Aerobic Interval Training Improves Mitochondrial Quality and Biogenesis of Circulating Lymphocytes in Sedentary Men

Abstract

Mitochondrial quality and biogenesis are important in the regulation of lymphocyte function. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobic interval (AIT) and moderate continuous training (MCT) on mitochondrial quality and biogenesis of circulating lymphocytes. Twenty‐four sedentary males were randomized to perform either aerobic interval training (AIT; 3‐minute intervals at 40% and 80%VO2max, n=12) or moderate continuous training (MCT; sustained 60%VO2max, n=12) for 30 minutes/day, 5 days/week for 6 weeks. At rest and immediately after hypoxic exercise test (HE, 100W under 12%O2 for 30 min), the mitochondrial count, complex IV/II ratio, membrane potential, and matrix oxidant burden in lymphocytes were measured by flow cytometry. The experimental results demonstrated that acute HE declined lymphocyte mitochondrial membrane potential while increasing matrix oxidant burden before the AIT or MCT regimen. However, AIT for 6 weeks heightened mitochondrial membrane potential and was accompanied by lowered matrix oxidant burden in lymphocytes, compared to MCT did. Furthermore, AIT rather than MCT significantly increased the ratio of mitochondrial complex IV to II in lymphocytes. Hence, we conclude that AIT is superior to MCT for improving mitochondrial quality and biogenesis of circulating lymphocytes.