High intensity interval training and Eryngium billardieri extract consumption on MMP-2 gene expression of visceral fat in rats with metabolic syndrome

Background: Metabolic syndrome includes a set of metabolic disorders that expose the patient to cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of High intensity interval training and Eryngium billardieri extract consumption on the expression of visceral fat matrix metalloproteinase-2 gene and insulin resistance in rats with metabolic syndrome. Methods: In this experimental study, 32 male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-250 g were randomly divided into 4 groups: 1- Healthy group 2- Metabolic syndrome 3- Metabolic syndrome + Eryngium billardieri 4- Metabolic syndrome + Eryngium billardieri + HIIT. The training protocol was performed on a rodent treadmill for 8 weeks and 5 sessions per week and 125 mg of Eryngium billardieri extract per kilogram of body weight was given by gastric gavage 5 days a week for 8 weeks. At the end of the eighth week, sample of visceral adipose tissue was taken to examine the expression of MMP-2 gene. Animal blood was collected from the heart. ANOVA were used for data analysis using SPSS 23 software at a significant level (p <0.05). Tukey significance test was used to compare significant differences. Results: Eight weeks of intense intermittent exercise with consumption of Eryngium billardieri extract caused a significant decrease in MMP-2 gene levels and glucose and insulin levels in comparison with the metabolic syndrome group (P <0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of the study, it seems that High intensity interval training with the use of Eryngium billardieri extract helps to improve insulin resistance and reduce MMP2.