Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of resistance training following bone marrow stem cell transplantation, a regenerative approach targeting damaged cardiac tissue, on myocardial oxidative stress markers and left ventricular function in a rat model of myocardial infarction (MI).
Methods: Sixty male Wistar rats (7-8 weeks old) were randomly assigned to six experimental groups (n = 10 per group): healthy control, MI control, sham, stem cell, exercise, and exercise + stem cell. MI was induced by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Stem cells (1x10^6) were injected via the tail vein. The resistance training protocol consisted of climbing sessions performed five days per week for six weeks. Each session included three sets of five repetitions, with a one-minute rest interval between sets. Oxidative stress markers (CAT and MDA) were analyzed biochemically, and left ventricular function was assessed by echocardiography. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test.
Results: MDA levels were significantly increased and CAT levels were decreased in the MI group compared with controls. Resistance training and combined therapy significantly reduced MDA levels; however, changes in CAT levels were not statistically significant. Cardiac output and ejection fraction were significantly improved in the intervention groups compared with the MI group.
Conclusion: Six weeks of resistance training after bone marrow stem cell transplantation effectively reduced oxidative stress and improved left ventricular function in MI rats. This combined approach may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for recovery after myocardial infarction.
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