Individualized aerobic session modulates key metabolic genes in liver and muscle of male offspring from obese dams

Abstract Objective: Exercise interventions can improve parameters in offspring predisposed to metabolic issues. In this study, we investigate whether acute aerobic exercise in offspring can improve metabolism via miRNA modulation in mice programmed by maternal obesity. Materials and methods: Female Swiss mice fed either a standard chow (C) or a high-fat diet (HF) during gestation and lactation were mated with C male mice. Offspring fed the C diet underwent swimming exercise protocols, consisting of water adaptation (14 days), a lactate minimum test, and an aerobic intensity exercise session or no exercise at 84 days of age. Results: Offspring of obese dams (OHF) exhibited increased hepatic glycogen and triglyceride compared to offspring of control dams (OC). However, in offspring of obese dams subjected to an individualized aerobic session (OHF-E), these parameters did not differed from the other groups. Hepatic gene expression analysis showed that miR-122 was upregulated in OHF-E, inversely to Agpat levels. Additionally, OHF exhibited higher miR-370 and lower Cpt1a levels; exercise restored miR-370 and elevated Cpt1a levels in OHF-E. Regarding muscle tissue, exercise reduced Ptp1b expression in OHF-E and increased Hif1a and Pparg, despite no changes observed in miR-206 levels. Conclusion: A single session of exercise significantly affected miRNA and transcript levels related to hepatic lipid and muscle glucose metabolism, suggesting that even one bout of exercise can benefit offspring in the context of maternal metabolic programming. This highlights tissue responsiveness and adaptive capacity, warranting further investigation into its potential as a long-term, non-pharmacological intervention.