Effects of resistance training on kidney morphology of aged ovariectomized rats

With the advancing age, there is an increase of the incidence of chronic renal diseases. However, it is suggested that exercise, as resistance training, is a key factor in positively modulate the kidney structure and function. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the effects of estrogen deprivation and a moderate resistance protocol on the right kidney structure of rats. A total of 32 animals were randomly divided in four groups (n = 8/per group): control group (CG); resistance trained animals (RT); control ovariectomized animals (OvxC); and trained ovariectomized animals (OvxT). Sections of the right kidney were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for morphometry and blood was collected for biochemical analysis. Our results showed that the group submitted to both ovariectomy and resistance training had significant impact on renal corpuscle components (Bowman's space, renal corpuscle area, and visceral layer), and proximal and distal tubules. Additionally, resistance training, with or without estrogen deprivation, increases creatine phosphokinase and decreases ultrasensitive C-reactive protein. In summary, we suggested that moderate resistance training may be a key factor to maintain the kidney structure and function across age. However, future studies are need to corroborate with our findings.