8-week Combined Exercise Protocol Promote Health and Cardiovascular Benefits in Obese Women by Epigenetic Modifications: a Prospective Study

Abstract Background: It is known that obesity can be affected by genetic and epigenetic alterations, however little is known about the DNA methylation markers related to health promotion interventions aiming weigh loss. This study explored the effects of an 8-week integrated strength and aerobic training protocol on the DNA methylation patterns in obese women. Methods: 13 women with a BMI of 33±2 kg/m², aged 34±5 years, underwent evaluation of body composition, waist circumference, physical performance (VO2max), and peripheral blood collection for DNA methylation analysis (EPIC Beadchip Illumina) before and after eight weeks of combined physical training intervention (3 times/week, 55 minutes/session, 70-90% of max HR). Results: The intervention yielded noteworthy clinical enhancements, encompassing diminished waist circumference, fat mass, and increased VO2 max (p<0.05). In DNA methylation, we identified 16 Differentially Methylated Regions (DMRs) encompassing 103 CpG sites. Most of these regions were mainly located in promoters’ regions (TSS1500 and TSS200). Among the identified DMRs, 8 exhibited hypomethylation, while the remaining 8 showed hypermethylation after exercise protocol. Enrichment analysis unveiled pathways linked to cardiac, immune, and thermogenic functions. Conclusion: Combined physical training can promote modifications in the DNA methylation profile at CpG sites in genes involved in energy metabolism pathways, increase physical performance, and reduce body fat and waist circumference. Regardless of weight loss, the exercise protocol may promote protection against cardiovascular diseases through epigenetic modifications. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NTC 03119350).