The effect of two training models on the MST1 and MAFbx genes expression in the Plantaris muscle and behavioral tests of male Wistar rats before decreased physical activity in the form of Spinal Nerve Ligation

Neuromuscular dysfunction along with reduced physical activity has significant consequences on muscle function. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of resistance and combined training on the MST1 and MAFbx genes expression in Plantaris muscle and behavioral tests in male Wistar rats before decreased physical activity in the form of spinal cord ligation (SNL).twenty four 8-week-old male rats with the mean weight of 250± 20 grams were randomly devided into 3 groups: 1) Sham-Spinal Nerve Ligation (Sham-SNL), 2) Resistance Training-Spinal Nerve Ligation (SNL-S), 3) Combined training-Spinal Nerve Ligation (SNL-CO). In all three groups, three branches of the sciatic nerve of rats were tightly tied after the end of training protocol. The duration of the SNL protocol was 4 weeks. At the end of the protocol, Plantaris muscle was extracted. Real-Time PCR method was used to measure the mRNA expression of the genes. MST1 and MAFbx gene expression in the Sham-SNL group was non-significantly higher than the training groups (P <0.05). On the other hand, the results of one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests showed that there is a significant difference in thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia test between Sham-SNL group and training groups (P <0.05). Considering the significant change of behavioral tests in the sham group compared to the training groups, it can be claimed that resistance and combination training can be useful for improving neuropathic pain.