Comparison of the Effects of Moderate-Intensity Endurance Training and Aphrodit Supplement on Depression, Sexual Function, and Gene Expression of NRF-1, SIRT1, and NGF in Postmenopausal Women

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student, Department of Sports Physiology, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Professor, Department of Sports Physiology, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. (Corresponding Author)

3 Associate Professor, Department of Sports Physiology, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.

4 Associate Professor of midwifery, Community health research center, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.

10.22038/mjms.2026.95881.5296

Abstract

Introduction: Depression and sexual disorders are common problems in postmenopausal women.This study aimed to compare the effects of 12 weeks of moderate-intensity endurance training, Aphrodit supplement, and their combination on depression, sexual function, and the expression of NRF-1, SIRT1, and NGF genes in postmenopausal women.
Methods: In this randomized, semi-experimental, single-blind clinical trial, 100 sedentary postmenopausal women (aged 50–60 years) were divided into four groups of 25: control, aerobic exercise, Aphrodit supplement, and combined intervention. The intervention lasted 12 weeks, involving aerobic exercise (three days per week) and daily consumption of two Aphrodit capsules. Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory and Sabiston Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, as well as biochemical measurements, at pre-test and post-test stages. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) and paired t-tests in SPSS version 24 (P≤0.05).
Results: The combined intervention had a significant effect on reducing depression (P<0.001) and improving sexual function (P<0.001). Mean weight (P=0.001) and body fat percentage (P=0.022) showed significant reductions in the combined group. Furthermore, the expression of NRF-1, SIRT1, and NGF genes, as well as serum levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, increased significantly in the combined group (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The combination of aerobic exercise and Aphrodit supplement, by increasing the expression of SIRT1, NGF, and NRF-1 genes and improving neurotransmitter balance, can be an effective non-pharmacological strategy for improving mental health and biochemical indices in postmenopausal women.

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Main Subjects

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Medical Journal of Mashhad university of Medical Sciences
Volume 69, Issue 5
June 2026
Pages 447-455

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