Changes in retinoic acid receptor status, 5′-deiodinase activity and neuroendocrine response to voluntary wheel running

Little information is available on the involvement of retinoic acid in processes related to physical activity. The aim of this study was to test the hypotheses that long-term voluntary wheel running (1) modifies RARs concentration as well as the expression of RAR subtypes and (2) alters I iodothyronine deiodinase (5′-DI) activity in rat liver. To evaluate relevant mechanisms, hepatic gene expression of specific nuclear receptor coregulators and stress hormone levels in plasma have also been measured. Sprague–Dawley rats were housed either in standard cages or in cages with access to running wheel attached for 3 weeks. RAR maximal binding capacity in the liver was found to be significantly lower while gene expression of RARβ increased in rats exposed to voluntary running compared to that in sedentary controls. Gene expression of RARα, RXRα and RXRβ was found to be unaffected. Voluntary running led to a significant decrease of 5′-DI activity in the liver. No significant changes in the gene expression of specific nuclear receptor coregulators in the liver were observed. Significant elevation of aldosterone while no changes in ACTH and corticosterone concentrations were observed in rats exposed to wheel running compared to those in controls. In conclusion, this study provided first evidence on the reduction of liver RAR concentrations and 5′-DI activity in response to long-term voluntary wheel running. Neuroendocrine mechanisms involved in these changes may include adrenal mineralo- and glucocorticoids.