Interval training review found selective changes in exercise-related proteins
A systematic review found tentative differences in selected exercise-related proteins, while results for several other substances remained inconclusive.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Acute high-intensity interval training appeared to produce larger changes in BDNF and VEGF concentrations than lower-intensity exercise or no exercise. Adiponectin responses were reported mainly among participants with overweight or obesity. These are findings about measured substances; the abstract does not establish whether the changes improved health or physical performance.
Evidence in older adults was limited. This abstract-based summary cannot assess the magnitude or consistency of responses because the abstract supplies neither pooled effect estimates nor detailed exercise protocols.
What researchers found
BDNF and VEGF concentrations
Acute response after high-intensity interval training versus lower-intensity exercise or no exercise; exact sampling times and numerical effect estimates are not reported in the abstract.
What the review examined
The researchers examined substances described as exerkines: proteins released in relation to exercise. Included studies addressed acute effects, longer-term training effects, or both, spanning different forms of exercise exposure and measurement.
Where evidence was inconclusive
The review found no definitive pattern for IGF-1, irisin, cortisol, or interleukins. Its suggestion of stronger responses for selected proteins is therefore tentative and does not describe a consistent response across every substance examined.
The original publication
Acute and chronic effects of high-intensity interval training on selected exerkine secretion in health, disease, and aging: a systematic review.
Jost Z, Rozynkowska A, Głąb M et al.
Front Physiol · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41659923
- Record checked
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