UCP2 expression is negatively correlated with and body fat mass after combined physical training: a pilot study

Physical training increases thermogenesis by enhancing UCP2 expression and energy expenditure. Mitochondrial thermogenesis relies on UCP2 gene expression, which can be low in the obese. Therefore, the objective of this pilot study was to evaluate energy expenditure and UCP2 gene expression from obese women before and after eight weeks of combined physical training. Nine obese women (body mass index 32 ± 3 kg/m2, 35 ± 5 years old) were submitted to combined physical training (strength and aerobic exercises). All subjects were paired and evaluated (before and after training) for body composition, white adipose tissue UCP2 gene expression, resting energy expenditure, and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max). The combined physical training increased resting energy expenditure (32%, p   0.05). After the intervention, UCP2 expression and body fat mass were negatively correlated (r = − 0.746, p < 0.05). This data suggests that combined physical training enhances thermogenesis in obese women by UCP2 independent way. Also, higher UCP2 gene expression was associated with lower fat mass.