Document Type : Original Article
Researcher
Allameh Tabataba'i University, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Department of Exercise Physiology
Ministerial Ethics Committee
1. Title and General Objective:
Investigating the effects of Combined High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT)and Cognitive Training on Serum Levels of Irisin, Estrogen, and BDNF, Gut Microbiota, and Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged Postmenopausal Women
2. Problem Statement and Significance:
Menopause is associated with decreased estrogen levels, cognitive impairments, and metabolic disorders. Non-pharmacological interventions like HIFT and cognitive training may enhance postmenopausal women's health by improving neuro-hormonal pathways and gut microbiota. This study is significant due to its innovative combination of these interventions and simultaneous examination of biochemical and cognitive markers.
3. Methodology:
Thirty postmenopausal women (45-60 years) will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group (combined HIFT and cognitive training for 8 weeks) or a control group. Dependent variables include serum levels of irisin, estrogen, BDNF, gut microbiota composition (Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus), and cognitive function (assessed by MoCA, Stroop, and TMT tests). Data will be analyzed using Repeated Measures ANOVA.
4. Innovation and Applications:
- First study examining the combined effects of HIFT and cognitive training on the estrogen-irisin-BDNF pathway and gut microbiota in postmenopausal women
- Development of targeted exercise programs to improve cognitive health
- Beneficiaries: Sports science specialists, gynecologists, and postmenopausal women themselves