Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
2 Department of Exercise Physiology, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd Branch, Borujerd, Iran.
3 Department of Sports Sciences, Faculty of human Sciences, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran.
Abstract
Purpose: Aging is accompanied by progressive mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress, particularly within the hippocampus, a brain region highly vulnerable to metabolic impairment and redox imbalance. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), a time-efficient exercise modality known to stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, may offer complementary neuroprotective benefits. This study examined the synergistic effects of curcumin supplementation and HIIT on mitochondrial antioxidant enzymes in the hippocampus of aged rats. Method: Thirty-two male Wistar rats (22–24 months) were randomly assigned to four groups: Control, Curcumin (100 mg/kg/day), HIIT, and Curcumin + HIIT. The 8-week HIIT protocol consisted of treadmill-based intervals performed five days per week, while hippocampal mitochondrial fractions were analyzed for superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Oxidative stress markers, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduced glutathione (GSH), were also quantified. Results: Both curcumin and HIIT independently increased SOD2, CAT, and GPx activities (p < 0.01), but the combined intervention produced significantly greater enhancements across all enzyme systems (p < 0.001). ROS and MDA levels were markedly reduced in the Curcumin + HIIT group compared with all other groups (p < 0.001), while GSH content increased by more than 100% relative to controls. Effect sizes were large for all mitochondrial and oxidative stress outcomes, indicating robust physiological adaptation. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that curcumin supplementation synergistically enhances the mitochondrial antioxidant and redox benefits of HIIT in the aging hippocampus. Integrating targeted nutraceuticals with structured high-intensity exercise may represent a promising strategy for mitigating age-related oxidative dysfunction and supporting long-term brain health.
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