differential Effects of High- and Moderate-Intensity Interval Training on Renal, Hepatic, and Metabolic Markers in Male Wistar Rats

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Ferdowsi university of Mashhad, sport science faculty. Sport physiology department
2 Exercise physiology department, sport sciences faculty, Ferdowsi university of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
3 Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Birjand
4 Professor of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Birjand
5 Ph.D of Biochemistry. Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran
Abstract
Introduction and Aim: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT) are effective approaches for improving metabolic and physiological health; however, the specific effects of different intensities on renal, hepatic, and metabolic indices in healthy models remain unclear. The present study aimed to compare the effects of six weeks of HIIT and MIIT on kidney function, liver enzymes, and metabolic markers in healthy male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Eighteen male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to HIIT, MIIT, or control groups. The training protocol was performed five days per week for six weeks. Blood samples were collected to assess QUICKI, lipid profile, liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), and renal markers (urea, creatinine). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by LSD post hoc test. Results: Significant differences were observed among groups in creatinine (p=0.024), ALP (p=0.001), insulin (p=0.003), and QUICKI (p=0.044). HIIT increased creatinine and QUICKI while reducing insulin compared to control. Both training protocols significantly elevated ALP compared with control. No significant differences were found in urea, glucose, ALT, AST, or lipid profile. Conclusion: HIIT significantly improved insulin sensitivity, reduced insulin levels, and enhanced aerobic capacity in healthy rats without causing renal or hepatic damage. The marked increase in ALP may reflect a functional adaptation. MIIT showed only mild improvements. These findings highlight the superior metabolic benefits of HIIT, even in healthy models, and support its potential as a preventive strategy for maintaining metabolic health.
Keywords


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 02 September 2026