Effect of Aerobic Exercises on Reduced and Oxidized Glutathione in Aortic Endothelial Cells of Rats Exposed to Arsenic

Background and Aim: Arsenic is an environmental pollutant that can damage tissue by producing free radicals. However, regular aerobic exercise is essential in enhancing antioxidant defense and resistance to oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of aerobic exercise on reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and aortic endothelial cells of of heart tissue in rats exposed to arsenic. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 24 male Wistar rats with a weight ranged 220-240 g and a mean age of 6-8 weeks were divided into 3 groups of 8: healthy control, toxic control, and toxic aerobic exercise. Rats receiving arsenic were prescribed 25 ppm arsenic daily in oral water for 8 weeks. The exercise program consisted of 8 weeks of aerobic exercise, five sessions per week with an intensity of 75%-80% of maximum oxygen consumption. Eventually, 24 hours after the last exercise session, the rats were anesthetized and killed, and the target tissue was removed for examination. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistical test and one-way analysis of variance with Tukey post hoc test were used to analyze the findings in SPSS software, version 22 (P≥0.05). Results: Exposure to arsenic significantly reduced GSH and GSSG levels in heart tissue and aortic endothelial cells (P≥0.05). In contrast, aerobic exercise increased GSH and GSSG levels in heart tissue and aortic endothelial cells in arsenic-poisoned rats (P≥0.05). Conclusion: Aerobic exercise effectively reduces oxidative stress and increases antioxidant defense against arsenic toxicity in heart disorders.