The Effects of Two Different Intensities of Combined Training on C1q/TNF-Related Protein 3 (CTRP3) and Insulin Resistance in Women with Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Background: C1q/TNF-related protein (CTRP3) is a potent anti-inflammatory adipokine with activities, such as reduction of glucose level and inhibition of gluconeogenesis in the liver. However, the effect of exercise training on CTRP3 in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unknown. Objectives: This study was done to investigate the effects of two different intensities of combined training on CTRP3 and insulin resistance in women with NAFLD and compare these two training patterns. Methods: Thirty-three women with NAFLD were randomly divided into three equal groups. Group 1 performed resistance training (RT), along with aerobic interval training (AIT) (2 -5 intervals of four minutes, 70 -75% HRmax), group 2 performed RT along with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) (8-13 intervals of one minute, 85 -95% HRmax), and the control group did not participate in any training. The body composition measurements and blood sampling were carried out before and after 12 weeks of training. Data analysis was performed using repeated-measures ANOVA (alpha <= 0.05). Results: After 12 weeks, the CTRP3 level significantly increased in group 1 compared with the control group (P = 0.01) and group 2 (P < 0.001). The fasting glucose and fasting insulin levels significantly decreased in group 1 compared with the control group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.01, respectively). The insulin resistance index decreased in both group 1 and group 2; however, the difference was not significant compared with the control group (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Combined training (RT + AIT) in the present study increased the level of CTRP3; thus, it is likely that women with NAFLD can benefit from this program as a non-pharmacological adjunct treatment to prevent inflammation and progression of the disease.