OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effects of aerobic training on adipokine concentrations in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

120 women, including 60 with PCOS and 60 without PCOS, were divided into six groups (n = 20) based on body fat percentages of 22%-27%, 28%-32%, and 33%-37%. All groups were submitted the same evaluations before and after 16 weeks of aerobic training. These included anthropometric and hemodynamic analyses, cardiopulmonary tests, and laboratory tests. Two-way analysis of variance was performed to evaluate the differences between women with and without PCOS, effect of the body fat percentage, and effect of aerobic training.

RESULTS

Body fat and PCOS were associated with high values of blood glucose, insulin, and testosterone. Body fat also reduced adiponectin levels and increased leptin, tumor necrosis factoralpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). In contrast, the PCOS increased only TNF-α and IL-6 levels. In the PCOS group, aerobic training reduced insulin, triglycerides, leptin, and IL-6 levels. It also promoted an increase in adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein levels. However, aerobic training did not alter TNF-α concentrations.

CONCLUSION

The body fat potentiates metabolic impairments that may be harmful to women with PCOS. Aerobic training appears to promote an important beneficial effect on the metabolic regulation of adipokines, except TNF-α.