The current study investigated whether exercise training could alter plasma concentrations of retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP4) and adiponectin, both adipokines linked to insulin resistance, and whether theses changes would impact whole-body glucose metabolism. For that purpose, the authors evaluated 36 young and 38 middle-aged women who performed 60 minutes of aerobic exercise three times per week for 10 weeks at about 60-80% of their maximal exercise capacity. Study results showed that maximal exercise capacity (VO2 max) increased significantly in both groups after the 10-week training program. Moreover, the exercise program significantly improved insulin sensitivity as reflected by decreases in plasma insulin levels and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance index. Furthermore, adiponectin levels increased in both groups and RBP4 levels decreased, particularly in older women. These findings suggest that the mechanism for the insulin-sensitizing effects of exercise could involve increased adiponectin and reduced RBP4 levels in exercise-trained women.
Documentation centre