Predictive Factors for Changes in Serum Irisin Concentrations after Different Exercise Interventions
Tong Chen1,2, Zhuang-Zhuang Gu3, Zihong He1
1China Institute of Sport Science, Comprehensive Experimental Center, China, Beijing.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|July 10, 2026
Summary
Exercise significantly increases irisin levels, but responses vary individually. Baseline irisin, VO₂max, genetics (FNDC5 rs16835198), and exercise type predict these changes, enabling personalized exercise prescriptions.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Irisin, a myokine, plays a role in energy metabolism and has shown potential therapeutic benefits.
- Interindividual variability in irisin response to exercise is significant, necessitating identification of predictive factors.
- Understanding predictors of irisin response can inform personalized exercise prescriptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare serum irisin concentration changes across different exercise protocols (Hill, Running, Cycling, Combined) versus a control group.
- To identify phenotypic and genetic predictors of irisin response to exercise.
- To develop a predictive model for irisin response to guide precise exercise prescription.
Main Methods:
- 289 sedentary adults underwent 16 weeks of different exercise interventions or a control period.
- Serum irisin, VO₂max, and lipid profiles were measured pre- and post-intervention.
- FNDC5 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs16835198 genotyping was performed.
Main Results:
- Serum irisin levels increased significantly post-exercise overall, with substantial interindividual variability.
- Hill and Combined training protocols showed the most significant irisin increases.
- Baseline irisin, VO₂max, exercise protocol, and FNDC5 rs16835198 genotype (TT associated with greater response) were significant predictors, explaining 27.1% of the variance in irisin response.
Conclusions:
- Exercise-induced irisin elevation is highly variable among individuals.
- Baseline irisin concentration, cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂max), specific exercise protocols, and FNDC5 genotype are key predictors of irisin response.
- These findings support the development of precision exercise prescriptions tailored to individual irisin responses.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:26Exercise Stress Test
Introduction
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, with aerobic exercises being particularly effective. According to the American Heart Association, 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic exercise per week is recommended for a healthy heart. Aerobic activities may include brisk walking, running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming, ideally performed three to five times per week.
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
01:30Factors Influencing Heart Rate
The heart rate, or pulse rate, is a vital indicator of cardiovascular health. It reflects the number of times the heart beats per minute. Various physiological and environmental factors influence heart rate, increasing or decreasing cardiac output. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing heart function and identifying potential health issues.
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...