Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training and Somatotropin Injection on Hepatocyte Apoptosis Markers and Atherogenic Index in Mice with Fatty Liver Disease

Background and purpose: Fatty liver disease and overcoming it is a health concern. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a period of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and somatotropin injection on hepatocyte apoptosis markers and atherogenic index in mice with fatty liver disease. Materials and methods: In this basic experimental study, 21 male mice were randomly divided into three groups (n=7): control (C), exercise (HIIT), Exercise + somatotropin (H-GH). The HITT was performed for eight weeks/ five sessions a week. The speed was 25 meters per minute at the beginning which increased to 70 meters per minute at the end of week eight. The somatropin dosage was 1 mg/kg. Markers, including CK-18, paraoxonase, insulin resistance, ALT/AST ratio, and LDL/HDL were measured. Statistical analysis was carried out using One-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test. Results: CK18 values significantly decreased only in the HIIT group (P=0.01). Paraoxonase levels in both HIIT (P=0.00) and H-GH (P=0.01) groups significantly increased compared to the control group. Between groups changes of HOMA-IR index significantly reduced in the HIIT group (P=0.05) and slightly increased in the H-GH group but was not significant (P=0.36). The ratio of ALT/AST in both HIIT (P=0.02) and H-GH (P=0.03) groups significantly reduced. LDL/HDL ratio showed significant decrease only in the HIIT group (P=0.01). Conclusion: High-intensity interval training produced a more effective response in improving the markers of none alcoholic fatty liver disease than GH. Injection of growth hormone alone can have negative consequences on some indicators of the disease.